Take your adventures to the water with the best kayaking experiences in Edmonton!
When we say kayaking is good for the soul, we aren’t kidding.
In Edmonton, though, finding that perfect spot or the right rental to kick-start your adventure can be a challenge.
Today, I’m sharing the best ones, including those hidden spots locals might just want to keep to themselves. Grab a paddle and let’s dive in!
Best Places to Kayak in and around Edmonton
North Saskatchewan River
– Media from kaitlyntress
Location: 9731 Grierson Hill NW
The North Saskatchewan River flows for 48 kilometers through Edmonton, offering a scenic kayaking route right in the city. This stretch is calm and rated as Class 1, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a laid-back paddle.
For kayak access, I’d recommend spots like Terwillegar Park, Laurier Park, and Emily Murphy Park, which are convenient and have plenty of room to launch.
| Pro Tips: Stay aware of rocks and low-hanging branches, especially during spring when the river can be a bit higher. Always check the river conditions. If the flow is above 250 cubic metres per second, it’s best to hold off until it’s calmer. If you’re up for a winter paddle, get ready to navigate around ice and brace for cold conditions. Make sure you’re well-prepared with extra warm layers and the right gear. |
Astotin Lake
– Media from exploreedmonton
Location: Elk Island National Park
Distance from Edmonton: 53-minute drive
Astotin Lake offers a calm, scenic spot, with the quiet waters letting you paddle past islands and perhaps catch sight of different bird species. The lake is home to a variety of birds like the American white pelican, Barrow’s goldeneye, and red-necked grebe.
The surrounding area is set up nicely for a picnic after your paddle, with sheltered tables, fire pits, and washrooms nearby.
| Pro Tips: Be mindful as blue-green algae can appear in the lake, and Parks Canada advises against water contact when it’s present. For rentals or safety tips, the Visitor Centre is your go-to resource for a hassle-free day on the water. Consider staying at the nearby Astotin Lake campground to extend your visit and enjoy the evening scenery. |
Islet Lake
– Media from a._.lesha
Location: Beaver County
Distance from Edmonton: 45-minute drive
Islet Lake offers a peaceful experience with no motorboats and a short walk from the parking lot to the launch area. Once on the water, you can explore the lake’s perimeter and the central islands, with plenty of birdwatching opportunities along the way.
The north end has smaller islands and calm bays perfect for paddling, while the south end offers views of nearby lakefront homes. The water is usually calm but murky in spots, and leeches can be present.
| Pro Tips: Watch out for submerged logs, especially near the large island. Stay clear of the cattails to avoid disturbing birds. If your kayak is on the heavier side, a kayak cart will be useful for carrying it down the small hill to the launch area. |
Telford Lake
– Media from autoxr22
Location: Leduc, Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 38-minute drive
Telford Lake offers sheltered waters, making it a good place for beginners to try out kayaking. The lake stretches 3 km long, and its narrow shape makes it feel calm and easy to navigate.
The lake provides a safe environment with less current. It’s a well-used area, often offering the chance to enjoy a peaceful paddle while also taking in the surrounding views.
| Pro Tips: If you’re interested in something different, check out the dragon boat races in the summer for a fun, community event. Switch from kayaking to exploring the 8.2-kilometre path around the lake by bike or on foot for a scenic walk or cycle. |
Big Lake & Sturgeon River
– Media from edmontonkayaks
Location: Sturgeon County, AB
Distance from Edmonton: 23-minute drive
Big Lake offers a quiet and scenic environment with its winding creeks and marshes. The lake’s terrain can vary, with narrow channels and changing water levels that require attention.
While paddling, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, spotting bird species like Franklin’s gulls and ospreys. You might also spot fish such as northern pike and walleye in the shallow waters, with the occasional heron or osprey overhead.
| Pro Tips: Early mornings offer calm waters and fewer boaters. Wear water shoes for better footing in rocky or muddy areas. For easy access to the river, park at the Lois Hole Provincial Park day-use area off Ray Gibbon Drive or launch near St. Albert. |
Pigeon Lake
– Media from mikiw2004
Location: Pigeon Lake Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-19-minute drive
Pigeon Lake offers plenty of water to explore, though it’s fairly shallow, averaging about 22 feet deep. The depth increases gradually as you paddle out, reaching around 30 feet at the lake’s deepest points.
The lake has a concrete boat launch and floating dock, which are both open for public use. Additionally, the gravel road leading to the ramp is well-maintained, and the ramp itself is in good condition, making it easy to get your boat in and out.
| Pro Tips: Watch the weather closely, as it can change quickly, especially in the afternoon. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including walleye and northern pike. For fishing, the canal on the west side is a good spot to try. |
Pembina River
– Media from shaylazabok
Location: Pembina River Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-11-minute drive
Pembina River is a great spot for whitewater kayaking, with Class II rapids between the bridge near Lobstick River and Pembina River Provincial Park. The section offers a fun, full-day adventure with scenic views of the surrounding forests and wildlife.
Along with kayaking, the area provides excellent hiking opportunities through forests of spruce, poplar, and willow. It’s also a great spot for wildlife viewing, where you might spot deer, moose, and occasionally black bears.
| Pro Tip: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, including moose and bears, for your safety and theirs. |
Lac Ste. Anne
– Media from missi.bee
Location: Lac Ste. Anne County, Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 56-minute drive
Lac Ste. Anne offers plenty of space for kayaking, with its 54-square-kilometre area and peaceful waters. There are several boat launches, making it easy to get started on the lake.
The lake’s islands, such as Farming Island and Horse Island, are great for exploring by kayak. Paddling along the shore or through the narrows provides a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife in a relaxed setting.
| Pro Tips: Be mindful of boat traffic, particularly in areas closer to shore or near launch points. It’s best to launch your paddleboard from one of the floating docks or boat launches, as the shoreline can be weedy and difficult to navigate. |
Wabamun Lake
– Media from wabamunlake
Location: Parkland County, AB
Distance from Edmonton: 49-minute drive
Wabamun Lake is a popular spot for kayaking, with several launch points around its shoreline. The lake offers plenty of space for kayakers to stay clear of motorboat traffic, making it a peaceful place for paddling and fishing.
With species like northern pike, walleye, and perch, it’s also a great spot for kayak fishing. While some areas have dense vegetation along the shore, there are still plenty of spots where you can enjoy a quiet day on the water.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early to enjoy calm waters and avoid motorboat traffic, especially in the morning. It’s the best time for peaceful paddling and fishing. |
Sylvan Lake
– Media from visitsylvanlake
Location: Central Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-55-minute drive
Sylvan Lake features a scenic shoreline framed by poplar trees that turn golden in the autumn. The lake has been a go-to destination for kayakers since the ’90s, offering convenient amenities such as lakeside ice cream parlours, waterparks, and mini-golf.
Taking your kayak out on the lake lets you enjoy the calm waters and discover the peaceful bays, home to abundant wildlife. If you’re in need of equipment, local rental shops have everything from kayaks to snorkeling and diving gear.
| Pro Tip: Head to Lakefront Park for easy access, with parking just steps from the beach. Stick close to the shoreline, as the conditions can shift unexpectedly. |
Gull Lake
– Media from jonbontje
Location: Aspen Beach Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-30-minute drive
Gull Lake is a tranquil spot for kayaking, offering several beaches where you can easily launch your kayak. In the summer, the area comes alive with camping opportunities and places to stay overnight, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Kayakers new to the sport can start off close to shore, while those with more experience can explore the surrounding beaches when the water is calm. The peaceful setting makes it an ideal location for all skill levels.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to visit Gull Lake Honey Company for a taste of local honey and unique treats. Don’t forget to explore the artisan gift shop and soak in the beautiful views of the nearby bison ranch while you’re there! |
Kayak Rentals in Edmonton
Get Fit Rentals
Website: https://getfitrentals.ca/
Address: 11042 160a St NW
Phone: +1 780-667-0391
Get Fit Rentals offers inflatable kayaks suitable for one or two people, making them a versatile option for those looking to explore the water.
Rentals start at $60 per day, with weekend rates at $125, long weekends at $165, and weekly rentals for $260. Each rental includes a paddle, fin, and manual pump, and you can also add a lifejacket for $5 per day.
| Pro Tips: Make sure to check the weight limit (400 lbs) before booking for two people. Late returns will incur double the first day’s rate per day. |
Totem Outdoor Outfitters Ltd
– Media from totemoutfitters
Website: https://totemoutfitters.ca/
Address: 7430 99 St NW
Phone: +1 780 432 1223
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Totem Outdoor Outfitters offers kayak rentals, including models like the Old Town Vapor 10, Jackson Journey, Necky Looksha, and the Necky Manitou II Tandem. Rentals come with essential gear such as paddles, PFDs, and transport accessories.
The process is straightforward: you’ll need a credit card for the deposit, and a 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. Rates start at $90 for 3 weekdays, with weekend rentals from $110, plus an additional $30 per extra day.
| Pro Tips: Plan your return carefully; rentals must be returned by 5 PM on weekdays and 4 PM on Saturdays. Make sure to use a Visa or Mastercard credit card for the deposit, as debit cards aren’t accepted. Clean your equipment before returning it to avoid extra cleaning fees. |
Ocean Sports
– Media from ocean_sports_
Website: https://oceansports.ca/
Address: 9833 63 Ave NW
Phone: +1 780 432 1904
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Ocean Sports has been offering quality watersport gear since 1975, including kayaks, paddle boards, and wetsuits. They also offer a rental-to-purchase incentive, where 100% of the rental cost is applied to your purchase if bought within 7 days.
Rentals are available for daily or weekly use, with inflatable kayaks (single or tandem) priced at $50 per day and $250 per week.
| Pro Tips: If you’re planning to rent for a longer period, the weekly rental rates can offer better value. If you change your mind, cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance, or you’ll be charged for one day’s rental. |
Fusion World Rentals
– Media from fusion_world_rentals
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@Kayaks.rental/
Address: 55307 Range Rd 251, Sturgeon County
Phone: +1 587 783 7380
Operating Hours: Open daily – 9 AM to 9 PM
Fusion World Rentals offers a range of options for all ages, with delivery and pick-up included, so you can focus on your adventure.
Booking is simple through their website, with rentals available in 2-hour or 4-hour slots, and each reservation includes life jackets and paddles. For longer rentals, curbside pick-up is available, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Rentals start at $35 per kayak for 2 hours, and you can also request extra time on the water if needed.
| Pro Tip: If picking up your equipment, make sure your vehicle can accommodate the kayak’s size, typically 8 ft or 10 ft models. |
Rural River Rentals
– Media from ruralrivers
Website: https://www.ruralrivers.com/
Address: 26105 Meadowview Dr, Sturgeon County
Phone: +1 780 298 6343
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 8 PM
Rural River Rentals Ltd. offers a range of kayaks starting at $25 for a 24-hour rental of the Pelican Solo Youth. For adults, options like the Pelican Summit 100 and Magna start at $65 per day, with additional rental durations available.
Each rental includes paddles, lifejackets, bilge pumps, and more, with assistance provided for loading and unloading. Kayaks are available in different sizes, with weight capacities ranging from 100 lbs for youth kayaks to 500 lbs for tandem models.
| Pro Tip: You’re welcome to bring food and drinks on your kayak, but it’s best to skip nuts in case the next user has allergies. Don’t forget to clean up your rubbish to keep the area tidy. |
Kayak Lessons in Edmonton
AQ Outdoors
– Media from aqoutdoors
Website: https://aqoutdoors.com/
Address: 3825 99 St NW
Phone: +1 780 463 4892
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
AQ Outdoors, previously known as Aquabatics, has been delivering educational courses and a range of products since 2009.
They offer beginner courses like the $99.95 Quick Start and $189.95 Quick Start Plus to build paddling skills in flatwater and rivers. The $99.95 Basic Kayak Safety and Skills course teaches key safety and rescue techniques.
| Pro Tip: Consider booking a custom program to tailor your kayaking experience for your group, business, or personal needs. This flexible option allows you to design a session that fits your goals. |
Edmonton Whitewater Paddlers
– Media from paddleewp
Website: https://www.paddleewp.ca/
Edmonton Whitewater Paddlers offers kayak lessons with membership, giving access to their facilities and equipment.
Membership also includes lessons at Kinsmen Sports Centre and Rundle Park, along with participation in events and competitions.
For instance, the Introduction to Kayaking course is $180, plus a $35 membership. Youth programs like Kids in Kayak are $100, plus a $20 membership, providing an excellent foundation for young paddlers.
| Pro Tip: Families can save 20% on membership fees, so be sure to select the correct number of youth and adult members when signing up to take advantage of the discount. |