Paddle away with the best canoeing experiences in Edmonton!
Canoeing in Edmonton has become my go-to way to escape the hustle and bustle. There’s something so refreshing about gliding along the water, whether it’s the serene North Saskatchewan River or underrated lakes.
Renting a canoe is easy, and you don’t need to be an expert to get started (I’ve been there!) Plus, with plenty of canoeing lessons available, there’s always a chance to level up your skills.
But if you’re not sure where to start, I have some recommendations. Now grab a paddle and make a splash. You won’t regret it!
Best Places to Canoe in and around Edmonton
Astotin Lake
– Media from exploreedmonton
Location: Elk Island National Park
Distance from Edmonton: 53-minute drive
Astotin Lake provides a tranquil atmosphere that’s great for a relaxed canoe trip. As I paddled around the islands, I had the chance to spot several bird species, including the American white pelican, Barrow’s goldeneye, and red-necked grebe.
Afterwards, I headed to the picnic area to relax. The sheltered tables, fire pits, and nearby washrooms made it easy to unwind and enjoy the quiet, beautiful setting.
| Pro Tips: Keep in mind that blue-green algae can sometimes show up in the lake, and Parks Canada recommends avoiding water contact if it’s present. For rentals or safety advice, the Visitor Centre is a helpful stop to ensure your time on the water goes smoothly. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at the nearby Astotin Lake campground and soaking in the evening views. |
Big Lake & Sturgeon River
– Media from thegoldenlifeofzoe
Location: Sturgeon County, AB
Distance from Edmonton: 23-minute drive
Big Lake is known for its calm waters and winding marshes, making it a great spot for canoeing. The lake features narrow channels and fluctuating water levels, which can require careful navigation.
While paddling, I was able to spot a few wildlife species, including Franklin’s gulls, ospreys, and herons. The shallow waters also seemed to be teeming with northern pike and walleye, making it clear that the lake has a rich and diverse ecosystem.
| Pro Tips: Start your paddle early in the morning to enjoy smooth waters and a quieter experience. Slip on water shoes to navigate rocky or muddy spots with confidence. Park at the Lois Hole Provincial Park day-use area off Ray Gibbon Drive or use the St. Albert launch for quick river access. |
Gull Lake
– Media from fr_zhao
Location: Aspen Beach Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-30-minute drive
Gull Lake is a peaceful place for canoeing, with plenty of beaches where you can easily launch your canoe. During summer, I make sure to visit, as it’s a great spot for camping, and there are places to stay overnight, making it the perfect place to unwind in nature.
For those new to canoeing, it’s easy to stick close to shore, but if you’re more experienced, you can explore the nearby beaches when the water’s calm. The quiet atmosphere makes it a good spot for paddlers of all levels.
| Pro Tip: Make a stop at Gull Lake Honey Company to sample some delicious local honey and pick up some unique treats. While you’re there, take time to explore the artisan gift shop and enjoy the stunning views of the nearby bison ranch. |
Islet Lake
– Media from algonquinlakes
Location: Beaver County
Distance from Edmonton: 45-minute drive
Islet Lake is known for its motor-free waters and the convenience of a short walk from the car park to the launch site. Once you’re out on the lake, you can paddle around the shoreline and visit the central islands, where you might spot a variety of birds.
The northern part of the lake features smaller islands and quiet bays, while the southern end offers glimpses of nearby lakeside homes. The water is generally still, though some areas can be murky, and leeches are something to be mindful of.
| Pro Tips: Be cautious of submerged logs, particularly around the large island. Keep an eye out and steer clear.Respect the wildlife by staying away from the cattails, as this helps avoid disturbing the birds. If you have a heavier canoe, use a canoe cart to make it easier to transport down the small hill to the launch area. |
Lac Ste. Anne
– Media from missi.bee
Location: Lac Ste. Anne County, Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 56-minute drive
Lac Ste. Anne is a great spot for canoeing, offering plenty of space with its 54-square-kilometre area and calm waters. Multiple boat launches around the lake make it easy to get started and enjoy a day on the water.
I especially enjoyed exploring the lake’s islands, like Farming Island and Horse Island. Paddling along the shore or through the narrows gave me the chance to soak in the natural beauty and spot some wildlife in such a peaceful setting.
| Pro Tips: Watch out for boat traffic, especially near the shore or around launch points. For a smoother experience, it’s recommended to launch your paddleboard from one of the floating docks or boat launches, as the shoreline can be weedy and tricky to navigate. |
North Saskatchewan River
– Media from davidthompsoncountry
Location: 9731 Grierson Hill NW
The North Saskatchewan River runs for 48 kilometres through Edmonton, providing a peaceful canoe route right in the city. The water is calm and rated as Class 1, which makes it a great choice if you’re a beginner or just after a relaxed paddle.
I found that spots like Terwillegar Park, Laurier Park, and Emily Murphy Park are ideal for accessing the river. They’re easy to get to and offer plenty of space for launching your canoe.
| Pro Tips: Keep an eye out for rocks and low-hanging branches, particularly in spring when the river level can rise. It’s a good idea to always check the river conditions before heading out. If the flow is over 250 cubic metres per second, it’s safer to wait for calmer waters. If you’re considering a winter paddle, be prepared for ice and chilly temperatures. Layer up with extra warmth and make sure you have the right gear to stay comfortable and safe on the water. |
Pembina River
– Media from albertanfox
Location: Pembina River Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-11-minute drive
I spent a day at Pembina River, canoeing through the Class II rapids between the bridge near Lobstick River and Pembina River Provincial Park. It was a thrilling ride, with scenic views of lush forests and plenty of wildlife along the way.
In addition to canoeing, the area also offers great hiking trails winding through spruce, poplar, and willow trees. I had the chance to spot a few deer and moose and even came across some bear tracks!
| Pro Tip: Be sure to keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter, including moose and bears. |
Pigeon Lake
Location: Pigeon Lake Provincial Park
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-19-minute drive
I headed out to Pigeon Lake, where there’s lots of water to explore, though it’s pretty shallow, averaging about 22 feet deep. As I paddled further out, the depth slowly increased, reaching about 30 feet at its deepest points.
The lake has a concrete boat launch and a floating dock, both available for public use. The gravel road leading to the ramp is well-maintained, and the ramp itself is in good condition, making it easy to launch and retrieve my canoe.
| Pro Tips: Keep an eye on the weather, as it can shift quickly, particularly in the afternoon. If you’re into fishing, head to the canal on the west side of the lake. It’s a great spot for catching walleye and northern pike! |
Sylvan Lake
– Media from visitsylvanlake
Location: Central Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-55-minute drive
Sylvan Lake is a beautiful spot, with its shoreline framed by poplar trees that turn golden in the autumn. It’s been a favourite destination for canoeing since the ’90s, and it features lakeside ice cream parlours, waterparks, and mini-golf for a fun day out.
Paddling my canoe on the lake was a great way to soak in the calm waters and explore the tranquil bays, which are teeming with wildlife. If you don’t have your own gear, there are local rental shops offering everything you could need.
| Pro Tip: Head to Lakefront Park for quick access, with parking only a short walk from the beach. Stay close to the shoreline. The conditions can change fast, and you’ll want to be prepared. |
Telford Lake
– Media from jnsnick
Location: Leduc, Alberta
Distance from Edmonton: 38-minute drive
Telford Lake is a great spot if you’re new to canoeing. The waters are calm and sheltered, which made it easy for me to get the hang of paddling. At 3 km long, the lake has a narrow shape that helps keep things peaceful and manageable.
What I liked most was the lack of strong currents, making it a safe and relaxing place to paddle. Even though it’s a popular spot, I found it to be a nice escape, with lovely views to enjoy as I paddled along.
| Pro Tips: For a change of pace, try catching the dragon boat races in the summer. They’re a fun, community-driven event you won’t want to miss! If you’re up for something active, swap your kayak for a bike or your walking shoes and tackle the 8.2-kilometre path around the lake. |
Wabamun Lake
– Media from briannasinkler
Location: Parkland County, AB
Distance from Edmonton: 49-minute drive
Wabamun Lake is a great spot for canoeing, with several launch points along the shoreline. The lake offers plenty of space, so I didn’t have to worry about motorboats, making it a peaceful environment for paddling and fishing.
I even tried canoe fishing and had a great time. There are northern pike, walleye, and perch in these waters. Although some areas have dense vegetation along the shore, there are still many quiet spots to enjoy a relaxing day on the water.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the motorboat traffic and enjoy the calmest waters. The morning is the best time for peaceful paddling and fishing, so getting there early ensures a more relaxing experience. |
Canoe Rentals in Edmonton
Canoeheads
– Media from canoeheads_yeg
Website: https://www.canoeheads.com/
Address: 9420 152 St NW (office only)
Phone: +1 780 481 6044
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Canoeheads offers a day trip from Devon Bridge to Laurier Park for $130, which includes transport, canoe rental, paddles, and safety gear for two people. The 5–6 hour paddle is ideal for beginners, with the trip being suitable for small groups.
For longer adventures, the 2-day overnight trip from Genesee Bridge costs $260 and includes transportation and all necessary gear. Additionally, custom trips are available, and weekday bookings for larger groups can be arranged by appointment.
| Pro Tips: A 50% deposit is required to book your trip, paid by cash, cheque, or email money transfer. If you’re bringing extra people along, there is a $30 transportation charge per person for single-day trips. |
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 provides canoe rentals with convenient pick-up options, allowing you to transport the equipment to your preferred location. A 24-hour rental for the Pelican 14.6 ft canoe is priced at $85, with a 25% deposit required to secure your booking.
The rental prices are straightforward, with options for 24-hour, 4-day, and weekly rentals. If you’re unsure about transporting a canoe, local tours are also available.
| Pro Tips: Don’t forget to bring a valid ID and credit card when picking up your canoe. This ensures a smooth rental process and confirms your booking. If you only need the canoe for two days, the 4-day rate will still apply. Remember, the deposit is non-refundable, but you can try to reschedule based on availability. It’s best to notify them as soon as possible to discuss options. |
Edmonton Canoe
– Media from edmontoncanoe
Website: https://edmontoncanoe.com/
Phone: +1 780 470 5352
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 5 PM
Edmonton Canoe offers a variety of canoe rentals for paddling down the North Saskatchewan River. Prices start from $75 for a full-day canoe rental, including the shuttle service to your starting point.
Trips are available daily, with each canoe designed for two people, and room for a third with an extra seat. Each trip lets you enjoy the river at your own pace, whether you’re heading downstream from Devon or exploring the area near downtown Edmonton.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of Happy Hour on the River on a summer weekday evening. The trip starts at Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park and takes you back to Capilano Park, with all equipment and transportation provided for a seamless experience. |
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 canoe rentals for various needs, including the Wenonah Heron, which is perfect for lake or fishing trips. Rentals are available for a minimum of three days, with weekday rates starting at $120 for a 3-day rental.
In addition to canoes, you can rent accessories such as spray skirts, dry bags, and portage carts. Trailers are available for rent with a minimum of four vessels rented at once, making it easier to transport your equipment.
| Pro Tip: Remember that only Visa or Mastercard credit cards are accepted for rental deposits, so plan accordingly. |
Canoe Lessons in Edmonton
Haskin Canoe
– Media from haskincanoe
Website: https://www.haskincanoe.ca/
Phone: +1 780 922 4324
Haskin Canoe offers a variety of Paddle Canada-certified courses for all skill levels, including lake canoeing and moving water training. These courses are designed for those looking to improve their technique or gain certification.
The pricing for these courses varies, with some offering discounts for members of Paddle Alberta or summer camp staff. You can expect to pay around $295 to $525 per person, depending on the course.
| Pro Tips: Many courses require prior paddling experience or specific certifications, so it’s important to check the prerequisites before booking. Also, try taking a first aid course to ensure you’re fully prepared for outdoor activities. Haskin Canoe offers hands-on, interactive training that’s engaging and practical. |
Northwest Voyageurs Canoe and Kayak Club
– Media from nwv_canoe_and_kayak
Website: https://www.nwvoyageurs.com/
The Northwest Voyageurs is a welcoming club for paddlers of all skill levels. Membership is affordable, with individual memberships priced at $40 and family memberships at $60, which includes all children under 25 living at home.
The club offers a variety of activities, such as weekly paddling sessions from June to September, and pool sessions in spring to help shake off the winter rust. Members also enjoy discounted rentals, certified instruction, and injury insurance during trips.
| Pro Tips: Take advantage of Rundle Park Paddling Centre’s Wednesday sessions to try out free equipment and get tips from experienced members. It’s a great way to practice before committing to a membership. If you haven’t paddled in a while, join the spring pool sessions to refresh your skills and get comfortable with different types of boats. Whitewater kayaks and canoes are available for practice, helping you prepare for outdoor paddling. |
Ceyana Canoe Club
– Media from majazimm
Website: https://ceyanacanoeclub.wildapricot.org/
Ceyana Canoe Club offers a variety of paddling programs for all ages, including courses, trips, social events, and drop-in paddling sessions. Membership grants access to courses in canoeing and kayaking, with one-year adult memberships priced at $50.
The club’s courses are taught by certified instructors and run in various weather conditions unless deemed unsafe. In addition to courses, members can participate in trips and social events.
| Pro Tips: To ensure you’re included in upcoming programs or trips, it’s a good idea to register early, as courses may be cancelled if there’s insufficient interest. Take advantage of Totem Outdoor Outfitters’ 10% discount on most goods for Ceyana members to save on your paddling gear. |