Calgary 
The rivers of southern Alberta are perfect for whatever type of watercraft you choose to rent: stand-up paddleboard, kayak, tandem kayak, canoe, or fishing boat.
Credit: Blakiston and Company
Alberta’s southernmost river, Milk River, is an epic journey that begins in the western mountains and foothills, runs down to the plains, and enters the badlands.
The Old Man River is a convenient location for those in Lethbridge, Calgary, High Level, or Pincher Creek, and can be a relaxing place to bring a date or young kids boating. But the biggest place to explore of them all is the waters of Waterton Lake National Park, where you can spend hours exploring the smaller creeks, or Cameron Lake in the west.
Outdoor Xcape Rentals
The floating islands and stand-up paddleboards from Outdoor Xcape Rentals can be rented for an adventure on the South Saskatchewan River. You can bring their rented kayaks here too, or to Seven Persons Creek. When you rent these boats, Xcape also provides life jackets, ensuring you have everything you need for a fun-filled river experience. Details
Where: location provided after booking (403) 928-2454
You may like:
Central Alberta Lakes With Boat & Watersport Rentals
Boats & Watersport Rentals at Northern Alberta Lakes and Rivers
Blakiston and Company Adventure Rentals
Pick from a few different Waterton adventures with Blakiston and their watersport rentals. You can pick up a canoe, kayak, SUP, or e-bike, and see one of Canada’s prettiest National Parks from the lakes that give it the name Waterton Lakes. They can even rent you a clear kayak, giving you underwater views for your entire journey. Details
Where: 102 Mt View Rd, Waterton
Cameron Lake Boat Rentals
At the westernmost edge of Waterton National Park is a hidden gem of a small lake. Cameron Lake on the Akamina Parkway is a gorgeous picnic and hiking area, too, but you can stop by their boathouse and get out on the serene lake and explore the wildlife and wildflowers along the shores. The boathouse offers canoes, kayaks, rowboats, pedal boats, stand-up paddle boards, and fishing poles. Details
Where: end of Akamina Parkway, Waterton Lakes NP
Phone: 403-627-6443
High-Level Canoes & Kayaks
The Old Man River, which runs around the city of Lethbridge, is an excellent paddle and kayak river, as the water levels don’t reach insane heights, and the rapids this far east are almost non-existent. Instead, this river lets you paddle slowly to enjoy the badlands or southern Prairies.
Rent your boat from High-Level Canoes & Kayaks and launch conveniently from the city or anywhere nearby. Details
Where: 1805 2nd Avenue South, Lethbridge
Phone: 403-327-4506
Glenmore Sailing School
You can rent a variety of small sailboats and a large day-cruiser from Glenmore Sailing School. Although you will need an understanding of the Glenmore bylaws and demonstrated knowledge of sailing, small sailboats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also rent a canoe or kayak here.
Where: 8415 24 St SW, Calgary
Sports Rent
There are many types of activities you can prepare for with Sports Rent, including watersports, but also biking, camping, hiking, rollerblading, and more. Take your pick of adventure with Sports Rent and choose between fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, SUPs, rafts, or toys like water skis and wakeboards. Details
Where: 4424 16th Ave. NW, Calgary
For more options in Calgary, see:
- Fun Water-Based Activities and Adventures For This Summer in and Around Calgary
- 25 of the Best Paddle Spots in Alberta – Canoe, Kayak, or Paddleboard!
University of Calgary
The U of C has a huge variety of outdoor equipment to rent year-round, including watersport rentals. This includes two types of paddleboards, three types of rafts, two canoes, and two kinds of kayaks. And beyond the boats, U of C can rent you all the gear you need, plus tents, bikes, waders, backpacks, and more. Details
Where: 2500 University Drive NW
