Calgary 
Have you ever considered paddling Calgary’s waters at sunset or dusk?
Calgary Kayaks
The Bow River is an incredibly scenic place to explore by boat, and there are some convenient ways to do so in Calgary. But there are now two more ways to make your paddle through Calgary more enjoyable and scenic (or photo-worthy!).
Calgary has two boat rental companies offering canoe-kayak hybrids that light up with colourful LEDS. The clear boats allow you to see more of the underwater world and more above the water after sunset. And while both rental companies include rentals for the Bow River, either company is set up for launching from different river valley areas: one from Waterfront Park and the other from Carburn Park. This is a chance to paddle through two parts of Calgary’s Bow River Valley.
Waterfront Park is in the northwest part of the city, near where the Bow River enters Calgary; Carburn Park is on the southeast side, near where the Bow River exits Calgary.
You may like:
1. Illuminated Escapes Calgary
Illuminated Escapes’s launch point is at Waterfront Park where the river is surrounded by dense treelines. The scenic area is an easy part of the river on which to practice paddle skills. Plus, this part of the river valley is a haven for birds and wildlife.
The rental costs will include more than the light-up boat! The boats come equipped with Bluetooth speakers, paddles, and safety gear. And before you launch onto the Bow, the guides at Illuminated Escapes will give you a 10-minute rundown on paddling the Bow. Your paddle trip is self-guided, and will include several photo opportunities.
When: open Tuesday to Sunday, 6-10:45pm
Rides available for 3, 5, 7, and 9pm
Where: Waterfront Park – 5225 101 St NW, Calgary
How much: $50 per single kayak, $100 per tandem kayak, both per 90-minute rental
Booking is available online
2. Calgary Kayaks
Launch your LED clear kayak from Carburn Park in the city’s south. In addition to some small narrow stretches of river to explore, the area also has three ponds. Your paddle will be next to a large sprawl of urban parkland, and on a slower part of the Bow.
Calgary Kayaks are equipped with a Bluetooth speaker for your boating tunes, and safety equipment (kids lifejackets not available, please bring your own!). The trips are self-guided.
If you’d like to reserve the kayaks for a larger group (four or more), contact Calgary Kayaks directly to learn about group discounts.
When: Thursday to Sunday with bookings available every half-hour between 6pm and 9pm
Where: Carburn Park 67 Riverview Dr SE, Calgary
How much: $35 per hour on single kayaks, up to 3-hours; $60 per hour on tandem kayaks, up to 2-hours
