Boating in Alberta

Look no further, Alberta. We’ve got your boating bucket list covered. From the flat stretches of the Alberta Plains to the Rocky Mountains, Alberta has a boating adventure for everyone. Explore glacier fed Lake Minnewanka, nestled in the Rockies of Banff National Park, or experience a day of wakesurfing on popular Lake Newell. Wondering where to launch your boat or looking for easy boating access? Check out Discover Boating’s Marina and Boat Launch finder, and get out on the water!

Lake Minnewanka is a large, glacier fed lake, located on the east side of Banff National Park. It’s also the only lake located within the park that allows limited motorized boat operation. There are daily guided boat cruises to Devil’s Gap, or you can rent your own boat for the day from the Lake Minnewanka docks. Plus, there are a multitude of other activities to choose from, including fishing, diving, hiking, mountain biking and canoeing.

Lake Newell

Lake Newell is actually the warmest lake in Southern Alberta, so it’s no wonder that it’s a hot spot for summer activities, including boating, waterskiing and wake surfing, swimming and paddling.

Be a beach bum for the day, or bring the kids along for an afternoon splash in the water! If you want to plan a longer visit to the lake, the Kinbrook Island Provincial Park & Campground are located on the lakes East side. With over 160 campsites, and a campground that offers a multitude of amenities, you can stay and play for days.

Lake Louise

If you haven’t visited Lake Louise, you haven’t experienced all that Alberta has to offer. Its sparking turquoise waters and surrounding mountains are a site that must be seen to be fully understood.

Although power-boating isn’t permitted, canoeing is a highly recommended activity. Canoe rentals and tours are available through the Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise, with no previous experience required. There are a variety of times that can be booked, including sunrise and evening canoe experiences.

This naturally spring fed lake is one of Alberta’s top tourist destinations, with year round activities, food & entertainment. The nearby Sylvan Lake Provincial Park offers 2 boat launches, and a 1.6 km long sandy beach.

Complete with ample boating and watersports opportunities, an aquasplash centre, waterskiing and wakesurfing, and Flyboard Jetpack Adventure packs, it’s the perfect summer family destination. Visiting in the fall? Try axe throwing, paintball, or the indoor skate park! There’s no shortage of activities to choose from at any time of year!

Jasper National Park: As the largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park boasts stunning mountain views, crystal clear lake waters, and a array of various water activities.

There are amenities available throughout the entire year, including seasonal cottages, winter cabins and hotels. Once you’re there, choose from canoeing, white water rafting, scenic boat cruises, scuba diving, and wildlife and waterfall tours, or plan a longer stay and try them all!

Dinosaur Provincial Park: This desert-like provincial park, located in the south of Alberta, doesn’t exactly offer any water activities, but we wouldn’t be doing the province justice if we didn’t make mention of the stunning Dinosaur Provincial Park. Enjoy a perfect day with your family while you check out the museum, wander the park looking for fossils, and marvel at the gravity-defying hoodoo’s.

For the avid angler, head to Birch Creek for some Fly Fishing, or try your luck at reeling in any number of fish species at one of Banff National Parks numerous lakes. Just be sure to learn about Alberta’s Fishing License rules before you cast your line.

Be on the water in just a few hours! Get your Alberta Boating License and experience Alberta’s waterways today.