Planning a visit to the Canadian Rockies? First, don’t forget to add canoeing in Banff to your itinerary. In fact, this activity lets you experience the beauty of crystal-clear alpine lakes up close. If you have never done canoeing there is nothing to worry about. You can still do this activity safely and enjoy it. Let’s explore the three best places to enjoy canoeing in Banff.
Things to know before Canoeing in Banff:-
- Whenever planning for canoeing in Banff or may be anywhere else, make sure to wear the comfortable clothes, but not too loose. As the loose clothing can get caught on paddles. Always carry a hat, raincoat, and sunscreen along with you as the weather changes frequently in the rockies.
- While canoeing keep in mind that the things you carry along might get wet. So, it is recommended to leave the items you can’t afford to wet at a safe place, maybe your vehicle or if there is any storage available. You can carry a dry bag to keep your phone, keys, water & some snacks.
- Always remember to wear a life jacket when canoeing in Banff. Even if you know swimming, water can be cold here and you never know if something goes wrong.
- Best thing to keep in mind is to sit in the middle of the canoe to maintain the balance. Do not lean to the sides and never stand on the canoe.
I. Canoeing on Lake Louise
You can rent the classic red canoes from the west bank of Lake Louise. The rentals are available at the Fairmont Hotel Boathouse on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the rentals cost around CAD $110 per hour for guests of Fairmont Hotel and $170 per hour for those not staying at Fairmont Hotel. The rental can get pretty expensive, and prepare for prolonged waiting times if you are visiting during peak season.
Reaching Lake Louise: The parking spot at Lake Louise is very limited. Additionally, make sure to arrive early for securing a parking spot. Be prepared to pay a parking fee of $36.75 per vehicle if you are visiting during peak season.
Shuttle Service: You can avail of the Parks Canada Shuttle for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. The Alpine Start shuttle departs at 4 am and 5 am. It is priced at CAD $8 plus an online booking fee of $3.50. Moreover, you can easily travel from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake with this shuttle ticket. This shuttle leaves from Lake Louise Ski Resort, offering plenty of parking spaces for your four-wheeler.
II. Canoeing on Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake, surrounded by towering peaks, is the top choice for nature lovers looking for a bit of adrenaline. You can rent the canoes from Moraine Lake Lodge. The Lodge also offers accommodation to tourists who wish to experience the action from up close. It costs around CAD $160 per hour for canoe rental. This is inclusive of life jackets and paddles. The rentals operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Moraine Lake is situated higher in the mountains, getting more snowfall and for a prolonged period compared to Lake Louise.
Reaching Moraine Lake: You cannot take personal vehicles to Moraine Lake. However, you can reach this beautiful place through the Parks Canada shuttle system. The same has been mentioned above for Lake Louise. Want to spend the entire day at Moraine Lake? Take advantage of the connector shuttle after arriving at Lake Louise from Moraine Lake. Moreover, the adventurous souls can bike to Moraine. There are also various private tour options for you to try out.
III. Canoeing on the Bow River
The Bow River flowing right next to downtown Banff is a sight to behold. Moreover, you can enjoy canoeing here at CAD $65 per hour. This makes it the most affordable spot for canoeing in Banff. Further, you can head out to the Banff Canoe Club for renting a canoe. It lies within walking distance of downtown Banff. And those staying outside of Banff can park their vehicles in the free parking spot near the train station.
You will have to walk for 10-15 minutes to reach the Bow River from here. The rental price of canoes is inclusive of life jackets and paddles. Further, the staff at Banff Canoe Club can help you with the gear and canoeing tips. If you canoe for a few minutes, the river gets pretty calm. This makes for a meandering morning paddle.
Also, check out our article on canoeing at Emerald Lake.
