Floating the Bow River

The Bow River runs through the middle of Calgary, and floating it is a summer tradition according to Avenue Calgary. The City describes the Bow as deep and fast, with features such as Harvie Passage and the standing wave on 10 Street NW. Daily Hive recommends a sturdy raft or dinghy for its currents, while the gentler Elbow suits families.

Drift boats, canoes, kayaks and human-powered rafts are welcome, but motorized craft are banned within city limits. The City asks floaters to use designated launch sites shown on its River Access Map, and says a float takes one to seven hours depending on the start point. Avenue Calgary describes a popular half-day route from West Baker Park to Prince's Island Park. Life jackets are required by bylaw, and the City asks paddlers to check flow rates and river advisories first.