Banff Big Canoe Tour on the Bow River: Family-Friendly Canoeing
Glide upriver in a 12‑seater big canoe and let the Bow River show you a quieter side of Banff National Park. This 90‑minute guided trip is family‑friendly, hands‑on, and a smart way to see wildlife and mountain reflections without prior paddling experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Mountain mornings are chilly and afternoons can warm quickly—bring a lightweight windbreaker and a warm mid‑layer you can stash in a dry bag.
Wear secure footwear
Closed-toe water shoes or grippy sandals prevent slipping during embarkation and protect feet on the landing.
Bring a small dry bag
Waterproof your phone, camera and extra layers—splashes are common even on calm days.
Stay quiet for wildlife
Keep noise low and follow the guide’s instructions—wildlife sightings are more likely when the group moves calmly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle early to catch mountain reflections just upstream of the Banff Avenue bridge.
- •After the tour, stroll to the nearby Bow River pathways for quieter viewpoints most visitors miss.
Wildlife
- •Beaver
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Tours operate under Parks Canada guidelines—do not feed or approach wildlife, pack out waste, and follow guides’ directions to minimize disturbance to river banks and riparian habitat.
The Bow Valley has long been a travel corridor for Indigenous peoples including the Stoney Nakoda; Banff became Canada’s first national park in 1885, and river travel played a role in regional exploration.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the canoe looking upstream toward Cascade Mountain
- • Near the Banff Canoe Club landing and Banff Avenue bridge
- • Bow River bends just upstream for reflections
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration is crucial at altitude and during light exertion—bring a full bottle.
Water shoes or grippy sandalsEssential
Helps with wet landings and keeps feet comfortable during the trip.
Light waterproof jacket or windbreakerEssential
Protects against sudden wind or drizzle common in mountain valleys.
Small dry bag
Keeps layers, camera and phone dry during splashes and light spray.
Common Questions
Do I need prior canoeing experience?
No; guides provide paddling instruction and coordinate group strokes—this trip is designed for beginners and families.
Are life jackets provided and required?
Yes. Life jackets (PFDs) are provided and must be worn for the duration of the tour.
What is the meeting location and time?
Meet at the Banff Canoe Club on the corner of Bow Avenue and Wolf Street, about a 5‑minute walk from downtown Banff; arrive 15 minutes early for equipment fitting.
Can infants and strollers be accommodated?
Infants and small children can be transported and the operator notes stroller accessibility for getting to the meeting point—check with the operator about lap seating guidelines.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Tours can be canceled for unsafe conditions; you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund if cancellation is necessary.
Can I bring my camera or phone on the canoe?
Yes—use a small dry bag or secure wrist strap. Guides may also help with safer photo opportunities but avoid hanging expensive gear unsecured.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; able to sit and paddle as part of a group for the duration of the trip
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