Bucket-List Paddleboarding Spots in Western Canada By Kristen Alexis

When you think of paddleboarding, I’m sure Canada never really came up as a location to bring your board. I spent a few years travelling to Western Canada, and I’d like to change your mind. In this blog, I’ll be sharing some of my favourite paddleboarding spots in Western Canada, lakes in Alberta and British Columbia from my road trips and travels. I hope you like them just as much as I did!

Lake Louise is one of the most iconic spots in Banff National Park, and also one of the most popular destinations. It’s easily recognizable for sparkling turquoise waters, glacial-capped mountains and stunning surrounding peaks. Despite the cold temperature of the glacial-fed lake, people flock there every day in the summer to canoe or paddle its waters. Make sure to get there early, as the parking lot fills up fast!

Located just a few miles from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake another Instagram-worthy spot in Banff. This glacial-fed turquoise lake is surrounded by the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s another popular spot to canoe and paddle, so make sure to get there early! The parking lot is a lot smaller than that of Lake Louise, and therefore can fill up before 6 am!

Two Jack Lake is a lot closer to the town of Banff and can be found on the drive to Lake Minnewanka. Unlike Lake Minnewanka, which is notorious for high winds and choppy waters, Two Jack is a paddleboarder’s paradise. The waters here are usually very calm, especially if you go early in the morning or late afternoon. On the water you will see views of the imposing and iconic Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain.

This little pond is often overlooked and missed by tourists, and even locals. Found just past the Kananaskis Village, this became one of my favorite spots for some golden hour and sunset paddleboarding and photography. It’s never crowded and the reflections on the lake on a calm day are insane.

Bow Lake can be found just about 20 minutes past Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper. Often overlooked, Bow Lake is a lot less crowded by some of the other lakes but just as spectacular. Bow Lake is a turquoise glacial-fed lake surrounded by stunning peaks, hiking trails and glaciers. It’s a perfect spot to paddle, as there are a few launching points right near the parking lot of the lodge. I recommend to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to get the calmest waters. 

The Okanagan region of British Columbia is notorious for warm, sunny summers. It actually reminds me a bit of California. The region has a ridiculous amount of lakes; it’s actually quite different to choose which ones to explore. One of my favorites is Kalamalka Lake. It’s a beautiful turquoise color and has a lot of wonderful beaches to launch from and explore from your paddleboard, kayak or boat. In the summer the beaches can get pretty crowded, so make sure to get a spot early!

Ellison Provincial Park is a great little spot on the northern region of Okanagan Lake. Not only is it a great spot to launch your paddleboard, but it’s a nice little beach that hosts picnic spots and campgrounds. The waters here are typically very calm, so it’s perfect for all levels. 

Rotary Beach is a family-friendly beach just south of the city of Kelowna. It boasts gorgeous views of the surrounding hills, and some of the best sunsets in the region. Like every location on this list, it can get crowded, so definitely plan to get there early, or a bit later in the afternoon.