It’s great exercise, it’s relaxing, and it’s easy to learn—when it comes to summer fun, it’s hard to beat kayaking. No matter if you’re still trying to get your sea legs or you’re a seasoned pro, the Edmonton region is full of great places to hit the water. With kayaking season now well underway, here are six of the best local paddling spots for you to discover!
1) Telford Lake
This long, narrow lake in the northeast corner of Leduc is well-known for hosting dragon boat competitions every summer. When competitions aren’t running, the Leduc Boat Club pier is open for public use, providing easy access to the water. While the edges of the lake can be a bit weedy, they’re an excellent place to watch for the ducks, pelicans, and egrets that make Leduc their summer home. For intermediate kayakers, the centre of the lake is just windy enough to offer a bit of a challenge (and an excellent tricep workout) without having to worry about large waves. From your boat, enjoy views of wetlands, forests, and prairie, as well as families enjoying the boardwalk.
2) Big Lake
25 minutes outside of Edmonton, in St. Albert’s Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park, Big Lake offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration. At 8 km long and 3 km wide, there’s lots of shoreline to discover. Big Lake has been internationally recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) because of the over 235 species of birds recorded to spend at least part of the year there, including Tundra Swans and Franklin’s Gulls. Visit throughout spring, summer, and fall to see different bird species and beautifully-changing foliage.
3) Astotin Lake
On the north end of Elk Island Provincial Park, Astotin Lake is a popular place for kayakers of all abilities. You can either launch your kayak from the boat launch just north of the beach or, if you’re fine with a bit of a carry, from the beach itself. Once you’re in the water, head out into the middle of the lake to explore one of Astotin’s many islands, or stay close to shore to check out one of the many beaver lodges rising out of the water. Remember to give the animals some space! You can also visit the actual Elk Island, which is now a peninsula on the south shore of the lake. While Astotin is a well-known spot to kayak, which may make it busier than other destinations on this list, there’s enough space on the water for everyone and enough to see to warrant future return trips.
4) Buck Lake
If you’re looking to kayak as part of an overnight stay, Buck Lake is the perfect place to be. The lake boasts a grand total of 33 km of shoreline to explore, perfect for multiple days on the water. Buck Lake is best known as a nesting site for many different kinds of birds, including loons, herons, and bald eagles. At night, campgrounds and washrooms are available at Calhoun Bay Recreation Area; this is also where you’ll find the boat launch, which is hand-launch only. The hamlet of Buck Lake, on the south end of the lake, has many amenities including a grocery store, hardware store, a picnic area, and a weekend farmers’ market.
5) Twin Lake
Twin Lake, an hour and a half southwest of Edmonton, is a relatively small lake with minimal waves even in windy weather. This, combined with the fact that motorized boats aren’t allowed on the lake, makes this the perfect spot for first-time paddlers and families. Take a picnic lunch and make a day trip out of the experience—there’s a campground with a playground on the north side of the lake for kids to enjoy in between bouts on the water.
6) Eagle Point Provincial Park / Blue Rapids Recreational Area
If you’d prefer paddling on the river, this gem near Drayton Valley is just what you’ve been looking for. Take in views of imposing riverbank cliffs and serene forested shoreline as you make your way down the North Saskatchewan River. Don’t forget to watch for wildlife—wolves, whitetail deer, and even cougars call this park system home. Paddle for as long or as little as you want thanks to several pick-up and drop-off points within the park.
What are some of your favourite places to kayak in Edmonton? Any hidden gems we missed? Let us know @WhereEdmonton!
