Since relocating to Edmonton from Winnipeg for university last September, I’ve found common ground with my peers through our shared passion for running. When seeking advice on the best running routes, they unanimously directed me to the North Saskatchewan River. It quickly became evident that Edmontonians hold great pride in the river valley, often frequenting its trails for walks or runs, capturing picturesque moments at landmarks like the Terwillegar Footbridge and Keillor Point Lookout, and enjoying playful outings with their canine companions at the off-leash dog parks.

This passion for the river valley left me with a question⁠—there are some fantastic trails that get you really close to the water, but can you actually go on the water? I was thrilled to learn the answer is yes! From canoeing, to rafting, to testing your core strength on  a stand up paddle board, there is no shortage of ways to get active on the river.

Already have a boat or paddle board?

Thanks to the City of Edmonton and the River Valley Alliance, there are boat launches and docks right here in Edmonton, including a number of new ones set to open this summer. 

Looking to get social on the water?

Check out these clubs:

Don’t have your own equipment?

Don’t worry—there are some great local outfitters who’ve got you covered. Here are just a few:

Haskin Canoe

Haskin Canoe offers a variety of tours and rental options for both kayakers and canoers. Set out on the North Saskatchewan River in a Voyageur canoe, or enjoy a sunset kayak in Elk Island National Park.

Aquabatics Edmonton

Aquabatics Edmonton is Edmonton’s resource for all things paddling. Not just a retail destination, Aquabatics Edmonton offers paddle courses, kayak tours, kayak fishing tours and stand up paddle board programs. From introductory courses to instructor training, Aquabatics offers programs and rentals for all skill levels.

River Lifestyle Co.

Not interested in a workout? Consider floating on a river tube. Based out of Voyageur Park in the nearby town of  Devon, River Lifestyle Co offers one hour and three hour river tubing rentals. With both child and adult tubes available, a river float is the perfect activity for the whole family.

Safety first!

When you do go out on the river it goes without saying to always ensure that proper water safety procedures and equipment are in place and that you familiarize yourself with safe river levels and flow rates. Here’s a great resource to help you know when to go – and when to trek the river valley trails instead.

Hopefully you’re now inspired to get out there and #baskonthesask this summer!

If you’re a total newbie to water sports and this all still sounds a little daunting, don’t worry —there’s a great new festival called EPCOR RiverFest that was created just for you! This one-day festival is put on by the River Valley Alliance .

By Jessie Rew