Boating & Canoeing

On Ponds

You can use your non-powered craft on the main pond in Hermitage Park. The Edmonton Paddling Centre Society operates a canoe/kayak centre on the ponds in Rundle Park for group paddling.

Most of the other ponds in Edmonton's park system are stormwater lakes and are not suitable for boating, canoeing or kayaking. Be aware of the associated health risks.

On Stormwater Lakes

Boating is allowed on stormwater lakes from the first day of the Victoria Day weekend to the end of Thanksgiving day.

Water quality is subject to environmental conditions. While the water is usually clean, the City does not guarantee consistency. Quality is worst during and immediately after heavy rains and conditions may last up to 72 hours.

The sewers bylaw restricts the use of stormwater lakes with the exception of express permission from the City Manager.

On the River

 As users of the river, we are all responsible for its conservation and ensuring a positive recreational experience for ourselves and others.

Powered vessels must keep clear of non-powered craft. Non-powered boaters should know it is often better for motor craft to pass them at speed as they throw a smaller wake.

• When overtaking another vessel, leave a wide space and make it clear what side you are passing on.
• Alter your course to the right when approaching another vessel head-on.
• Be conscious of motor noise.
• Don't leave your vehicle parked on a boat launch. Park it in an appropriate spot.
• Fires are only permitted in permanent firepits within the city limits.
• Please don't litter on the water. Avoid spilling gas and oil. Report refuse in the river or along the banks to the river valley park rangers at 780-496-2950.

Boat Launches

The City of Edmonton maintains a trailered boat launch at Capilano Park and another at Laurier Park, which are open from May to November, weather and river-level permitting. Temporary closures may occur due to high water or other emergency situations.

There are five other hand/carry boat launches that are accessible to canoeists or other users:

• Whitemud Park – (off of Fox Drive just by the Whitemud Equine Center)
  Just before the trail head parking lot there's another small parking lot by the river where you can park and carry your canoe a short distance to the river. Note: there is a mound of dirt on site due to construction of the new pedestrian bridge.
• Terwillegar Park (156 St. and 36 Ave. )
  The walk to the river is quite long.
• Fort Edmonton Park (corner of Fox Drive and Whitemud Drive)
  As you enter the Park area just under the Quesnell bridge, drop off your canoe and start your trip from there. Park your vehicle in the Park parking lot.
• Emily Murphy Park (Emily Murphy Road and Groat Road)
  The launch is just under the Groat bridge at the west end of the park. Drop your boat off where signs indicate and park in the parking lot. The north side of the parking lot does not have time restrictions and parking there is free.
• Dawson Park (North of 10286 and 89 St. )
  Below the washroom building there's a gentle sandy hill where you can access the river. Park in the lot and walk your canoe in.
  

For more information: