Boating and Canoeing

On Ponds

You can use your non-motorized craft on the main pond in Hermitage Park. Paddle boat rentals are available at Rundle and William Hawrelak 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 the River

As users of the river, we are all responsible for its conservation and for 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 this will 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 311
• When travelling on non-motorized crafts ensure you have reviewed the river travel times

On Stormwater Lakes

For public safety, any activity that may result in direct contact with water in stormwater lakes is prohibited (this includes wading, swimming, boating, fishing and skating). Please see Drainage Bylaw 16200, section 22(1) for more information.

The City has signage posted at all stormwater facilities advising residents to keep off the water/ice because conditions are unknown. Due to the nature and the function of stormwater lakes, conditions can be unpredictable and dangerous. Moving water, temperature changes underwater due to vegetation or drainage and fluctuating weather conditions can all result in unsafe conditions not visible from the surface.

Boat Launches

The City of Edmonton maintains a trailered boat launch at Capilano Park and another at Laurier Park. These are open from April to November; depending on weather, ice, river levels and/or other debris. Temporary closures may occur due to high water or other emergency situations. To be notified of closures, subscribe to the Boat Launches Closure Notifications.

• Capilano Park (south side of river at the end of 50 Street)
  Please use with caution, as submerged rocks or other debris may not be evident on the launch. Trailer and Motorized Boat Access available, parking is limited.
• Laurier Park (13221 Buena Vista Rd NW)
  Please use with caution, as submerged rocks or other debris may not be evident on the launch. Trailer and Motorized Boat Access available, parking is limited.

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

• Whitemud Park – (off of Fox Drive 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. Please note that there is a mound of dirt on site due to construction of the new pedestrian bridge
• Terwillegar Park (156 Street and 36 Avenue)
  The walk to the river is quite long
• Fort Edmonton Park (corner of Fox Drive and Whitemud Drive)
  As you enter the park area under the Quesnell bridge, drop off your canoe and start your trip from there. Park your vehicle in the Fort Edmonton Park parking lot
• Emily Murphy Park (Emily Murphy Road and Groat Road)
  The launch is 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 Street)
  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.
• Louise McKinney Riverfront Park Floating Dock
  The dock is located to the right of the River Valley Adventure Co. down the trail when facing the River.