Paddles, Rafts & Scenic Floats

Explore the North Saskatchewan River and the region’s lakes

Get on the water this summer, whether you’re looking for the excitement of chasing rapids or to slow down to enjoy the views you just can’t get otherwise.

The upper section of the North Saskatchewan River, between Banff National Park and Abraham Lake, offers some of the most amazing landscapes with rugged peaks, glaciers, hidden lakes and wildflowers. Join Nordegg Adventures for a scenic float this summer.

The North Saskatchewan River between Nordegg and Rocky Mountain House offers some of the best canoe tripping in Alberta and family friendly rafting opportunities. HeLa Ventures offers rafting tours near Rocky Mountain House throughout the summer season. 

Hiking along Survey Hill on the Kootenay Plains
Hiking along Survey Hill on the Kootenay Plains
Hiking along the David Thompson Highway

Looking to head out on your own? Nordegg Adventures has some inflatable kayaks available to rent and HeLa Ventures offers canoe rentals and shuttles for trips along the North Saskatchewan River between Nordegg and Drayton Valley.

HeLa Ventures also offers information on the North Saskatchewan River between the Forestry Trunk Road and Rocky Mountain House on their website. Another great source of information for those planning to paddle the river is the book Mark’s Guide for Alberta Paddlers. Finally, make sure to check the current flow levels on rivers.alberta.ca before you go.

Water Safety

Self-guided paddling on the North Saskatchewan River or Abraham Lake are advanced adventures suitable for those who have the proper equipment and skills. While the water may appear calm, both of these have many hidden hazards that make them dangerous for unprepared and unexperienced visitors.

Fish Lake and Goldeye Lake are better options for those novice paddlers or those looking for a float on a hot summer day.

We all have our part to do to keep this place special. Planning ahead is key to ensuring that we all continue to enjoy adventures in the Nordegg & Abraham Lake region. These are a few of the things you can do to help:

  • Minimize your impact by using existing sites, fire rings and toilets instead of creating your own.
  • Know about current fire bans, make sure that your fire is completely out before you go and buy firewood instead of cutting down trees. Remember that shooting fireworks is not allowed in the region.
  • Keep your site clean and your food stored inside your vehicle to help keep our wildlife wild. Always use bear-proof garbage bins.
  • While alcohol is now permitted in some Alberta Parks day-use areas, none of those are in our region. Alcohol is only allowed at registered campsites.
  • Be mindful of your neighbours and other visitors, including keeping noise to a minimum.
  • Be prepared for adventures in a remote area. Explore within your skills to reduce the strain on our volunteer search and rescue team.
  • Remember that cell service is limited. We recommend carrying a satellite communicator, like a Zoleo, on your adventures.
  • Support local businesses and communities in Cline River, the Bighorn and Nordegg.

Information provided here may be inaccurate or outdated. Always make sure to obtain current information before going on your adventure.

Scenic Floats

All tours and activities bookings are handled by Explore Nordegg & Abraham Lake and tours like these are offered by local partners. Most bookings require a minimum of 2 days’ notice, contact us for last-minute options.

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Whitewater Rafting

All tours and activities bookings are handled by Explore Nordegg & Abraham Lake and tours like these are offered by local partners. Most bookings require a minimum of 2 days’ notice, contact us for last-minute options.

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Gear Rentals

All tours and activities bookings are handled by Explore Nordegg & Abraham Lake and tours like these are offered by local partners. Most bookings require a minimum of 2 days’ notice, contact us for last-minute options.

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