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BOW WATERS CANOE CLUB

Calgary and area's premier recreational paddling club. 

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Upcoming events

  • Board Meeting

    • 20 Jan 2025
    • 15 Dec 2025
    • 10 sessions
    • Zoom

    Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

    Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at tinab@bowwaters.org to request to join and/or to put forward a request for an agenda item, (e.g. member concern or request etc).

    The board does not meet in July or August but if necessary the Executive will meet and make decisions.

    If you are interested in joining the board as a member rep, please contact Tina! (Annual General Meeting takes place in November at Club Night).

    Minutes of board meetings are posted on the website once they are approved. Look under Members tab, Club Official Docs (you must be logged in).



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  • Fun Paddle on the Canal

    • 5 Jun 2025
    • 13 Jun 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Canal adjacent to clubhouse

    Fun Facts: This session is offered to help new or novice paddlers become accustomed to paddling on moving water.   We will focus on basic skills such as eddy turns and ferry's which are essential for paddling rivers with potential hazards you will want to avoid.   This will also help prepare you for other more advanced courses offered through the club.

    Level/Class:  Novice, class 1 stretch of river with few obstructions.

    Expected Flow:   This is part of the irrigation network arising from the Bow River so flow rates will vary accordingly.

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation.   We will be using boats from the boathouse but if you want to bring your own boat and equipment please do so.

    Shuttle:  We will only be shuttling boats to and from the lower boat bay at the clubhouse (50 M) so a team approach to moving boats will be helpful.

    Trip Coordinator:  <rickvolpel@hotmail.com>

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  • Lower Kananaskis Canoe Meadows to Seebe

    • 11 Jun 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Canoe Meadows to Seebe
    • 25
    Register


    Fun Facts: The Kananaskis River was named by explorer Captain John Palliser in 1858, the name comes from the Cree "Kin-e-a-kis", a warrior who purportedly survived an axe blow to the head.

    Level/Class:  Intermediate   River Class: II 

    Description:  Excellent for practicing eddy turns and ferries. Some tight turns & surf spots. Potential for sweepers 

    Difficulties of Rapids: some ledges with big eddies, " 40 boat eddy", almost continuous whitewater 

    Expected Flow:  Medium   Detailed flows here

    Duration:  Full day   3-4 hours, depending on how long we play in the rapids

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

    Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the put in

    Other Information:  Last year it was extra popular with the solo boaters.

    Trip Coordinator:     S (stevesimonds@shaw.ca)

    Time is TBD, dependent on when participants want


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  • Introduction to Canoe Course

    • 11 Jun 2025
    • 12 Jun 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Carburn Park
    • 8


    This 2 evening canoe course will introduce you to canoeing.  We will spend time learning about canoes, the basic strokes and look ahead to the skills required for both lake and river canoeing. 6:30 to 8:30 pm

    No previous experience is required.

    All necessary equipment Included.

    *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


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  • Tandem River Canoe Course

    • 11 Jun 2025
    • 15 Jun 2025
    • 3 sessions
    • Carburn Park, Bow River
    • 0
    Join waitlist



    Come discover the excitement of River Canoeing. This course will cover all of the strokes required to paddle a canoe down easy flowing rivers. The evening sessions will focus on all the strokes and safety skills required for our river trip on Sunday down the Bow River. You will learn how to perform eddy turns and forward ferries on a Class I river. These skills will provide an excellent foundation when progressing to Class II whitewater.

    No previous experience is required.

    All necessary equipment Included.

    *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


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  • Bow River Harvie to Graves landing (intermediate SUP, Novice Canoe)

    • 14 Jun 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Harvie Passage to Graves Landing
    • 34
    Register

    Fun Facts:  Harvie passage re-opened in 2018

    Level/Class:  Intermediate SUP, Novice+ Canoe

    Description:  Paddle the Bow River through the south of city

    Difficulties of Rapids: None but the Calf Rope bridge has some trickier water. for SUP's due to it's diagonal orientation. 

    Fast flowing water and Bridge pillars

    Expected Flow:  Medium, 

    Duration:  1+ hour

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law, (click here for Link) 

     Bow Waters requires a breakaway leash that doesn't attach to ankle.

    NO ANKLE LEASH ON SUPS in river paddling. 

    Safety page on Ankle Leashes: SUP Safety | Alberta Whitewater Association


    Shuttle:  General information about shuttle, will be organized at put in

    Other Information:   


    Trip Coordinator:  

    Steve Simonds <stevesimonds@shaw.ca>

    Launch time is TBD, other than trip will be completed no later than 3PM because of the club potluck. Trip will be combined with Graves to Bankside if there is interest. Water flow has dropped a lot this week and I don't like doing it when the river gets too slow in a week or so.



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  • Bow River Graves to Fish Creek SUP and other vessels - novice

    • 14 Jun 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Graves to Fish Creek
    Register

    Cycling in Fish Creek Park - Out & About with the GeoKs

    Fun Facts:  The Bow river name comes from the Cree people who used the reeds along its banks to make bows for hunting.

    Level/Class:  Novice 

    This is an excellent skills development trip for novice paddlers along a scenic stretch of the Bow River right through town.

    Description:  Great paddle through the south of Calgary, scenic with a couple other side channels to explore, great spots for lunch or breaks along the river, access to outhouse.

    Difficulties of Rapids:  fast water with bridge pillars 

    Expected Flow: Medium 

    Duration:  1+ hours

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link)  

    Bow Waters requires a breakaway leash that doesn't attach to ankle.

    NO ANKLE LEASH ON SUPS for river paddling. 

    Shuttle:  Launch time is TBD, other than trip will be completed no later than 3 PM because of the potluck.
     Shuttle will be arranged by coordinator.  Take out will be Bankside in Fish Creek Park

    Other Information: The American White Pelican is the second largest bird in NA. Sometimes a flock of them are on this stretch.

    Trip Coordinator:  

    Steve Simonds stevesimonds@shaw.ca

    Trip will be combined with Harvie to Graves if there is interest. Water flow has dropped a lot this week and I don't like doing it when the river gets too slow in a week or so.






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  • Members Potluck

    • 14 Jun 2025
    • 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Bow Waters Clubhouse
    Register

    As the paddling season gears up, come on out and meet your fellow members, share stories of past adventures and those planned.

    Spolumbo sausages (bratwurst, chicken apple or vegetarian burgers), buns, and condiments provided. Spolumbo sausages are gluten free. Salads, snacks, and desserts welcome!  This will be a true potluck so what arrives will be a surprise.

    Let us know if you are attending before June 12, 6:00pm so we can order the food.

    When you sign up let us know if you want bratwurst, chicken apple or vegetarian burgers so that we have an idea of  how much to purchase.

    Please remember to bring your own plates, cup and cutlery. 

    Looking forward to seeing you there!


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  • (Cancelled)Highwood River - Ing's to Longview

    • 15 Jun 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Ing's Creek to Longview
    • 9
    Register



    Fun Facts: The Blackfoot name for the Highwood river is "Ispitsi" referring  to

    the tall cottonwood trees or "   high wood" along its banks.

    Level/Class:  Intermediate +   River 

    Description:  This trip starts in a narrow canyon with beautiful rock formations, many small ledges  good for surfing at medium flow or above

    Difficulties of Rapids: many small ledges, one bigger double ledge, we will stop and scout and which can be portaged. Sweepers and strainers possible.

    Expected Flow: Medium 

    Duration:  Full day

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation.

    Shuttle: Shuttle will be arranged at the meeting point, be prepared to double up boats and distribution of gear and people to leave as many cars at the take out location as possible.

    Other Information:   The day will start with a steep descend down to the riverbed and the boats will be lowered down by rope (rope provided).  Please bring appropriate footwear. 


    Trip Coordinator:  Les Horvath <leshorvath1@telus.net>





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  • Lower Kananaskis - Canoe Meadows to Seebe

    • 15 Jun 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Canoe Meadows to Seebe
    • 8
    Register


    Fun Facts: The Kananaskis River was named by explorer Captain John Palliser in 1858, the name comes from the Cree "Kin-e-a-kis", a warrior who purportedly survived an axe blow to the head.

    Level/Class:  Intermediate   River Class: II 

    Description:  Excellent for practicing eddy turns and ferries. Some tight turns & surf spots. Potential for sweepers 

    Difficulties of Rapids: some ledges with big eddies, " 40 boat eddy", almost continuous whitewater 

    Expected Flow:  Medium   Detailed flows here

    Duration:  Full day   3-4 hours, depending on how long we play in the rapids

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

    Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the put in

    Other Information:  Last year it was extra popular with the solo boaters.

    Trip Coordinator:   Pat M. (pmahaf@telus.net)


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  • Solo River Skills Course

    • 17 Jun 2025
    • 18 Jun 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Carburn Park night 1, Harvey Passage night 2
    • 2
    Register

    Are you struggling to get your Solo Canoe to do what you want it to?  Trouble accelerating, steering, spinning?  

    In this two-evening course, you'll learn essential skills to refine your whitewater paddling skills in a solo canoe. We'll cover practical techniques to help you steer, control your speed, and position yourself for key river moves like crossing the current (ferrying), entering and exiting the current (eddy turns), and riding waves (surfing). Perfect for paddlers looking to build control and confidence on moving water!

    Appropriate for paddlers that can already get down the Bow River at Harvey Passage.

    *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


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  • Solstice - City Paddle-Bow River

    • 21 Jun 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Shouldice Park to Elbow confluence
    Register


    No photo description available.

    Fun Facts: Solstice Trip 

    Level/Class:  Novice 

    Description: Scenic Trip through town from Shouldice Park to the Elbow river confluence with the Bow river

    Difficulties of Rapids: some riffles, bridge pillars and the occasional rock

    Expected Flow: Low to Medium  Typical flow volume for late June ranges between 150-260 cubic metres per second. Detailed flows here

    Duration:  evening , 12 Km

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) 

    Shuttle:  General information about shuttle. Details below in "Additional Information"

    Other Information:  The water is likely to be approximately 10˚C. 

    There may be rafts and fisher folk along our route. It is always wise to bring a full change of clothing inside a waterproof bag. 

    Trip Coordinator:  Jim Sangster    jcsangster@shaw.ca  

    Trip Co-cordinator:  Jack K.  jackk@infosolve.net (Jim will not be able to attend the event, but will answer questions ahead of time while Jack is away)






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  • Canada Day Weekend on the Red Deer River

    • 27 Jun 2025
    • 10:00 AM
    • 1 Jul 2025
    • Red Deer River, camping at Alisons property east of Joffre
    Register

    Red Deer River - Alberta Wilderness Association

    Fun Facts:  The Red Deer River is  724 km (450 mi) long river in Alberta and a small portion of Saskatchewan, known for its "elk river" origins, flowing through Banff National Park, Dinosaur Provincial Park, and the cities of Red Deer and Drumheller. 

    Level/Class:  Novice   

    Description:  Paddle through the majestic Badlands, see below proposed plan

    Difficulties of Rapids:  slow moving water

    Expected Flow: Medium  Detailed flows here

    Duration:   multi days

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) 

    Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged daily from campsite

    Other Information: The  Milk River is not scheduled to have water flowing again until September 2025. As such, Allison has once again offered to host us at her and John’s property East of Red Deer. We are also inviting the Ceyana club from Edmonton. Precise location will be shared on your registration confirmation. Arrive either Friday afternoon or Saturday morning.

      If Multi-day trip :

    • Daily Camp locations: Allison and John's property East of Red Deer
    • Recommended Camping Gear
    • Potluck instructions: either Saturday or Sunday
    • Group gear: The camping field is about 0.5 ha (≈ 1 acre) with a picnic shelter and outhouse. The field is large enough to host a great many tents or trailers. You will need to bring your own water.
    • Any costs (camping, shuttle)

    Trip Coordinator: Don Michell (don.keith.mitchell@gmail.com)

    • Proposed Plan:

      1. Saturday – Various o;ptions for put in. Take out at Joffre bridge.

        • Canyon Ski Hill (9 km)

        • Burbank campground (18 km)

        • Riverbend boat launch (28 km)

        • Or other

      2. Sunday - Joffre bridge to the Ireland’s property (30 km)

        • Park at the Joffre Bridge day use area

        • drag the boats onto their property out of sight at the end of the paddle

        • walk up to the camping field (≈ 800 M)

        • Potluck in picnic shelter (or on Saturday)

      3. Monday – the Ireland’s to Content bridge (20 km)

        • Park the vehicles at the Content campground.

        • Walk back down to the river


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  • Bow River - Banff to Canmore

    • 27 Jun 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Banff to Canmore
    Register



    Join us on a very scenic reach of the Bow River from Banff to Canmore. Solid intermediate paddling requiring skill to avoid sweepers and log jams. 

    Fun Facts:  The Bow River flows from Bow Lake through the Canadian Rocky Mountains and ultimately flows into the South Saskatchewan River in southern Alberta.  It is 587 km long.

    Level/Class:  Intermediate    River Class: II+.   Several rapids in the first 4 km, but putting in below rapids is an option.

    Description:  A very scenic trip in the mountains. 

    Difficulties of Rapids:   Fast water, Sweepers ands log jams 

    Expected Flow:  Medium 

    Duration:  Full Day.  22-25 km

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC - Helmet and Floatation

    Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the meeting point

    Other Information:   Put-in is below Bow Falls & take-out is at highway bridge beyond Canmore

    Invasive Species Prevention - read more HERE

    Trip Coordinator:   Pat Mahaffey (pmahaf@telus.net)



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  • Lower Kananaskis Mondays (except Holidays)

    • 7 Jul 2025
    • 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Canoe Meadows to Seebe
    • 25
    Register


    Fun Facts: The Kananskis River was named by explorer Captain John Palliser in 1858, the name comes from the Cree "Kin-e-a-kis", a warrior who purportedly survived an axe blow to the head.

    Level/Class:  Intermediate   River Class: II 

    Description:  Excellent for practising eddy turns and ferries. Some tight turns & surf spots. Potential for sweepers 

    Difficulties of Rapids: some ledges with big eddies, " 40 boat eddy", almost continuous whitewater 

    Expected Flow:  Medium   Detailed flows here

    Duration:  Full day   3-4 hours, depending on how long we play in the rapids

    Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

    Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the put in

    Other Information:  Last year it was extra popular with the solo boaters.

    These re-occurring trips are dependent on signups (as always) and flow (as usual, this varied a lot last year). Tina will check flows and email registrants 1-2 days ahead of time.

    Please register by the latest on the Saturday before the Monday!

    Note, we are not paddling on holiday Mondays!

    Trip Coordinator:  Barzo, Tina (tinabarzo@hotmail.com)



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  • Introduction to Canoe Course

    • 9 Jul 2025
    • 10 Jul 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Carburn Park
    • 8
    Register


    This 2 evening canoe course will introduce you to canoeing.  We will spend time learning about canoes, the basic strokes and look ahead to the skills required for both lake and river canoeing. 6:30 to 8:30 pm

    No previous experience is required.

    All necessary equipment Included.

    *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


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  • Canoe Meadows Campout

    • 11 Jul 2025
    • 11:00 AM
    • 13 Jul 2025
    • 4:00 PM
    • Kananaskis Country - Canoe Meadows Campground
    Register

    Canoe Meadows Campground - Kananaskis | Alberta Whitewater Association

    Fun Facts: Canoe Meadows is the day use site for a number of different paddling events hosted each year! (New for this year: cell phone signal). 


    Level/Class:  All levels: Novice, Intermediate and Advanced trips available.   

    River Class: I, II, II+, III


    Description:  Annual Kananaskis Campout at Canoe Meadows

    There will be a variety of rivers trips posted: Upper Kananaskis, Lower Kananaskis, Bow river Exshaw to Seebe, Barrier Lake etc. 


    Difficulties of Rapids: several to none depending on the section paddled


    Expected Flow: Medium detailed flows here


    Duration:  Weekend or part weekend. Day trip options will be posted. 


    Equipment:  Required equipment by law: PFD, Bailer, Whistle, Throw bag. (click here for Link).

    Required by BWCC for class II rivers and higher:  Helmet and Boat Floatation.


    Camping equipment: Self contained.  Water onsite is from a hand pump or from Barrier Lake info centre. (i.e. Bring your own drinking water). Outhouses on site.  Food storage and enclosed picnic shelter and picnic tables are available. AWA canoe meadows groups site info:  Canoe meadows AWA: 

    Camping units vary from a variety of tents, RV's, vans, or just sleep under your canoe (we don't judge). 


    Shuttle: Shuttles will be arranged each morning at campsite


    Other Information:  Check out the 2024 Campout trip report.    

    Arrive after 11 am on July 11

    Checkout at 4pm on July 13. 


    The Provincial Slalom Kayak group will be finishing on the day of our arrival. 


     ***This event takes place in Kananaskis Park and requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass in addition to camping fees. The pass is available for each  personal vehicle based on single days ($15/day), or an annual pass ($90).   Please see the Alberta Parks Kananaskis conservation-pass website for more details and instructions for purchasing a pass. 


    Potluck: We will have a Potluck on Saturday night, Watch your email for further details.


    Costs: Camping costs are $20/unit per night ($40 for the weekend)

    Thank-you to BWCC for subsidizing $6 per camping unit per night. 


    Registration -  indicate the nights you are staying over or just out for the day and who you are camping with. 


    Ticket purchase options:  $20 per tent/van/trailer for one night, $40 for two nights or $0 if you are not staying over (please still register). 


      Trip Coordinators:  Evan Jones <evanfi@telusplanet.net> and Rick Volpel


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    • Highwood River - Ing's to Longview

      • 12 Jul 2025
      • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
      • Ing's Creek to Longview
      • 10
      Register



      Fun Facts: The Blackfoot name for the Highwood river is "Ispitsi" referring  to

      the tall cottonwood trees or "   high wood" along its banks.

      Level/Class:  Intermediate +   River 

      Description:  This trip starts in a narrow canyon with beautiful rock formations, many small ledges  good for surfing at medium flow or above

      Difficulties of Rapids: many small ledges, one bigger double ledge, we will stop and scout and which can be portaged. Sweepers and strainers possible.

      Expected Flow: Medium 

      Duration:  Full day

      Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation.

      Shuttle: Shuttle will be arranged at the meeting point, be prepared to double up boats and distribution of gear and people to leave as many cars at the take out location as possible.

      Other Information:   The day will start with a steep descend down to the riverbed and the boats will be lowered down by rope (rope provided).  Please bring appropriate footwear. 


      Trip Coordinator:  

      Les Horvath <leshorvath1@telus.net>




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    • Lower Kananaskis Mondays (except Holidays)

      • 14 Jul 2025
      • 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
      • Canoe Meadows to Seebe
      • 25
      Register


      Fun Facts: The Kananskis River was named by explorer Captain John Palliser in 1858, the name comes from the Cree "Kin-e-a-kis", a warrior who purportedly survived an axe blow to the head.

      Level/Class:  Intermediate   River Class: II 

      Description:  Excellent for practising eddy turns and ferries. Some tight turns & surf spots. Potential for sweepers 

      Difficulties of Rapids: some ledges with big eddies, " 40 boat eddy", almost continuous whitewater 

      Expected Flow:  Medium   Detailed flows here

      Duration:  Full day   3-4 hours, depending on how long we play in the rapids

      Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

      Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the put in

      Other Information:  Last year it was extra popular with the solo boaters.

      These re-occurring trips are dependent on signups (as always) and flow (as usual, this varied a lot last year). Tina will check flows and email registrants 1-2 days ahead of time.

      Please register by the latest on the Saturday before the Monday!

      Note, we are not paddling on holiday Mondays!

      Trip Coordinator:  Barzo, Tina (tinabarzo@hotmail.com)




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    • Tandem River Canoe Course

      • 16 Jul 2025
      • 20 Jul 2025
      • 3 sessions
      • Carburn Park, Bow River
      • 7
      Register



      Come discover the excitement of River Canoeing. This course will cover all of the strokes required to paddle a canoe down easy flowing rivers. The evening sessions will focus on all the strokes and safety skills required for our river trip on Sunday down the Bow River. You will learn how to perform eddy turns and forward ferries on a Class I river. These skills will provide an excellent foundation when progressing to Class II whitewater.

      No previous experience is required.

      All necessary equipment Included.

      *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


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    • Whitewater Canoeing Course

      • 19 Jul 2025
      • 20 Jul 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • TBD
      • 0
      Join waitlist

      Wanna have more fun!? This course takes the next step into the realm of whitewater canoeing. Designed for paddlers looking to expand their skills and increase their enjoyment on a greater variety of rivers. Saturday, we fine tune our river skills on flat water and a Class I+ river. On Sunday we will run a Grade II+ river where we can apply our skills to faster moving water. We will focus on eddy turns and ferries, practice linking turns and river reading.

      Prerequisites:  Participants should be competent on Class II rivers and be familiar with Ferries and Eddy Turns.

      Equipment:  Participants are responsible for their own equipment.  End and center floatation are mandatory.

      *** Bow Waters Canoe Club and RMPC generously subsidize this course to promote safety, skill development, and fun on the water. In return, we encourage you to give back by volunteering;  coordinating trips;  or joining the board, and maintaining your membership for years to come.


      Show details

    • Lower Kananaskis Mondays (except Holidays)

      • 28 Jul 2025
      • 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
      • Canoe Meadows to Seebe
      • 25
      Register


      Fun Facts: The Kananskis River was named by explorer Captain John Palliser in 1858, the name comes from the Cree "Kin-e-a-kis", a warrior who purportedly survived an axe blow to the head.

      Level/Class:  Intermediate   River Class: II 

      Description:  Excellent for practising eddy turns and ferries. Some tight turns & surf spots. Potential for sweepers 

      Difficulties of Rapids: some ledges with big eddies, " 40 boat eddy", almost continuous whitewater 

      Expected Flow:  Medium   Detailed flows here

      Duration:  Full day   3-4 hours, depending on how long we play in the rapids

      Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

      Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged at the put in

      Other Information:  Last year it was extra popular with the solo boaters.

      These re-occurring trips are dependent on signups (as always) and flow (as usual, this varied a lot last year). Tina will check flows and email registrants 1-2 days ahead of time.

      Please register by the latest on the Saturday before the Monday!

      Note, we are not paddling on holiday Mondays!

      Trip Coordinator:  Barzo, Tina (tinabarzo@hotmail.com)



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    • North Saskatchewan - Nordegg to Rocky

      • 1 Aug 2025
      • 1:00 PM
      • 4 Aug 2025
      • Nordegg to Rocky Mountain House
      Register




      Fun Fact: the North Saskatchewan River a 1,287 km long river that originates in the Columbia Icefield and flows into Hudson Bay,

      Lake Sturgeon are the largest and longest living fish in the river. There is no mistaking the sturgeon with its long whiskers (barbels) and the five rows of bony plates, called scutes, along its body

      Level/Class:  Intermediate paddling with camping.   River Class is up to II, however all features can be avoided. 

      Description:  This stretch  of the North Saskatchewan is a scenic paddle through the foothills and forest of the eastern slopes.  We will be random camping (no services) along the banks of the river. 

      Nordegg to Rocky is an ideal trip to up your canoe camping skills. You always have the option to miss any of the named features.

      Difficulties of Rapids: There are multiple rapids up to Class II and one ledge at Saunters. All of these features are readily avoided generally by taking the inside bend line. Therefore you can make this as exciting or mellow as you choose! River reading skills are required. Sweepers and Strainers are common.

      Expected Flow:  The flow is typically Medium this time of year. See River Flows for realtime flow data

      Duration:  This is a four day trip from Friday to Monday. 

      Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation

      Shuttle:  There will be a shuttle organized between Rocky and Nordegg, typically with a cost that will be shared by participants.

      Other Information:   Bring clothing for all weather and river conditions

      This year I am thinking of paddling about 2 hours on the Friday to avoid the not so ideal camping at the put in. Also, those that cannot take Friday off can still join us at Saunders. See itinerary below. Saunders Provincial Recreation Area 

      If Multi-day trip: 

      • Daily Camp locations: Day 1: 52°24'43.4"N 115°51'23.1"W
      •                                            Day 2: 52°26'27.1"N 115°36'52.8"W
      •                                            Day 3: 52°24'58.0"N 115°15'18.9"W
      • Recommended BackCountry Camping Gear, Water can be filtered from the river
      • Group gear: TBA
      • Any costs (shuttle): TBA

      Itinerary:

      Friday:

      • Meet upstream of  Aylmer Provincial Recreation Area 

      • Paddle 18 Km to  52°24'43.4"N 115°51'23.1"W

      Saturday:

      • Paddle to Saunders (52°24'43.6"N 115°51'23.6"W) and meet those starting there.

      • Paddle as one group to about (52°26'27.1"N 115°36'52.8"W) for a total of 25 km

      Sunday:

      • Paddle to Devil's Elbow (52°24'58.0"N 115°15'18.9"W) (23 km)

      Monday:

      • Paddle to Rocky Mountain House (52°22'34.2"N 114°56'21.7"W) (30 km)

      See 2024  DETAILED trip report for lots of info/pictures on this fantastic trip!

      Trip Coordinator:  Don Mitchell (don.keith.mitchell@gmail.com)





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    • North Saskatchewan - Join Group at Saunders

      • 2 Aug 2025
      • 1:00 PM
      • 4 Aug 2025
      • Saunters to Rocky Mountain House

      *** Saunders Provincial Recreation Area to Rocky Mountain House:  

      This calendar entry is only a reminder that you can join the Nordegg to Rocky group at Saunders if you are not able to take the Friday off. 

      Please register on the North Saskatchewan - Nordegg to Rocky Trip, not here!  Let Don know your plans!


      Nordegg to Rocky is an ideal trip to up your canoe camping skills. You always have the option to miss any of the named features.


      Trip Coordinator:  Don Mitchell (don.keith.mitchell@gmail.com)





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    • Club Night. Tina Barzo. "Women's River Trip"

      • 3 Sep 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
      • BWCC Club House

      Open to members and the public.  Doors open at 6:30 pm. 

      Come on out and hear BWCC President, Tina Barzo, report on her annual women's get-away on the water.

      Remote access via this Zoom link

      (Meeting ID: 873 7659 4078 & Passcode: 3828320)

      Show details

    • AQ Outdoors Sale for Bow Waters Members!

      • 14 Sep 2025
      • 10:00 AM
      • AQ Outdoors - 5063 11 St SE, Calgary, AB

      AQ Outdoors is having a one day sale exclusively for club members!

      Be sure to swing by and take advantage of the sale!  


      AQ Outdoors will have additional sales  on four additional days throughout the year, check the events calendar!

      Website: AQ Outdoors

      Location: AQ Outdoors Location

      Show details

    • Club Night. Jim Sangster. "Sea Kayaking on the West Coast"

      • 1 Oct 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
      • BWCC Club House

      Open to members and the public.  Doors open at 6:30 pm. 

      Remote access via this Zoom link

      (Meeting ID: 873 7659 4078 & Passcode: 3828320)

      Show details

    • AGM & Club Night

      • 5 Nov 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
      • BWCC Club House

      Open to members and the public. 

      Show details

    • Paddle event Template - DUPLICATE me, see button on right -->>>

      • 1 Dec 2025
      • 10:00 AM
      • Stretch of River here
      Register

      Fun Facts: This should contain a line about the surrounding area, reason for the name of a feature, historic fact, or ecosystem. 

      Level/Class:  Novice Intermediate Advanced;   River Class: (I II II+ III) (can also say things like “good trip for a novice to advance to intermediate…”)

      Description:  General Trip Description, eg surfing, eddies, scenery etc.

      Difficulties of Rapids: describe key rapids and obstacles

      Expected Flow: Low / Medium /High (cms forecast if known) Detailed flows here

      Duration:  Half day / day / multi days.   Optionally distance and/or hours on river

      Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation 

      Shuttle:  General information about shuttle. Details below in "Additional Information"

      Other Information:   unique considerations or info.  If Multi-day trip :

      • Daily Camp locations. 
      • Recommended Camping Gear
      • Potluck instructions if applicable
      • Group gear
      • Any costs (camping, shuttle)

        Trip Coordinator:  <coordinator name and email>

        Show details

      • Club Night ** Details TBA **

        • 3 Dec 2025
        • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
        • BWCC Club House

        Open to members and the public. 

        Show details

      • AQ Outdoors Sale for Bow Waters Members!

        • 7 Dec 2025
        • 10:00 AM
        • AQ Outdoors - 5063 11 St SE, Calgary, AB

        AQ Outdoors is having a one day sale exclusively for club members!

        Be sure to swing by and take advantage of the sale!  


        AQ Outdoors will have additional sales  on four additional days throughout the year, check the events calendar!

        Website: AQ Outdoors

        Location: AQ Outdoors Location

        Show details

      • Coordinator Needed: Highwood River - Ing's to Longview

        • 4 Jan 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • Ing's Creek to Longview
        • 10



        Fun Facts: The Blackfoot name for the Highwood river is "Ispitsi" referring  to

        the tall cottonwood trees or "   high wood" along its banks.

        Level/Class:  Intermediate +   River 

        Description:  This trip starts in a narrow canyon with beautiful rock formations, many small ledges  good for surfing at medium flow or above

        Difficulties of Rapids: many small ledges, one bigger double ledge, we will stop and scout and which can be portaged. Sweepers and strainers possible.

        Expected Flow: Medium 

        Duration:  Full day

        Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Floatation.

        Shuttle: Shuttle will be arranged at the meeting point, be prepared to double up boats and distribution of gear and people to leave as many cars at the take out location as possible.

        Other Information:   The day will start with a steep descend down to the riverbed and the boats will be lowered down by rope (rope provided).  Please bring appropriate footwear. 


        Trip Coordinator:  <coordinator name and email>





        Show details

      Upcoming Bow Waters Events

      About Bow Waters Events

      Our paddling trips are classified into Novice, Intermediate and Advanced levels. Please ensure you have the skills to paddle the trips you are signing up for. Unsure? No problem, talk to the coordinator to get some additional insights. 

      A reminder that our trips are not guided. The coordinator is only responsible for the organization of the trip. We are common adventurers and as such are responsible for our selves and our own safety.  

      For on-water trips please make sure you have read, understood and signed our annual waiver.

      (color mgmt in here)

      Useful Links

       Phone (403) 235-2922    Email:   info@bowwaters.org       

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