The first time I went river rafting, it was on an out-of-town vacation. I ended up soaked from head to toe because the raft lopsided in the middle of the river. Thank God I know how to swim and was able to get back on my raft.
By the time I got back to the shore, the raft rental staff just gave me that awkward smile as if they’d seen this happen to others.
Since that experience, I’ve gone a few more times with friends in our own city. We found places that actually go over safety rules, provide life jackets, and offer more.
Here’s a list of the best places to go when you want to go rafting in Calgary!
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1. Lazy Day Raft Rentals
Media credit: lazydayraftrentals
Website
Address: 720 3 St NW
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Phone: +1 403-258-0575
Price: $$$
Lazy Day Raft Rentals has an awesome fleet of rafts. From their sleek new MRS Nomad S1 packraft (perfect for solo paddlers or pairs) to their massive 12-person rafts, there’s a raft for everyone.
Their self-bailing rafts for larger groups mean no soggy gear, and they have a convenient optional shuttle service.
The river journey itself starts at West Baker Park and winds up at Prince’s Island Park’s footbridge.
A friend and I tried the Nomad S1 and loved the lightweight design. It made maneuvering the Bow’s gentle currents effortless. Plus, the padded seats kept us comfy even during our three-hour float.
Pro Tip: Book the shuttle early—it’s a summer favorite and sells out fast.
2. Riverside Rafting
Media credit: riverside_rafting
Website
Address: 1404 Home Rd NW
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Phone: +1 587-433-3752
Price: $$$
Riverside Rafting is the answer for families or first-timers who want convenient rafting. My group loved the stress-free setup. All we had to do was book online and fill out all the waivers.
When we arrived at Shouldice Park, we had to listen to a quick safety briefing before making our way to St. Patrick’s Island.
Their heavy-duty, self-bailing rafts are built for stability. There’s no wobbling, even when you decide to “test” the edges.
The route itself is a mix of calm waters and light ripples, perfect for snapping photos of the riverbanks’ wildlife or just zoning out.
Pro Tip: Bring your ID and credit card—they’re required for the damage form.
3. The Paddle Station
Media credit: paddlestation
Website
Address: 5227 13 Ave NW
Hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 12 PM to 6 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Phone: +1 888-988-7238
Price: $$$
Paddle Station has fun, awesome, round rafts that are perfect for groups. They fit 2 to 6 people comfortably.
My crew of four piled into one, and I have to admit it was quite fun as we spun lazily downstream Bow River.
The company’s vibe is laid-back, but they’re serious about their gear. You’ll get free emergency kits and life jackets that don’t feel like straitjackets. The raft itself is made of high-quality vinyl and stays fairly dry.
Pro Tip: They charge a late fee for every hour past your rental time that you’re still out on the river.
4. Toms Tours-Raft Rentals
Media credit: tomstours.ca
Website
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Phone: +1 250-580-2583
Price: $$$
Tom’s Tours has a quick river-skills test for you that you have to take before you get on the river. This is so that newbies can navigate the Bow River confidently.
My group reserved one of their three-person rafts and found it sturdy but a bit snug. So, if you don’t want a tight fit, just get a bigger raft size.
The river route itself starts off at Bowness Park. It ends just before the Peace Bridge, where you can dock hassle-free. I really like how the route snakes past different places in the city
Pro Tip: Park at the Peace Bridge’s 8th Street lot first—it’s cheaper and closer than street parking.
