Bow River

The Bow River runs through Calgary, and from here you can relax and enjoy some of the sights along the river.

Basically you do one of two "trips." Each takes a good amount of time, about half of a day. You could do both in a day, but start early, as the temperature usually cools right down in the evening. You will need equipment, however. SportsRent of the University Outdoor Centre can rent gear out for pretty cheap. You need lifejackets, both for safety and not getting slapped with a hefty ticket (last I heard $500) from bylaw officers. Also, get caught with beer or other booze and thats a HYOOGE fine too.

Option A) Prepare ahead by leaving one car at where you plan to get off the river, then drive to start point. Starting at Bowness Park (48 Ave and 88 St NW) @ Stoney Trail overpass, plop in your raft, strap the vests, grab your snacks and set afloat! If more than one raft, don't tie them together, for safety's sake. Along this route, goes past Downtown, good views. Last point to get out at Inglewood, 12 St and 8 Ave SE.

IMPORTANT: Get out BEFORE the weir at Calgary Zoo/Cushing River, or face certain DEATH.

Option B) Get in after the weir. Try Blackfoot Tr/Deerfoot area. (W Blackfoot, turn right on 17A St, then onto gravel rd and get your gear set). Good scenes along this way, more landscape, less cityscape. Get out at Fish Creek Park at the end of Bow Bottom Trail(quite a long route). Boat launch there, so good place to park, or get picked up!

Smooth sailing!