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• Tandem River Canoe Course

  • Start
    2 Jun 2026
  •  
  • End
    6 Jun 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park, Bow River
  • Spaces left
    5

  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 Saturday 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.  No partner needed

  All necessary equipment Included.

  Two evenings (6:30 to 8:30 pm) AND one Saturday.

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email (treasurerbwcc@gmail.com) with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  
  

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• Flat Water Drills Seebe or Dead Mans - Wednesdays

  • When
    3 Jun 2026
  •  
    4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Seebe Dam or Dead Mans
  • Spaces left
    24

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Expectation: The main goal is to practice solo skills, so time will be spent on flatwater if at Seebe or very slow-moving water if at Dead Man's - with floaties. Bring your dinner or at least snacks. Obviously, this would best serve any member who is interested and lives in the Bow Valley (Canmore, Banff) or someone coming out for the day to do other things and wants to join in this in the evening!

  Fun Facts: We will try to integrate some informal instruction, and fun challenges that will help us "practice harder moves on easy water."
  

  Level/Class: Novice+

  Expected Flow: Medium   Detailed flows here

  Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on how long we want to do drills for...

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

  Shuttle: Not needed - it's park and play

  Trip Coordinator: Tina Barzo tinabarzo@hotmail.com or 403-763-7036

  
  

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• Club Night - From the Lower Kan to Sarapanqui, Costa Rica (and the importance of a helmet) - Public Welcome!

  • When
    3 Jun 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    Bow Waters Club House

  Join us for our June Club Meeting! 

  This presentation is for everyone who has said:

  "Those play-boats look like fun"

  or

  "I want to get out and paddle more.... but I have no one to go with"

  or 

  "I would like to learn to do some bigger water"

  

  Rose will share her relatively short journey of learning how to paddle an open canoe solo playboat  (Spring 2024 to Jan 2026)

  But for those already competent in the world of white water playboats....  this presentation will highlight the fantastic fun 6 days of paddling white water in CostaRica ..... and the importance of a good helmet. 

  
  

  Public is welcome!

  
  

  Remote access via this Zoom link

  (Meeting ID: 873 7659 4078 & Passcode: 382832)

  
  

  
  

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• Southern Alberta Rivers: Belly, Waterton & St Mary's - Cancelled due to high river flows

  • Start
    3 Jun 2026
  •  
    9:00 PM
  • End
    5 Jun 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    Belly, St Mary's and Waterton Rivers
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  

  Rivers:  Belly, Waterton and St Mary’s.

   

  Paddling Days:  June 3, 4 & 5.

   

  Meeting Place:  Payne Lake Provincial Recreation Area. 

   

  Sections to Paddle : 

  Waterton River from reservoir dam to highway #810.

  Belly River from highway #5 to highway #800.

  St Mary’s River from rafters lunch site to Kimble campsite.

   

  River Grades:  Intermediate

   

  Difficulty of Rapids:  Class II+.

   

  Logistics:  Plan to camp for 3 nights at the Payne Lake Provincial Recreation Area and begin car shuttle each day from that location, leaving at around 9:00 am. 

   

  Camping:  Participants will need to make their own camping reservations at Payne Lake for the nights of June 2, 3 & 4.   I have booked site B18.

   

  General Comments:  We will begin with the Waterton River, followed by the Belly and end with the St Mary’s.  However, paddling plans will depend on river flow rates at the time.

   

  Boats & Gear:  At the expected level, this section of the river is suitable for river kayaks, solo canoes with floatation and doubles canoes with floatation.  Important pieces of gear include a life jacket, helmet, throw bag, bailer or pump, and a wet suite or dry suite.

  
  

  Trip Coordinator:  John Gapp  cell: 403-370-8321 email:  johngapp@shaw.ca>

  Emergency Action Plans:

  EAP Waterton River - Waterton Park to Waterton Hutterite Colony   

  EAP Belly River - Highway 5 to Highway 800   

  EAP EAP St Mary's River Kimball Run  
  

  /EAP%20St%20Mary's%20River%20Kimball%20Run.pdf

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• River Rescue Course

  • Start
    6 Jun 2026
  •  
  • End
    7 Jun 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    TBD
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  Learn essential rescue skills for moving water! This course covers key safety concepts, including how to assess risks, work as a team, and make safe rescue decisions. You'll practice using a throw rope to help someone in trouble, safely wading through currents, and swimming defensively in fast water. We'll also introduce live bait rescues (where a rescuer enters the water on a rope) and mechanical advantage systems like the Z-drag to move heavy objects. Perfect for paddlers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who spends time on the river!

  Appropriate for all levels of paddlers.  

  Do not confuse this course with the Canoe Rescue Course (regarding canoe handling)

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email treasurer@bowwaters.ca with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  
  

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• Rosebud River

  • When
    6 Jun 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Rosebud River Taylor Siding near Dalum

  Register

  Come on out and join us on an enjoyable paddle combined with wildlife viewing and photography.  River is windy.  We feel as we are in an grassy safari

  Level/Class:  Novice Paddling

  Description:  Paddling the Rosebud River in Alberta is a serene, scenic, and unique experience, often described as an "oasis" trip through the stunning Canadian Badlands. This shallow river offers a gentle, meandering journey through dramatic steep-walled canyons

  Difficulties of Rapids:  Depending on quantity of water, there are no significant rapids on this section of the river, however there is a tricky S bend and low lying branches on river left. The river can be shallow with sand bars at times. Back paddling at times, dodging rocks and gravel bars. Good practice with steering will be needed and will be practiced. 

  Expected Flow: Expect Medium flow (for the Rosebud river) at this time of year.  Detailed flows here

  Duration:  Half day / day .   Optionally distance and/or hours on river will vary depending on the sections we choose.

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

  Shuttle:  The trip coordinator will reach out to discuss prior to the trip

  Other Information:   

  Canoes, kayaks and SUP welcome. 

  Car Camping at Wayne Community Campground.  Laura can hold your site with $$ you send her.  2 very serviced outhouses and eating shelter available.  Campground is along the Rosebud River.   No cell service however service is available about 2 klms prior.

  Trip Coordinator:  Laura Hart, lkrevents1@gmail.com, 403 277 1599

  
  

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• Introduction to Canoe Course

  • Start
    10 Jun 2026
  •  
  • End
    11 Jun 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park
  • Spaces left
    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. No partner needed.

  All necessary equipment Included.

  Two evening Course, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
  

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by emailing treasurerbwcc@gmail.com with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  Show details
• Harvie Passage Evening

  • When
    11 Jun 2026
  •  
    5:30 PM
  • Location
    Harvey Passage by Inglewood on the Bow River

  Register

  Fun Facts: Harvie Passage was reconstructed after the 2013 floods
  

  Level/Class:  Intermediate Paddling   River Class: (II II+ )  

  Description:  This is a great place to practice your moving water and  whitewater paddling skills. The center section is great for practicing eddy turns and ferrying. The drops are fun surfing and more advanced moves!

  Difficulties of Rapids: The center section is class I+, most of the site is class II or II+

  Expected Flow: Medium. Detailed flows here

  Duration:  Half day

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

  Shuttle:  No shuttle required. Park in the lot, carry or wheel your boat to the put in at the top of the section.

  Other Information:   Join us after work for some fun and practice!

  Trip Coordinator:  Carol sulis.clan@gmail.com

  Show details
• Members BBQ and Potluck

  • When
    13 Jun 2026
  •  
    5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Bow Waters Club House

  Register

  Come on out to our Members' BBQ and Potluck!

  To ensure we have enough sausage, please sign-up by June 10.

  ** List your family/party members separately. **

  Meet at the clubhouse and connect/reconnect with club members known and
  

  new-to-you.

  The Club will be providing Spolumbo sausages (English Bangers or Chicken Apple) or vegetarian, buns, and condiments.

  Bring a dish to share with 10-15 people and beverage of your choosing AND any plates, cutlery you'll need. If you have specific dietary preferences, we will do our best to accommodate your request. Example: Jane Smith (vegetarian)

  While we will aim to be operational by 5:30 pm, if you arrive early, you can help set-up. ;-)

  BBQ Coordinator: Flegal, Colleen  ( we3flegals@shaw.ca )

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Board Meeting

  • When
    17 Jun 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

  Of Note: we have changed these meetings to the third Wednesday of the month.

  Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at info@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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• Summer Solstice on the Lower Red Deer River

  • Start
    19 Jun 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    21 Jun 2026
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    Red Deer River, camping at Alisons property east of Joffre

  Register

  

  Join us for a wonderful weekend of paddling and camaraderie! This is novice paddling and great fun camping. This trip has quickly become a club favourite!

  Fun Facts:  The Red Deer River is  724 km long river in Alberta and a small portion of Saskatchewan, flowing through Banff National Park, Dinosaur Provincial Park, and the cities of Red Deer and Drumheller. 

  Not So Fun Fact: The proposed site for a new dam on the Red Deer is immediately below the Ireland's property.

  Level/Class:  Novice   

  Description:  Paddle the meandering Red Deer River through majestic Badlands. Much fun camping and story telling, with a pot luck Saturday Evening

  Difficulties of Rapids:  None. Slow moving water.

  Expected Flow: Medium.  Detailed flows here

  Duration:  Each day we will determine a section of river to paddle. Typically 3 to 5 hours on the water with breaks. 

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

  Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged daily from campsite. 

  Other Information: The Ireland's have once again offered to host us at their property East of Red Deer. We will once again invite the Ceyana club from Edmonton. Precise location will be shared on your registration confirmation. Arrive either Friday or Saturday mornings. You are most welcome even if you do not plan to paddle. There are awesome hiking trails with amazing bird life to view.

  • Daily Camp locations: Allison and John's property East of Red Deer
  • Recommended Camping Gear for site (car) camping
  • Potluck Saturday evening
  • Group gear: The camping field is about 0.5 ha (≈ 1 acre) with a picnic shelter and 2 outhouses. The field is large enough to host a great many tents or trailers. You will need to bring your own water.

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

  
  

  Proposed Paddling Plan:

  • 1. Friday – Various options 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. Saturday- 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

       • Celebrate the Summer solstice (2:24 am Sunday)

    3. Sunday – 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 - Lake Louise to Castle Junction

  • When
    20 Jun 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Lake Louise to Castle Junction

  Register

  
  

  Fun Facts:  The Bow river flows from Bow Lake through the Canadian Rocky

  Mountains and ultimately going onto the South Saskatchewan River and is 587

  km long

  Level/Class:  Intermediate    River Class: II+ rapids at the start, put in below is an option

  Description:  A very scenic trip in the mountains. We will be counting Harlequin ducks for Parks Canada, an indicator species of high-quality

  mountain streams, and a species of concern.

  Difficulties of Rapids:  Rapids at the start with continuous whitewater, then fast water, option to put in below rapid, Potential for sweepers and  logjams

  Expected Flow:  Medium 

  Duration:  Full Day.  29 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:   

  We will be counting Harlequin ducks for Parks Canada, an indicator species of high-quality

  mountain streams, and a species of concern.

  Read more HERE (scroll down and click on the Lake Louise to Castle section)

  We will also need to follow clean, drain dry and certify protocol!

  Read more HERE

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

  Emergency Action Plan Here

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Created by Patrick M. via TripCreationWidget on Fri Apr 24 2026 12:34:22 GMT-0600 (Mountain Daylight Saving Time).

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• Canoe Rescue Course

  • Start
    23 Jun 2026
  •  
  • End
    24 Jun 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park, Bow River
  • Spaces left
    7

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Canoe Rescue

  The aim of this program is to provide a workshop format for canoeists to learn, develop and most of all practice commonly used skills to rescue a canoe from the river.  We will be approaching these skills from three typical rescue settings: on shore, in boat, and in the water.  This course is for both tandem and solo canoeists.  First session is on flatwater and the second will be on a class I river.

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email treasurerbwcc@gmail.com with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  
  

  Show details
• Red Deer River meets South Saskatchewan River

  • Start
    25 Jun 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    28 Jun 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    Bindloss Alberta to Estuary Ferry, Saskatchewan

  Register

  Fun Facts: A book has been suggested for us to read by Irene Spry called the Palliser Expedition. It is with regards to the meeting of 2 rivers - Red Deer and South Saskatchewan
  

  Level/Class:  Novice 

  Description:  A continuation of the badlands spreading to rolling hills and prairies. 

  Difficulties of Rivers:  Some quickness around bends, good use of steering strokes, some gravel bars, rocks.

  Expected Flow: Low / Medium  here

  Duration:  Half day / day  Length of time on rivers will average 4 to 5 hours, options for exploring / playing will extend this time.

  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:  will be provided once you register

  • 1 camp location
  • Potluck 
  • Group gear
  • Any costs (camping, shuttle)

  Trip Coordinator:  Laura Hart, lkrevents1@gmail.com or text 403-277-1599

  Show details
• Lower Kananaskis Friday Runs (except long weekends)

  • When
    26 Jun 2026
  •  
    4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Canoe Meadows to Seebe
  • Spaces left
    25

  Register

  Expectation: The main goal is to practice solo skills, so time will be spent in the 40-boat eddy and that area before going down the full run. We highly recommend full drysuits! We will be working up to doing the upper Kan on Fridays, starting in July. Bring your dinner or at least snacks for the stop along the way!

  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. Time is TBD, so ignore the time listed.

  Other Information: This has been extra popular with the solo boaters in the past few years (but was usually held on Mondays).

  Trip Coordinator: Tina Barzo tinabarzo@hotmail.com or 403-763-7036

  
  

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• Canada Day extra long weekend on the Milk River

  • Start
    30 Jun 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM
  • End
    5 Jul 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • Location
    Gold Springs Camp Ground

  Register

  Winding through sandstone cliffs and abundant birdlife the Milk River is uniquely scenic and one of the clubs most traditional and well attended trips. The paddling is approachable for novices wishing to improve their paddling. There is some rock dodging and maneuvering required.  We camp at Goldstream Campground and shuttle day trips from there.  

  You can attend all or part of this multi-day event. 

  *** Be aware that there is another Milk River Trip on the schedule this same weekend- that one is for canoe camping along the river, not the standard trip we usually do.

  Description:   This year will be a joint function with the Ceyana club from Edmonton. Once again we will have a limited number of serviced sites for those with trailers. If tenting, there is a large field around a serviced picnic shelter. with room for many tents. 

  As this will be the first running of the function since 2023, I expect a large turnout from both clubs. I have been informed by the Project Manager of the reconstruction for the canal that they expect it to be flowing by the beginning of May. If planning on a serviced site please RSVP to me ASAP.

  For insurance reasons all paddlers must be either a BWCC or Ceyana member. However, all are welcome to join us for the camping. We will plan a potluck for Saturday Evening. The pond at the campground has 3 beaches, 2 swim platforms with slides, warm water and stocked with fish. During the heat dome a few years ago we had an amazing beach day when it was too hot to paddle.

  Level/Class:  Class I with some Class II features. Novice + to Intermediate. River reading and maneuvering ability are called for. There will be rock dodging!  This is a great trip for novices to gain  skills with many mentors on the water!

  Expected Flow: Medium.  Detailed flows here

  Duration:  Each day we will determine a section of river to paddle. Typically 3 to 5 hours on the water with breaks. 

  Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link). Temperatures can get high sunscreen, hat, water are essential on sunny days. 

  Shuttle:  Shuttle will be arranged daily from campsite. Be prepared for 8-9am departures. 

  Other Information:  Tentative Plans include:

  1. Town to Campground (half day, minimal rock dodging, easier section)
  2. Campground to Coffin Bridge (usually first day)
  3. Coffin Bridge to Weir Bridge (Poverty Rock, hiking, swimming, most technical)
  4. Weir bridge to Writing on Stone (often last day, no rock dodging, easiest section}
  5. Other than paddling:
     • Town of Milk River
     • • Shopping
       • Groceries
       • Restaurants
       • Gas
       • Canada Day events
       • https://www.milkriver.ca/p/upcoming-events
         
     • Devils coulee
     • • Book a tour at the county office/museum  in Warner.
       • http://www.devilscoulee.com
         
     • Birds of Prey Centre in Coledale
     • • drive to or from.
       • http://burrowingowl.com
     • Writing on Stone Provincial Park 
     • • Amazing hikes among the rock formations.
       • Awesome float to the beach.
       • Guided tour of the petroglyphs.
       • https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/south/writing-on-stone-pp/
         

       

     • 
       

  Trip Coordinator Don Mitchell:  <don.keith.mitchell@gmail.com>

  
  

  Emergency Action Plans:

  EAP Milk River - Gold Springs Park Campground to Range Road 150 

   EAP Milk River - Range Rd. 150 to Range Rd. 135 
    

  
  

  Show details
• Canoe Camping - Canada Day extra long weekend on the Milk River

  • Start
    30 Jun 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM
  • End
    5 Jul 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • Location
    Gold Springs Camp Ground

  Register

  Description: This trip is CANOE CAMPING along the way, camping at Gold Springs only on the first night (June 30) and the last night (July 4).  

  *** Do not confuse this trip with the other one this weekend. The other entry is the standard trip where we camp at Gold Springs the whole weekend and do day trips on the Milk. Please sign up for the one you really want!

  We will organize the shuttle July 1 or if we can do it June 30, and paddle (this will be fine-tuned closer to the trip):

  Wednesday July 1 - from Gold Springs to Coffin Bridge or go all the way to Poverty Rock

  Thursday July 2 - go to Poverty Rock or stay a second night at Poverty Rock 

  Friday July 3 - from Poverty Rock to Weir Bridge or all the way to Writing on Stone PP

  Saturday July 4 - go to Writing on Stone, hike, and head back to Gold Springs for the potluck with the other group

  July 5 - wake up at Gold Springs and decide to paddle with the larger group OR head home (take in the hikes, historic sites like Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump etc) 

  Winding through sandstone cliffs and abundant birdlife the Milk River is uniquely scenic. The paddling is approachable for novices wishing to improve their paddling. There is some rock dodging and maneuvering required.  

  Level/Class:  Class I with some Class II features. Novice + to Intermediate. River reading and maneuvering ability are called for. There will be rock dodging!  This is a great trip for novices to gain  skills with many mentors on the water!

  Expected Flow: Medium.  Detailed flows here

  Equipment:  Everything you need to canoe camp! Required equipment by law (click here for Link). Temperatures can get high sunscreen, hat, water are essential on sunny days. 

  Trip Coordinator: Tina Barzo tinabarzo@hotmail.com 403-763-7036

  Emergency Action Plans:

  EAP Milk River - Gold Springs Park Campground to Range Road 150 

    

  EAP Milk River - Range Rd. 150 to Range Rd. 135 

    
  

  Show details
• White Water Canoe Course

  • Start
    2 Jul 2026
  •  
  • End
    4 Jul 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park, Bow River
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Whitewater Canoeing

  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. The evening session will fine tune our strokes and river skills. On Sunday we will focus on eddy turns and ferries, how to work together, river reading and how to put it all together to make paddling faster rivers easier.
  Participants should be comfortable performing eddy turns and ferries on Class II rivers.
  **Participants are responsible for their own equipment.  End and centre 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email treasurerbwcc@gmail.com with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  
  

  Show details
• Introduction to Canoe Course

  • Start
    8 Jul 2026
  •  
  • End
    9 Jul 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park
  • Spaces left
    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. No partner needed.

  All necessary equipment Included.

  Two evening Course, 6:30pm to 8:30pm

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email treasurer@bowwaters.ca with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  Show details
• Bow River: Louise to Castle Jct

  • When
    12 Jul 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • Location
    Bow River: Louise train station to Castle Junction bridge

  Register

  Fun Facts:  The Bow River flows from Bow Lake thru the Rocky Mtns. and thru Calgary on its way to join the South Saskatchewan River in southern Alberta. 
  

  Level/Class:  Intermediate - River Class II;  class 2 rapids in first 4 km

  Description:  A very scenic trip in the mountains, and counting Harlequin ducks for Parks Canada.

  Difficulties of Rapids:  Several class 2 rapids in first 4 km.  Participants will have the option of avoiding these by putting in below. Also possible sweepers on tight river bends.

  Expected Flow: Low 

  Duration:  5 hours; 29 km

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

  Shuttle:  Car shuttle will be arranged at the meeting point

  Other Information:   Clean boat after trip

  Trip Coordinator:  TBA

  Emergency Action Plan Here
  

  Show details
• Tandem River Canoe Course

  • Start
    21 Jul 2026
  •  
  • End
    25 Jul 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Carburn Park, Bow River
  • Spaces left
    6

  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 Saturday 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. No partner needed.

  All necessary equipment Included.

  Two evenings (6:30 to 8:30 pm) AND one Saturday.

  *** 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.

  Refund Policy:  

  Our courses are very popular! Therefore, we ask that you contact the instructor as
  soon as possible to let them know should you be unable to attend. Upon notifying the instructor, the following cancellation rules apply:

  · Cancellation more than 7 days prior to the course start – 100% refund

  · Cancellation within 7 days and 48 hours of course start – 50% refund

  · Cancellation within 48 hours of course start – 0% refund

  Participants may apply for a refund by email (treasurerbwcc@gmail.com) with the course name, course date/start time and receipt of fees paid.

  
  

  Show details
• Canoe Meadows Campout

  • Start
    24 Jul 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • End
    26 Jul 2026
  •  
    4:00 PM
  • Location
    Kananaskis Country - Canoe Meadows Campground

  Come on out and join us for a fun filled weekend that is a blast for every level of paddler, solo to family!  Lots to do here or nearby for kids or if you don't paddle. 

  

  
  

  Description:  This is our Annual Kananaskis Campout at Canoe Meadows There will be a variety of rivers trips posted:

  Friday: Banff to Canmore, early evening runs on Upper and Lower Kananaskis

  Saturday: Exshaw to Seebe, morning and afternoon runs on Upper and Lower Kananaskis. Late afternoon throw bag and pulley practice with Mark Taylor.

  Pot luck dinner (sharing with Waterwerks Kayak club)

  Sunday: Lake Louise to Castle Junction. Upper and lower Kananaskis.

  Level/Class:  All levels Novice, Intermediate and Advanced trips available.   River Class: I, II, II+, III

  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. Please register even if only coming for day trips or the pot luck

  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 Friday

  Checkout no later than 4pm on Sunday. 

   We will be sharing the campground with Waterwerks Kayak club

   ***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:   TBD

  
  

  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). 

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• North Saskatchewan - Nordegg to Rocky

  • Start
    31 Jul 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM
  • End
    3 Aug 2026
  •  
    4:00 PM
  • Location
    Nordegg to Rocky Mountain House
  • Spaces left
    14

  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. As such this is a good trip for experienced novices to experiment with (or avoid!) Class II paddling.  

  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)

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Kootenay River; First Bridge to Canal Flats

  • Start
    4 Aug 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    7 Aug 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    First Bridge to Canal Flats

  Register

  Meeting Place:  First bridge on the river.

  Put-in: First bridge

  Take-out: Canal Flats

  Duration of Paddle: 3 days paddling with 3 nights camping. 

  River Grade: Intermediate.

  Difficulty of Rapids : Class II+

  Expected Flow: Medium.  

  Logistics: After dropping gear off at the put-in, a shuttle will be set up to leave sufficient vehicles at Canal Flats. 

  Number of Participants:  A maximum of 8 participants. 

  Boats & Gear: Suitable for solo and tandem canoes.  A spray deck is recommended for tandem canoes if available.   Required gear includes PFD, helmet, throw bag and wet suit or dry suite.  

  General Information:  Those who are accepted on the trip will be provided with further details on logistics closer to the start date.  Please contact the trip coordinator if you have any questions.

  Trip Coordinator:  John Gapp  johngapp@shaw.ca 403-370-8321

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Red Deer Rendevouze, RDR (not LSB)

  • Start
    21 Aug 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM
  • End
    24 Aug 2026
  •  
    4:30 PM
  • Location
    Upper Red Deer River area
  • Spaces left
    49

  Register

  Come on out and join us for  a fun filled weekend in and around the Upper Red Deer river. There will be camping, and day trips based from the campsite that are primarily intermediate to advanced paddling (II- to II+)

  The LSB has been moved to after Labour Day, to a river with better water for that time of year. The RDR will be 2 weekends prior to Labour Day to accommodate more members, warmer weather and better water.

  
  

  Level/Class:  Intermediate 2- to 2+,  

  Description:   We will be camping at the usual campground at Sunset Guiding

  Difficulties of Rapids:  All fun, will scout each feature, no pressure to run, can line or portage. 

  Expected Flow:  Normal to below normal; expect rapid rise if after rain.

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

  Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC; Helmet and Flotation, cold weather gear (dry suit, wet suit)

  Shuttle:  Will be discussed on site.

  Other Information:   Options to camp over both Friday and Sunday nights, giving options to paddle for 3 days. If interested in a cabin or trail riding, contact Sunset yourself (lori@sunsetguiding.com). 

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

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Board Meeting

  • When
    16 Sep 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

  Of Note: we have changed these meetings to the third Wednesday of the month.

  Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at info@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).

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Last Splash Bash (LSB)

  • Start
    18 Sep 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM
  • End
    20 Sep 2026
  •  
    4:30 PM
  • Location
    Horberg to below Rocky plus Crinson Lake
  • Spaces left
    50

  Register

  As the Red Deer weekend at Sunset is no longer anywhere near "Last Splash", this function has been added on a different river to ensure that there is adequate water in mid September.

  By camping at the Rocky Mountain Historic site, we have access to heated wash rooms with hot showers and are close to Rocky Mountain House.

  1. For the intermediate paddlers there is the all day Horberg to the Brierlies run which includes the Devil's Elbow (top right).

  2. For those wanting some fun without any shuttle there is the option to spend a day just playing at the Brierlies (top left).

  3. For those looking for a quiet river paddle there is a 29 km run to the Rustic River Resort (52.55706180549446, -115.01091207961898).

  4. For those looking for flat water there is Crimson Lake which is 15 minutes away (bottom).

  

  Level/Class:  Novice to Intermediate

  Description:   We will be camping at the Rocky Mountain Historic Site

  Difficulties of Rapids:  All rapids are avoidable, even on the Devil's Elbow run.

  Expected Flow:  Below normal, but generally lots of water as there is a power dam above.

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

  Equipment:  Required equipment by law (click here for Link) ,  Required by BWCC Helmet and Flotation, cold weather gear (dry suit, wet suit)

  Shuttle:  Will be discussed on site.

  Other Information:   

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

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Board Meeting

  • When
    21 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

  Of Note: we have changed these meetings to the third Wednesday of the month.

  Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at info@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).

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Board Meeting

  • When
    18 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

  Of Note: we have changed these meetings to the third Wednesday of the month.

  Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at info@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).

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Board Meeting

  • When
    16 Dec 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Your board works hard at these board meetings :)

  Of Note: we have changed these meetings to the third Wednesday of the month.

  Board club meetings are open to guests attending, please email the president at info@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).

  
  

  
  

  Show details