The Paddle Station | Family Fun Calgary

The Paddle Station: Nothing Says Summer Fun Like Time on the Water!

The Paddle Station Summer (Family Fun Calgary)

Summer might be short in Calgary, but you just need to add a little adventure and playtime to make the most of your moments! And nothing says summer fun like time spent on the water. Sunshine, beautiful scenery, and the chance to enjoy a memorable day with your family? Yes, please! Book a floating experience down the Bow River with The Paddle Station and watch your city slide past while you relax. It’s a recipe for the best summer ever!

Rafting on the river is the perfect summer adventure for everyone, even beginners and kids. Of course, the logistics of making it happen can feel like too much work amid a busy life. But that’s where The Paddle Station comes in! From single or double kayaks, and small rafts to giant ones, The Paddle Station takes care of all the details. With no hidden fees, tours include your raft or kayak, plus life jackets, paddles, and safety kits. All you need to do is show up!

How Does It Work?

Head online to book a rafting tour. Whether you want a unique date night or want to bring the whole family (cousins included!), the Paddle Station can accommodate you with rafts that fit up to 20 people.

Rafts launch from Shouldice Park and end on St. Patrick’s Island near the Calgary Zoo West Lot. You can leave one vehicle at either end if you have two vehicles and two drivers. Or make it easy and just taxi or Uber back to your vehicle. The Paddle Station reports that an Uber costs about $20 between the two sites.

Arrive 30 minutes before your rafting time for orientation and a safety session, and if you’ve never paddled before, don’t worry! Staff can give you a lesson and take your group through the basics before you set out. The Bow River is classified as Level 1, so it’s perfect for beginners and intermediate kayakers and rafters. Guides are also available for hire, if that makes you more comfortable.

Your float down the river will take about 2 – 3 hours, depending on weather and water flow. This experience is for kids aged 3 and up, and kids under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. If your furry family members are well-behaved, they can join the fun, too! (But note that The Paddle Station does not provide life jackets for dogs.)

Are you wondering what to bring? Make sure you’re wearing appropriate water activity gear for the weather, including a hat and proper footwear. Throw in a towel and sunscreen. A dry bag or a resealable plastic bag is recommended for phones and wallets. And don’t forget water and a few snacks to enjoy!

Once you arrive at ‘The Cove’ on St. Patrick’s Island, all you need to do is hand off your raft and head off on your day, hopefully a little more relaxed than when you started!

No matter what you’re planning this summer, The Paddle Station will make it memorable. From family reunions and birthday parties, to enjoying a summer’s day or any excuse to connect with your teenager, your river is waiting! Book today and enjoy the allure of summer on the water.