What to Expect on a Bow River Float Trip

A Bow River float trip is an exciting way of exploring the Canadian Rockies, getting guests up close and personal to nature while creating unique travel experiences. Locals and international tourists alike have taken advantage of the calm and gentle waters found in Alberta’s Bow River, exploring the scenery and taking on trips suitable for the entire family.

Learn more about Bow River float trips and how you can indulge in this travel experience that is unique to the great province of Alberta. Lean on the experts at Caravan to help you experience this destination, and so many more.

What is a Bow River Float Trip?

Bow River float trips are gentle river trips that run all the way from the beautiful Rockies, directly into downtown Calgary.

The waters of the Bow River extend from the Canadian Rockies and eastward towards Calgary.
These glacier waters then extend roughly 350 miles throughout the province of Alberta, starting from Mount Gordon, directly through Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and then east into Canmore.

Originally named by the indigenous Cree people of Alberta, many of the fir trees found along the river were used to build bows, standing as a well-respected living spirit that represented healing in their cultures. Today, the waters and surrounding lands are carefully preserved and respected, where guests can enjoy these rapids with respect and care.

These rivers are used for a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and white water rafting. Some portions of the Bow River are so incredibly gentle that they allow guests to tube or float down the river without any assistance. Of course, many guided offerings allow guests to navigate the Bow River alongside someone more experienced; however, the rivers are enjoyed by many who wish to experience the area in a unique and special way.

The resulting experience is one that is calm and easy, suitable for guests who want to take on a new experience on the water but don’t want to navigate the challenges of canoeing, kayaking, or rafting. This is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the Canadian Rockies, something that will be memorable, but also accessible for almost anyone.

How To Float The Bow River

For the most gentle Bow River float experience possible, there are two well-known “jump off” points to choose from:

• Bow River Falls Launch Point: This trip begins at the base of Bow River Falls, cruising for about 7 km, and includes views of both Cascade and Rundle mountains. Here, a guide will take you and other guests on a very gentle float down the river, offering educational context and details about the landscapes. This option remains suitable even for non-swimmers, seniors, children, and anyone else who may be interested in the experience. The area offers rental options for those who want to partake in this activity on their own, or guided tour groups who can handle the details while you enjoy the trip.

• West Baker Park Boat Launch Point: This site offers the incredible experience of a floating experience set alongside the city of Calgary. Take a gentle trip from this location directly through the city of Calgary, right into its downtown core. Wave to those you come across and enjoy both urban and natural landscapes with this popular option. The waters here remain gentle and suitable for guests of all ages and ability levels. Consider partnering with a tour group to help them guide you through the experience, or rent your own equipment if you wish to partake on your own.

• The Castle Junction Launch in Banff: This remains a popular option for those looking to experience the Bow River on their own. This DIY launch point from the Trans Canada Highway exit for Highway 93 offers a half-day experience that gently glides into the town of Banff. Keep in mind, however, that any watercraft used must comply with Parks Canada regulations, while you must use a specific kind of life jacket for safety and the preservation of the natural environment.

  What to Know Before Floating Down The Bow River

Here are some key points you should know before floating down the Bow River:

• For those who fail to wear a personal floating device like a life jacket, you could be fined up to $500.
• Safety kits are required, even if you plan on floating on your own. You will be required by law to carry a whistle, a 15-meter haul line, and a bucket for bailing out water as required.
• You can face criminal charges if you are found to be impaired by alcohol or cannabis while floating down the Bow River.
• Water levels can change, and guests should explore the Alberta Rivers website to ensure that flows are safe for floating before launching.
• Renting a quality craft is essential, and tubes or flotation devices that are ripped or worn out may be damaged during your float.
• Prepare to get wet, and pack clothing that can dry quickly, or is waterproof.
  The waters are incredibly cold, even during the peak of the summer travel season.
• Prepare for hot sun and cold water, and always bring along sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Prepare for potential delays, as float trips are often weather-dependent. Heavy rains can make the Bow River dangerous, so plan accordingly for this possibility.

When Is The Best Time To Float The Bow River?

A Bow River Float trip is usually best experienced in the summer, beginning in July and running to early September. Fall and Spring are generally not comfortable enough to partake in this experience, as cooler weather and ice-cold waters make for an uncomfortable experience.

Further, spring runoff from melting snow can make the Bow River dangerous and should be avoided. Keep in mind that peak travel season is in July and August, so September remains one of the very best times to experience the Bow River.

Rules and Regulations for Experiencing the Bow River

There are a few rules to keep in mind before your float experience. They are articulated by Parks Canada, and guests could be fined for failing to abide by these rules:

• Rafts can never be tied together, as this poses a risk to floaters, as their rafts can become stuck or pinned along parts of the river.
• Cheap pool floats are never allowed, including air mattresses or inner tubes. Instead, multi-chambered inflatable rafts built specifically for floating on rivers or white waters can only be used. Always consult with a guide if you are unsure if your raft is appropriate for use.
• Dogs are allowed to accompany you during your float trip, but they must wear a lifejacket.
• There is zero tolerance for impairment from drugs or alcohol along the river. Never drink and float.
• Local and federal police monitor the Bow River, and you could face fines if you are found not to be following the rules.
• Never, under any circumstances, should you drink the water from the Bow River. You can become sick from drinking the water.

Consult the city of Calgary websitedirectly to learn more about rules and regulations for the Bow River. Partnering with a tour company can help you navigate the rules of a great float trip. Explore your options and always do your research prior to taking part in a float trip.

What To Pack and Bring For a Bow River Float Tour

Here is a packing checklist for your first Bow River float tour:

• Quick-dry clothing is very beneficial, as you are likely to get wet. This can be a bathing suit or light clothing that can dry quickly in the sun.
• PFD or Life Jacket: Required by law, and available for rent from tour operators.
• A waterproof bag or a designated dry bag for keeping your valuables safe.
• Watershoes, or shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
• Layers of clothing, including clothing suitable for hot temperatures and sunny weather. This can include sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, or a long-sleeve shirt.
• Waterproof sunscreen that can protect you even if you get wet along your journey.
• A rain jacket that can help you stay dry.

  Bow River Float FAQs

Find answers to common questions regarding floating the Bow River.

Do you need a life jacket to float on the Bow River?

Yes. Every guest is required by law to wear a properly fitted life jacket when floating the Bow River.

How long does it take to float the Bow River?

The length of your experience remains dependent on your launch point and where you plan to conclude. Many guides offer half-day experiences or just short float trips that last just a few hours.

How to float down the Bow River?

Visitors have the ability to float down the river entirely on their own, renting the appropriate gear and vessel, or booking a tour directly with a travel company that can facilitate the entire experience on your behalf.

Are you allowed to swim in the Bow River?

There are portions of the Bow River that have restrictions on swimming. Further, the waters are often far too cold to swim in comfortably.

How deep is the Bow River in Calgary?

Portions of the Bow River are known to be about ten feet deep.

Is the Bow River safe to swim in?

Generally, the Bow River is not safe for extensive swimming.

Is Bow River water clean?

While the Bow River waters are truly clean and beautiful, they are not safe for drinking or swimming in.

Can you float down the Bow River?

Yes! A float tour is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Looking To Float The Bow River? Have Caravan Lead The Way!

Partnering with a travel group is a simple way of enjoying the Canadian Rockies while taking on the incredible Bow River alongside qualified guides. Cavana’s mult-day tour of the Rockiesincludes a stop dedicated to floating the Bow River, offering a fully booked, safe, and enjoyable experience. Take part in a travel group that includes stops at Banff, Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise, and experience all that these amazing destinations have to offer without ever worrying about the details.

Instead of navigating the regulations and complexities of planning a trip through the Rockies, take part in a travel group with accommodations, activities, and ground transportation fully booked and taken care of. Further, our travel guides can work closely with you to ensure that you not only have the best possible experience, but are able to enjoy the Bow River safely, without complication.

Explore Other Tours By Caravan

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• Tours of Costa Rica
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