Experience the tranquility of the Bow River and admire the stunning scenery on a Big Canoe Tour. As you paddle upstream, your local guide will share captivating stories from the past, the history of canoeing, and fascinating local facts. Every tour includes life jackets and paddles, along with instructions on how to paddle effectively as a team. This activity is ideal for the entire family, as no prior paddling experience is required. It's a fantastic option for children!
✓ GST (Goods and Services Tax)✓ Guide✕ Hotel pickup and drop-offActivity Schedule
1 h 30
Meet at the Banff Canoe Club, conveniently located a 5-minute walk from downtown Banff. The River Explorer Tour offers an enjoyable way to experience the river as a group! After being equipped with a life jacket and paddle, our friendly guide will provide essential safety instructions and paddling techniques. You'll then board a 12-seater Big Canoe to journey up the picturesque Bow River. Allow our guide to entertain you with interesting facts, keep an eye out for local wildlife, and soak in the breathtaking views. Many groups appreciate our River Explorer Tour because it requires no prior experience and is fully supervised by a qualified guide. Your tour concludes with light refreshments. This tour is perfect for families and offers a fun, interactive way to explore the waterways of Banff National Park.
The Banff Canoe Club Banff National Park
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
Located on the Corner of Bow Avenue & Wolf Street, Banff
Located on the Corner of Bow Avenue & Wolf Street, Banff
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Public transportation options are available nearby Suitable for all physical fitness levels Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Listen carefully to the guide's safety instructions. Be prepared for potential wildlife sightings. Enjoy the unique experience of paddling as a team. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 2914P3
Activity offered by Hydra River Guides via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families Children Beginners Nature lovers Scenic Bow River journey Engaging local guide with stories and facts Suitable for all ages and fitness levels No paddling experience necessary Includes life jackets, paddles, and refreshments Family-friendly activity
Population 8,305 (2021)
Elevation 1,400 m
Currency Canadian dollar
Official languages English, French
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Ottawa Average temperatures -13° Jan -13° Feb -9° Mar -4° Apr 3° May 8° Jun 12° Jul 11° Aug 6° Sept -1° Oct -9° Nov -14° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the Big Canoe Tour? + The tour lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Is any prior paddling experience required? + No, no paddling experience is necessary as instruction is provided.
What is included in the tour? + The tour includes GST, a guide, life jackets, and paddles. Light refreshments are also provided at the end.
What happens if the tour is cancelled due to bad weather or insufficient participants? + If the tour is cancelled, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
Where is the meeting point for the tour? + The meeting point is the Banff Canoe Club, located on the Corner of Bow Avenue & Wolf Street, Banff.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great water experience!
amyhK5488ND, October 2026
This was an absolutely gorgeous way of seeing a different view of Banff: on the water! Our guide was Cam and he was fantastic! Knowledgeable, funny and was able to make the experience fun and enjoyable! Highly recommend this experience!
★★★★★ Viator review
Beautiful Scenery
Amy_H, October 2026
This was an absolutely gorgeous way of seeing a different view of Banff: on the water! Our guide was Cam and he was fantastic! Knowledgeable, funny and was able to make the experience fun and enjoyable! Highly recommend this experience!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Lucy was awesome.
delcojoe123, October 2026
Our tour guide Lucy was fun & informative. She spotted elk down the river and got us in a wonderful viewing & safe position.
★★★★★ Viator review
It was misting rain but...
Rebecca_B, September 2026
It was misting rain but we had our rain gear.
Corey was great and made the trip fun!
Highly recommend!!
★★★★★ Viator review
Canoeing with friends.
claudiaaross4, September 2026
Lots of hard work, but very fun!.
We enjoyed gliding through the water.
Unfortunately, we did not see any wildlife
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