Karsten SturmayI once brought an inflatable paddleboard to a spot with no pump. Just imagine me huffing into a valve like I’m inflating a beach ball while my friends are already halfway across the lake, waving back in slow motion. Sadly, I did not make it.
The day taught me that choosing where to go paddleboarding in Edmonton is just as important as what you bring with you. Some spots are calm and beginner-friendly; others? Let’s just say they’re better for watching other people fall in.
Luckily, Edmonton has no shortage of scenic places to float, balance, and maybe even stand without face-planting. This guide breaks down the most fun, accessible paddleboarding spots to help make your next outing way smoother than mine.
Hermitage Pond
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Location: 2115 Hermitage Road NW
Contact:
- 311 (within Edmonton)
- Outside Edmonton: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Park Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
- Washroom Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Hermitage Pond’s a nice pick if you’re after a low-key place to paddleboard.
I checked it out last summer and loved how still the water was. The surroundings had a really calming vibe too.
There’s a dock that makes it easy to launch your board. While the park doesn’t rent boards directly, places like River Valley Adventure Co. will drop off a board right at the park for you.
After padding around, it’s nice to hang out at one of the picnic sites, which you can even book ahead of time if you’re planning a group hang.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for the best views, head toward the pond’s eastern side where the sun rises—it’s the perfect way to start your day on the water.
Rundle Park
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Location: 2909 113 Avenue NW
Contact:
- Phone: 311 (within Edmonton)
- Outside Edmonton: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Park Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
- Rundle Family Centre: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Rundle Park is one of my go-to spots when I want a low-key paddleboarding session. The ponds are pretty calm, so it’s perfect if you’re not looking for anything too intense.
I’ve rented a paddleboard from the Rundle Park Paddling Centre before, and I love how easy they make it — they have everything you need, from the paddleboard to the life jacket.
If you’re planning to go during the summer, they also offer drop-in sessions, but you’ll need to register in advance.
Pro tip:
If you want a great view of the city’s skyline, paddle toward the middle of the lake in the late afternoon when the sun hits just right.
Big Lake and The Sturgeon River
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Location:
- Accessible via: 131 Street NW
Contact:
- City of St. Albert: 780-459-1500
Operating hours:
- The river and its adjacent trails are accessible year-round. However, activities may be subject to seasonal advisories.
Big Lake and the Sturgeon River are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The River has this mix of historic and wildlife feels that makes padding there really unique. I’ve gone out a few times, and paddling under the old CN trestle bridge always stands out—it gives the area a bit of character.
On the quieter stretches, you’ll spot beavers and muskrats along the banks. There are also ducks and geese just doing their thing.
There aren’t rentals on-site, but you can grab a paddleboard from places like Rundle Park and bring it with you.
Pro tip:
Stick to the Sturgeon River section if it’s windy—it’s more sheltered than the open water of Big Lake and makes for a smoother paddle.
Sandy Lake
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Location: 1208A Highway 642
Distance from Edmonton: 45-60 minutes away
Contact: 780-967-2873
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Thursday and Friday: Virtual assistance is available
Sandy Lake’s a quiet spot we tried for paddleboarding not too long ago. The lake itself is calm and shallow, which makes it easy to get going without much effort.
Since there aren’t any rentals, we brought our own boards. There’s a public boat launch nearby that makes getting into the water super simple.
It stayed quiet the whole time—just a couple of kayakers and some birds along the edge. The calm made for a pretty, laid-back afternoon.
Pro tip:
Since there aren’t any rentals at Sandy Lake, make sure to bring your own board.
Pinehurst Lake
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Location: Pinehurst Lake Campground
Distance from Edmonton: 3 hours away
Contact: 1-877-537-2757
Operating hours:
- Camping Season: May 15 – September 1 (reservable)
- Off-Season (Sept Long – May Long): Reduced services; first-come, first-served camping available at Group Use Area A
Pinehurst Lake is big enough to explore but still calm, which makes it perfect for a relaxed afternoon on the water.
We brought our own boards, but it felt nice knowing safety’s covered for anyone who forgets theirs.
After paddling, we chilled by the water and had a snack. There are picnic areas and fire pits, which made the whole day pretty laid-back. It’s a simple spot to spend the day.
Pro tip:
If you plan to paddle for a while, pack some snacks and water since there aren’t food vendors around.
Astotin Lake
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Location: 1 – 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Distance from Edmonton: 30-40 minutes away
Contact: 780-922-5790
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours a day, year-round
Astotin Lake is one of my favorite spots for paddleboarding. The lake is calm, with no motorboats, so it’s perfect for a chill session on the water.
We brought our own boards, but you can rent them from Ridge Wilderness Adventures if you don’t have one. The boat launch is easy to find, and it makes getting in and out a breeze.
As we paddled, we saw a couple of bison grazing near the shore, which was pretty cool. Afterward, we hung out by the beach and had lunch—it’s a nice, relaxing place to spend a few hours.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat—there’s limited shade around the lake.
Edmonton Paddleboarding
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Location: 9180 Walterdale Hill NW
Contact: +1 780-405-5085
Operating hours:
- Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
If you’re looking to explore the North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton Paddleboarding is a great way to do it. We tried it last summer, and the setup was simple—everything you need (including the board, paddle, and lifejacket) is provided.
The staff at Kinsmen Park made sure we were all set, and they’ll even inflate your board if you bring your own. There’s also a shuttle service to get you to the launch spot, so it’s super convenient.
We had a great time paddling down the river—it’s a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours while enjoying the city views. Definitely a good way to try something new without any hassle.
Pro tip:
Make sure to check the water conditions beforehand—it can sometimes be windy or have strong currents.
Victoria Park
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Location: 12030 River Valley Road NW
Contact: +1 (780) 442-5311
Operating hours:
- Daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Victoria Park is one of those places I like to go for paddleboarding when I want a mix of water and city vibes.
After paddling, I take my time eating something I prepared at one of the picnic tables. I remember playing with someone else’s dog, and the owner mentioned that the dog watched me paddle and seemed to like me.
It’s a calm spot, not too crowded, and the trails are great for a walk afterward if you’re looking for something else to do.
Pro tip:
Be cautious of the occasional boat traffic, especially closer to the main part of the park, as it can create some waves.
Emily Murphy Park
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Location: 11904 Emily Murphy Park Road NW
Contact: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Located on the south bank of the North Saskatchewan River, Emily Murphy Park offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor lovers.
The park features a hand/carry boat launch, providing easy access to the river for small craft like paddleboards. While there are no rental services directly within the park, nearby facilities offer equipment rentals for those without their own gear.
Apart from water sports, the park also has picnic areas and cycling and walking paths, hence a perfect destination for a day out. It’s an ideal place with a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone.
Pro tip:
Wear water shoes—there can be some rocky patches along the shore.
Laurier Park
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Location: 13221 Buena Vista Road NW
Contact: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
I love how Laurier Park is tucked along the river, away from the busier spots in Edmonton. It’s easy to get in and out with a paddleboard, and I always feel like I’ve got the water to myself, especially on weekdays.
I’ve brought my own board a few times, but I like that you can find rentals nearby if you don’t have your own. After paddling, I like to chill at one of the picnic tables and take a break.
Plus, if you’re planning to hang out longer, alcohol is permitted in moderation at some of the picnic sites, which is a nice bonus for a laid-back afternoon.
Pro tip:
Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and keys, as there aren’t any convenient places to store them.
