The Paddle Station is a locally run Calgary-based raft and kayak rental company who sends over 15,000 people down the Bow River each spring and summer.
We have been in the Top 3 in TripAdvisor's list of most popular outdoor things to do in Calgary since 2017.
The Paddle Station, along with our proud partners, can help take the stress out of managing your next corporate/group/team event.
There are a variety of rafting/kayaking/SUP options; it just depends on your group size and budget. See below.
All rafting packages
The city portion of the Bow River has Class I rapids between the Paddle Station's start location at Shouldice Park and end at St Patricks Island. Class I means fast moving water with riffles and small waves. There are few obstructions, all obvious and easily navigated.
The Paddle Station has the flexibility to look after a single person, and the capacity to cater to over 460 people at the same time (380 on rafts and 80 people on kayaks and paddleboards)
There’s something you should you know: River guides are clever, playful jesters that will never miss an opportunity to put a smile on your face. They want you to be safe and comfortable, they want you to relax, but most of all they want you to have fun. Of course, each guide is different but will cover the following topics.
Adding a couple of kayaks, or Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP), adds a fun element to the trip! Paddlers can zip around the raft or group members can take turns in trying out our single, or double sit-on-top kayaks!
There are a variety of options, just depends on your group size, preferences, and budget. If you dont find what you're looking for here, then please do not hesitate to contact us!
The pricing is all inclusive of paddles, life jackets, and an emergency safety kit.
The 2-6 person raft is the perfect raft for couples or small groups wishing to float together! The raft is made of high quality vinyl and equipped with grab lines and 2 bolsters. The raft does not have drain holes and will stay fairly dry, but be prepared for the occasional splash. Though you can fit 6 people on the raft, we recommend up to 4 people for maximum comfort.
The pricing is all inclusive of paddles, life jackets, helmets, and an emergency safety kit.
The 4-8 person raft is the perfect raft for smaller groups wishing to float together! The raft is made of high quality vinyl and equipped with grab lines and 2 removable seats. The raft does not have drain holes and will stay fairly dry, but be prepared for the occasional splash. Though you can fit 8 people on the raft, we recommend up to 4-6 people for maximum comfort.
The pricing is all inclusive of paddles, life jackets, helmets and an emergency safety kit.
The 6-12 person raft is the perfect raft for large groups wishing to float together! The raft is made of high quality vinyl and equipped with grab lines and 2 removable seats. The raft does not have drain holes and will stay fairly dry, but be prepared for the occasional splash. Though you can fit 12 people on the raft, we recommend up to 10 people for it to be spacious enough for everyone.
Works out to about $18 a person!
The pricing is all inclusive of paddles, life jackets, helmets, and an emergency safety kit.
The 6-person round raft is the perfect raft for small groups wishing to float together! The raft is made of high-quality vinyl. The raft does not have drain holes and will stay fairly dry, but be prepared for the occasional splash. Though you can fit 6 people on the raft. The best part of it all, you face each other!
The single kayak is the ultimate exploration kayak; stable, maneuverable and easy to use. Due to its unique hull design, this kayak performs well in all water conditions. The open top design allows you to jump into the water for a quick swim, and then climb back onto the kayak after you’re done!
There are self bailing drain holes on the vessel so be prepared to get a little bit wet.
Read more: http://www.rtmkayaks.com/en/fiches-produits/mambo/
The pricing is all inclusive of paddles, life jackets, helmets and an emergency safety kit.
The Double Kayak is the perfect vessel for you and a friend, or spouse, to spend time navigating together as a team. Featuring two comfortable paddling seats, the Double Kayak is a great choice for group kayak sessions. The open top design allows you to jump into the water for a quick swim, and then climb back onto the kayak after you’re done! There are self bailing drain holes on the vessel so be prepared to get a little bit wet.
Read more: http://www.sitons.com/kayaks/ocean-duo/
Stand up paddleboarding has become hugely popular. So many people are attracted to this sport, and it’s easy to understand why. There are too many benefits to list – but for starters:
It’s an unbelievable workout. SUP paddling will give you an incredible total body and cardiovascular workout.
It’s safe and easy to learn. You just need to get your balance squared away, understand a little about weight distribution and stance, figure out which way to hold the paddle, and you’re pretty much good to go.
Building on that last point, it’s great for family and guests. If you own a paddleboard, chances are your family members and summer guests will want to try it out. They’ll probably get hooked too.
It gives you an unparalleled vantage point on the water. There is no other water sport that lets you stand on while going at your own pace, exploring new areas and just appreciating your surroundings like SUP.
There are more benefits, but chances are you’ll find your own reason for falling in love with SUP. It’s not just a fad (please ignore the naysayers.. they’re just jealous). The sport of stand up paddleboarding has been around for decades.
And SUPs have played a huge part of a rich cultural history in Hawaii. It’s only been recently that SUP has reached Calgary, and it is certainly popular!!