With jaw-dropping mountain scenery and turquoise glacial lakes, Banff National Park is home to some of the best Stand-Up Paddleboard locations in the world (not that we're biased). As you jump on your paddleboard you can discover some of the most beautiful corners of the park. With the SkiBig3 inflatable paddleboards, they are easy to pack up and transport to one of the many beautiful lakes, whether by bus or car. Here are our seven top picks for where to take your stand-up paddleboard this summer.
Before we dive right in, here are some quick safety tips to remember when paddleboarding in Banff National Park:
If you're looking for a peaceful paddleboarding spot just minutes from Banff town, look no further than Vermillion Lakes. The lake is made up of three interconnected lakes, offering endless exploration without ever leaving your board. Each lake has its own dock area for easy launches, and with no motorized watercraft allowed you'll be able to glide through its usually calm and gentle waters. As you paddle, soak in the stunning views of Mt. Rundle and keep an eye out for local wildlife - you might spot elk, beavers, herons and even eagles!
There's a reason why Two Jack Lake is one of the most popular SUP and Kayak destinations in Banff National Park. With gorgeous emerald green waters and majestic views of Mt. Rundle, it's a paddle location you won't forget. There are also picnic benches close to the lake, so it's a perfect place to spend a little more time taking in the scenery and enjoying a lakeside lunch stop. For an unforgettable experience, head out for a sunrise or sunset paddle and enjoy the views and the lake to yourself.
To experience slightly warmer waters, Johnson Lake is the lake to go to. With slightly warmer temperatures than the neighbouring Two Jack Lake, dipping your toe in the water or an accidental plunge will be a little more appealing here. With plenty of parking, a picnic table and an easy walk to the shoreline, it's the perfect place for family adventures.
That's right. You can paddle board on one of the most iconic lakes in the world. With its beautiful fluorescent glacial blue waters, you won't want to miss this location. Paddle your way through the calming waters, surrounded by nothing but mountain views. Bypass the long wait times and high rental prices for a canoe by popping your rented SkiBig3 SUP straight onto Lake Louise. It is a popular destination, so we recommend arriving early to secure your spot in the parking lot or, you can opt for the bus from Banff or the Lake Louise village.
On every bucket list for Banff National Park is a visit to Moraine Lake. Located in the Valley of Ten Peaks, this is a lake you won't want to miss. Watch the sunrise over the mountains and take in the picture-perfect surroundings as you float from your paddleboard. Remember, Moraine Lake is only accessible by shuttle. Make sure to book your transport ahead of time and double-check that your shuttle will accept your paddleboard to avoid disappointment.
If you're looking to escape the crowds, Herbert Lake is the lake for you. Tucked 3km down the beautiful Icefields Parkway, this hidden gem is the perfect location for a leisurely paddleboarding adventure. While Herbert Lake may not draw the big crowds like Lake Louise, it's still a good idea to arrive early to enjoy this little pocket of serenity.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to fully experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains with a visit to Bow Lake. Located along the stunning Icefields Parkway, enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain. As you launch your board into the pristine water, soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. However, be sure to check the weather forecast before your visit as the lake can be affected by winds due to its size.
Found a lake that takes your fancy? Reserve your paddleboard online or stop by the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub at 114 Banff Ave and get ready for your paddleboard explorations. If you want to take your adventure up a notch, save 15% when you book your e-bike at the same time as your stand-up paddleboard or kayak.
Before launching your paddleboard into the water, make sure to complete an AIS Prevention Permit. The self-certification permit is required by Parks Canada to prevent invasive species from entering the parks and to understand invasive aquatic species. You can either collect a permit at the lake or river or get one ahead of time online. All SkiBig3 paddleboard rentals are cleaned after each use and tracked for usage, so you can have confidence that your SUP is approved for use within Banff National Park!
You can learn more about this to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species on the Parks Canada website.
