Before we dive right in, here are some quick safety tips to remember when paddleboarding in Banff National Park:

• Always wear your personal flotation device (PFD) when paddleboarding as supplied by the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub with your rental.
• Stick to the mountain lakes as water in the Bow River can become fast-moving and dangerous.
• Remember to attach your ankle leash to your board before entering the water.
• Be water-safe and mindful of water temperatures as the water can be extremely cold.

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!

Exploring the waters of Vermilion Lakes by stand-up paddleboard in Banff National Park | Photo by Will Lambert

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.

Watching the sun go down on a stand-up paddleboard in Banff National Park at Two Jack Lake | Photo by Shannon Martin

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.

Paddling the green waters of Johnson Lake | Photo by Amy Victoria Wakefield

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.

Taking in the views of the turquoise waters at Lake Louise | Photo by Roam

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.

Overlooking Moraine Lake and the beautiful glacial waters in Banff National Park | Photo by Corey Myke

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.

Paddling on the water with mountainous views at Herbert Lake | Photo by SkiBig3

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.

Reflections of the Rocky Mountains in the picturesque Bow Lake | Photo by Neil Zeller

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. You can e-bike to your favourite locations and use the promo codes below:

• E-Bike & Paddleboard: Pedal2024
• E-Bike & Kayak: Paddle2024

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.