Explore Banff by Canoe
Enjoy a Relaxing Paddle in the Canadian Rockies
Paddle across the radiant turquoise waters
Canoeing Lake Louise
Experience Lake Louise's Turquoise waters
For many, canoeing on Lake Louise is a highlight of any trip to Banff National Park. Few places feel more quintessential for renting a canoe in Banff than Lake Louise itself. The setting is extraordinary, with Mount Victoria and the hanging Victoria Glacier rising in the distance, creating one of the most spectacular paddling backdrops in the world. There’s no need for heavy photo editing here since the water is naturally a vivid turquoise, much like nearby Moraine Lake.
You can rent one directly from the boathouse on the shore of Lake Louise. That said, expect a wait during peak hours, as rentals operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially outside of early morning or late evening.
Once you’re on the water, you won’t have the lake to yourself, but it’s still easy to find space and keep distance from other canoes. This is especially true if you paddle beyond the immediate dock area, where most visitors tend to linger. Those who continue farther out often find a quieter rhythm on the water. If you plan to paddle the full length of Lake Louise, allow around an hour, depending on your pace and conditions.
Note: Canoe rentals operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so expect to wait in line during peak summer months. Each rental must have at least one person 16 years old, and the maximum number of passengers is 3, unless you are 2 small kids and 2 adults.
Daily Hours Currently Listed
May 31 – June 9: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
June 10 onwards: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
$170 per hour / $160 per half hour (+tax)
Anyone visiting Lake Louise can rent a canoe at the Lake Louise boathouse. The rental house is not just for Fairmont guests. Though Fairmont guests have a separate line and are given priority over non-guests.
Up to three adults can use one canoe at the boathouse. Any person weighing more than 55 lbs is considered an adult at the boathouse. If you have small children, they also allow 2 children + 2 adults.
Lifejackets are provided at the boathouse for every guest on the canoe, and they have child life jackets. Everyone must wear a lifejacket while paddling with a rental.
Dogs and children are allowed on the Lake Louise canoes.
Stand-up paddle boards and kayaks are not available at the Lake Louise boathouse.
The Boathouse has an inflatable rescue boat on standby to assist in case anyone gets in trouble on the water.
They will close with severe inclement weather. These times are subject to change throughout the season.
Paddle turquoise waters beneath the Valley of the Ten Peaks
Canoeing Moraine Lake
Paddle one of the world’s most photographed lakes
An Unforgettable Moraine Lake Moment
Canoeing on Moraine Lake is one of the experiences that should be ticked off the bucket list and never ever forgotten. The exceptional blue water ambiance, the towering Ten Peaks surrounding you make it not just a canoe ride but a feel of paddling through a dream. The canoe dock usually opens around mid-June until about mid-September, depending on weather conditions. The mornings are often the calmest time on the lake, with fewer people and the most mirror-like surface. If you are a photographer, this is pure bliss.
To paddle across Lake Moraine is probably one of the most magical ways to experience the Rocky Mountains in Canada. Whether you’re a first-timer in these parts or someone who’s been dreaming of the moment for years, canoeing on Moraine Lake brings you peace, beauty, and a connection to nature likely found nowhere else.
Note: Canoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis (they do not take reservations).
Daily Hours Currently Listed
Mid-June to Mid-September: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Public canoe rental: $160 per hour (+ tax)
Each canoe can accommodate two to three people; paddles, life jackets and basic instruction are provided.
Pets are not permitted in the canoes.
Stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are not available for rent.
Due to water levels, the canoe dock is only in operation from mid-June to mid-September. They do close down without notice due to inclement weather (snow, rain and wind).
There is a rescue boat on site.