Adventures on the Bow River: Explore South Calgary’s Outdoor Scene

When the temperatures rise, everyone starts looking for ways to cool down. Calgary residents can beat the heat by cooling off in the Bow River with water activities like kayaking, rafting, floating, or fly fishing. Wolf Willow is perfectly situated to take in the beauty and recreational opportunities the Bow and Fish Creek Park provide.

Floating down the Bow River

Have you ever floated down the Bow River? Ranked one of the top outdoor activities in Calgary, floating, rafting, and kayaking is a relaxing and memorable way to spend an afternoon.

Launch Points and Routes

The river has a variety of scenic routes and access points where you can enter its waters. With a convenient boat launch point in Fish Creek Park, a relaxing float down the river is just a stone’s throw away from Wolf Willow and a great way to spend a sunny day.

The Fish Creek Park Boat Ramp is located at the south end of Bow Bottom Trail, only a 10 minute bike ride or a 20 minute drive away.

Some of the more popular starting locations in the city include Edworthy Park, Shouldice Park, and Prince’s Island Park, each offering unique views of Calgary’s natural landscape and downtown skyline.

Need some more guidance before heading out on your own? You can book a Lazy Day Raft Tour here. No matter where you launch from, you’re set for a day of leisure and exploration.

Essential Gear and Safety Tips

While floating down the Bow should be a fun experience, safety always comes first! Ensure you and your companions are equipped with properly fitting life jackets, which are crucial for safety. Wearing a life jacket on or near the river is mandatory in Calgary. If you bring your dog along, ensure they also have a life vest if they aren’t a strong swimmer. While floating, wear water-resistant clothing, as well as sunscreen, hats, etc, plus bring a dry bag to protect your belongings. If you’re planning on staying out for a long time, bring snacks and water—it’s important to stay hydrated!

For more water safety tips, visit the City of Calgary’s website.

Flow Rates and Environmental Advisories

Before heading out, always plan your route and stay informed about the current river conditions and environmental or weather advisories. This will ensure you’re prepared for any obstacles you might encounter.

The flow rate of the Bow River in Calgary is typically calm, though during the spring runoff season, the river’s flow can be a bit quicker. You can always check the current conditions on the Rivers Alberta website or through the City of Calgary.

Fly Fishing on the Bow River

Have you ever wanted to try fly fishing? Fishers from all over the world come to Calgary just to fish for trout in the Bow River. Keep reading to learn more about this relaxing sport.

Best Fishing Spots

Fly fishing on the Bow River offers a plenty of prime locations, especially in south Calgary near Wolf Willow. Here the river flows abundantly with trophy-sized rainbow trout, brown trout, and more. Seasoned anglers often start their journey around the AB-22x bridge on Stoney Trail.

Seasonal Tips and Gear

The Bow River is fishable year-round, but the optimal time for fly fishing stretches from late May to October, with July often recommended as the best month. During this period, the fish are more active due to warmer temperatures and settled water levels from the post-spring rains.

Before you hit the water, ensure you have a sportfishing license, a suitable fly rod, reel, line, boots, waders, a net, and a selection of flies.

Local Guides and Clubs

If it’s your first time fly fishing, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience. There are plenty of guides in the Calgary area, like Prairie Waters Fly Fishing and Bow River Anglers.

Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned pro, consider joining a fly fishing club. Two of the more popular clubs in Calgary are the Calgary Women Fly Fishers Club and Calgary Hook and Hackle Club. Joining a club can enhance your experience through mentorship, comradery, as well as increase awareness about conservation of the trout population in the Bow River.

For a more in-depth read, check out our blog all about flying fishing on the Bow River.

Scenic Trails along the Bow River

If you prefer land over water, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore in Fish Creek Park, all while taking in the beautiful Bow.

For those who prefer a faster pace, the Bow River is lined with paved pathways and designated bike lanes that make cycling and e-biking enjoyable ways to explore. With the rise of e-bikes, covering more ground has become effortless, allowing you to enjoy more of the scenery.

Check out these bikeable locations in Fish Creek Park from Wolf Willow on our blog.

Whether you choose to spend your day floating down the river, angling for trout, or taking in the scenery from shore, adventure awaits you along the Bow River. Want to make outdoor adventures a regular occurrence in your life? Find your new home in Wolf Willow, where the community brings the lifestyle and beauty of the Bow River Valley to your doorstep.