Riding the Waves in the Heart of the Rockies
Tucked away in the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, the Kananaskis River offers a unique adventure that’s gaining popularity every season – river surfing. Yes, you read that right. Surfing isn’t just for ocean coasts anymore. With the right river conditions, you can hang ten right here in Alberta.
Surf’s Up at the Surfers Wave The Surfers Wave, located by the Kananaskis Information Centre, is a popular spot for river surfing. This wave was created from a flat river section in 2014 by the organization Surf Anywhere for the Alberta River Surfing Association. It’s a permanent wave that surfers can ride for free, with the added benefit of ending up in roughly the same spot that you start.
Riding the Wave River surfing is one of the world’s hottest emerging sports, and the Calgary area, including the Kananaskis River, has some of the best waves to conquer. The wave is challenging and thrilling, making it a high-risk but high-reward activity. It’s important to note that the fast current, shifting rocks, and remote location make it a more dangerous challenge.
Best Time to Surf The best time to surf the Kananaskis River is during the summer months, from May to October. During this time, the water levels are ideal for surfing, however, as the river’s flow is controlled by and upstream dam, you can surf all year if you’re brave enough!
Safety First Safety is paramount when river surfing. The Alberta rivers are shallow, so a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or impact vest is strongly recommended to keep you away from the bottom when you fall. It’s also advised to introduce yourself to other surfers and respect that they are there to enjoy surfing.
Join the Community The river surfing community in Alberta is passionate and welcoming. Organizations like the Alberta River Surfing Association and Surf Anywhere are dedicated to building river waves around the world and protecting them. They also provide resources for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
River surfing on the Kananaskis River offers an unforgettable adventure. So grab your board, respect the river, and get ready to ride the waves in the heart of the Rockies.
