Your Guide to Calgary's Bow River
Essential information for residents and visitors about one of North America's premier urban rivers
Important Safety Disclaimer
This website is for informational purposes only. We are not river experts or certified safety professionals. The Bow River can be extremely dangerous and conditions can change rapidly.
Never enter the river without proper equipment, expert guidance, and professional instruction. All river activities are undertaken at your own risk. Water conditions, flow rates, and safety information provided here may be delayed or inaccurate.
Your safety is your responsibility. In case of emergency, dial 911.
Live River Views
Bow River Live
24/7 live stream from Centre Street Bridge
Samis Road and Centre Street North
View of river pathway and Centre Street Bridge
Updates every 5 minutes
Bow Trail and 14 Street SW
View of Bow Trail intersection
Updates every 5 minutes
Traffic camera feeds provided by The City of Calgary Transportation. Images update every 5 minutes.
Local River Services
Discover trusted local businesses offering river equipment, guided services, and expertise
Equipment rentals and river safety information
Expert fishing guides and equipment
Family-friendly river equipment rentals
River Access Guide
51.0997° N, 114.2189° W
Popular family-friendly location with ample facilities and easy river access.
Best for morning launches. Rental equipment available on-site.
51.0864° N, 114.1614° W
Main staging area for guided tours and experienced rafters.
Strong currents possible. Check conditions before launching.
51.0662° N, 114.1503° W
Scenic location with good facilities and multiple access points.
51.0550° N, 114.0697° W
Popular exit point in downtown Calgary.
Watch for bridge pylons and increased boat traffic.
51.0478° N, 114.0414° W
Convenient downtown exit with good facilities.
Important Safety Information
- Always check river conditions and weather forecast before launching
- Wear appropriate safety equipment including life jackets
- Be aware of your skill level and choose appropriate entry/exit points
- Follow all posted signs and warnings at access points
River News
News feed temporarily unavailable
River Safety Information
Essential guidelines and resources for staying safe around the Bow River
Know Before You Go
Check Conditions
Check river conditions and advisories at Alberta Environment. Assess hazards and match your skill level to current flow rates.
Weather Check
Monitor weather forecasts and reschedule if thunderstorms are predicted.
Essential Equipment
Ensure you have all required safety gear including properly fitted PFDs, spare pump, paddles, and emergency kit.
Proper Watercraft
Use appropriate river-rated equipment. Pool inflatables are not suitable for river use.
Known Hazards
10 Street Wave
Keep north (left) when approaching. Watch for surfers and dangerous wave conditions.
Harvie Passage
- • Eastern passage: Class 3 - Experienced only
- • Western passage: Class 2 - Exercise caution
Bridge Pillars
Can capsize even sturdy rafts. Maintain safe distance.
Water Temperature
Very cold water temperatures year-round. Not suitable for swimming.
Current Speed
Fast-moving water can be deceptively dangerous.
Float Times
Bow River North - Canoes & Kayaks
- West Baker → Inglewood2.5-3.5 hrs
- West Baker → Graves Bridge4-5 hrs
- Edworthy Park → Inglewood1.5-2.5 hrs
- Harvie Passage → Graves Bridge1-2 hrs
Bow River North - Rafts
- West Baker → Shouldice Bridge1.5-2.5 hrs
- West Baker → Sunnyside4-5 hrs
- West Baker → Inglewood4.5-5.5 hrs
- Shouldice Bridge → Sunnyside2-3 hrs
- Shouldice Bridge → St. Patrick's Island3-4 hrs
Bow River South - Canoes & Kayaks
- Graves Bridge → Fish Creek-Sikome1.5-2.5 hrs
- Fish Creek-Sikome → Policeman's Flats1-2 hrs
Bow River South - Rafts
- Harvie Passage → Graves Bridge2-3 hrs
- Graves Bridge → Fish Creek-Sikome3-4 hrs
Drift Boats
- West Baker → Shouldice Bridge3-5 hrs
- Shouldice Bridge → St. Patrick's Island3-5 hrs
- St. Patrick's Island → Graves Bridge3-5 hrs
- Graves Bridge → Policeman's Flats3-5 hrs
Elbow River - All Craft
- Sandy Beach → Stanley Park1 hr
- Sandy Beach → Inglewood3-4 hrs
- Sandy Beach → Stanley Park(Paddleboard)2-3 hrs
Times are estimates and can vary significantly based on water levels and flow rates. June/July typically have higher water levels and faster flow rates.
Understanding River Flow Rates
The Bow and Elbow Rivers can look very different throughout the year. River levels generally rise every spring, with normal spring flows ranging between 70-400 m³/s on the Bow River and 15-80 m³/s on the Elbow River. Levels typically begin decreasing in mid-July towards winter levels.
Bow River Flow Impacts
Unsafe boating conditions; watch for boating advisory.
Some pathways may be impacted.
Potential basement flooding due to higher groundwater. Flooding in some streets and parks.
Overland flooding in some communities. Evacuation may begin.
Elbow River Flow Impacts
Some pathways may be impacted.
Unsafe boating conditions; watch for boating advisory.
Potential basement flooding due to higher groundwater. Flooding in some streets and parks.
Overland flooding in some communities. Evacuation may begin.
Flow rates vary based on snowmelt and rainfall. Always check current conditions before planning river activities. Higher flows generally occur in June and July during peak snowmelt season.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Numbers
- Emergency: 911
- River Rescue: 403-264-1022
- City Parks: 311
Bow River Fishing Guide
World-class trout fishing in the heart of Calgary
Best Seasons
- • Spring: April - June
- • Summer: July - August
- • Fall: September - October
- • Winter: Limited opportunities
Popular Spots
- • Bearspaw Dam
- • Bowness Park
- • Prince's Island
- • Glenmore Trail
Common Species
- • Brown Trout
- • Rainbow Trout
- • Mountain Whitefish
- • Bull Trout (Protected)
Important Information
Licenses & Regulations
- • Alberta Fishing License required
- • Catch and release encouraged
- • Barbless hooks recommended
- • Check local regulations for updates
Local Resources
- • Fishing shops and guides
- • Equipment rentals
- • Fly fishing courses
- • Conservation groups
The Bow River Legacy
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Calgary's iconic river
River & City Development
Modern River Management
Flood Protection
- • Advanced monitoring systems
- • Barrier infrastructure
- • Emergency response plans
- • Community preparedness
Environmental Protection
- • Riparian area restoration
- • Water quality monitoring
- • Wildlife corridors
- • Habitat conservation
Recreation Integration
- • Pathway network expansion
- • River access points
- • Parks development
- • Activity zones
Urban Planning & Development
Current Initiatives
- River District revitalization projects enhancing public spaces
- Green infrastructure implementation for stormwater management
- Sustainable development guidelines for riverside properties
Future Vision
- Enhanced river valley connectivity through new bridges and pathways
- Integration of climate resilient infrastructure
- Expansion of river-based transportation options
Historical Development
Industrial Heritage
From the 1880s to mid-1900s, the Bow River powered Calgary's early industries, including lumber mills, breweries, and power generation facilities. This industrial legacy shaped the city's growth and development patterns along the riverbanks.
Urban Evolution
The transformation from industrial hub to recreational asset marks a significant shift in Calgary's relationship with the river. Modern development focuses on balancing urban growth with environmental stewardship and public access.
Indigenous Heritage
The Bow River, known as "Makhabn" in the Blackfoot language, has been a vital part of Indigenous life for thousands of years. The river's name comes from the reeds that grew along its banks, which were used by the Peigan-Blackfoot people to make bows.
The river valley served as an important gathering place, travel route, and source of sustenance for many Indigenous nations, including the Blackfoot Confederacy, Tsuut'ina, and Stoney Nakoda peoples.
Historical Timeline
Indigenous Peoples
The Bow River valley was home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, serving as a vital resource and sacred place.
Fort Calgary Established
The North-West Mounted Police established Fort Calgary at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers.
First Bridge
Construction of Calgary's first bridge across the Bow River, connecting the growing settlement.
Major Flood
A significant flood event that shaped future development and flood management strategies.
Pathway Development
Beginning of the extensive pathway system along the river banks.
Historic Flood
Calgary experienced its largest flood in modern history, leading to major infrastructure improvements.