WATER SPORTS

Canoeing
Paddle along the Bow River, Forty Mile Creek or Vermilion Lakes and discover the peace and beauty of Banff National Park. The canoe rental office is located in the town of Banff, at the corner of Wolf Street and Bow Avenue. Rentals are available all day on a first-come, first-serve basis. Canoeing is available from mid-May until the end of September. A windbreaker is recommended due to weather changes.

Canoeing at Lake Louise
Paddle on the emerald waters of Lake Louise and enjoy the spectacular view of Victoria Glacier. Canoe rentals are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and the canoe dock is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Lake Louise is located 45 minutes west of Banff. In case of a weather change, a windbreaker is recommended.

Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise to Devil's Gap
The Devil's Gap Cruise originates from the Lake Minnewanka boat dock, a scenic 15 minute drive from the hotel. This interpretive cruise departs several times daily and travels beneath Mt. Aylmer and Mt. Ingilsmaldie to Devil's Gap. All boats are glass enclosed and heated in inclement weather. Washroom facilities and a food concession are available on-shore. The cruise is approximately one hour and 30 minutes in length and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Contact the Concierge for a schedule of cruise times.

Lake Minnewanka Boat Rentals
Spend an afternoon relaxing and having fun on Lake Minnewanka. These small 16-ft. aluminum boats-to-hire are self-driven and come complete with the necessary safety equipment. Boat rentals are on a first-come, first-serve basis. A windbreaker is recommended along with long pants. During the months of May, June and September, gloves are recommended for morning and evening sailing. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Lake Minnewanka Guided Charter Fishing Trips
Enjoy a relaxing time fishing for trout at Lake Minnewanka. Guided fishing trips on the 22-ft. cabin cruiser are three hours and 30 minutes in duration and include all necessary equipment and licensed guides. A choice of sailing times is available at 9:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. A National Parks fishing permit is required and can be purchased for a nominal fee from the Lake Minnewanka Office on the boat dock. Contact the Concierge for reservations. A windbreaker and long pants are recommended. During the months of May, June and September, gloves are recommended for morning and evening trips

River Float Trips
The 45-minute River float trip travels on gentle class-2 rapids down Banff's Bow River. Life jackets are provided and swimming experience is not necessary. You are also welcome to bring along a camera and binoculars. Several departures are available throughout the day. Contact the Concierge for same-day sign-up. A windbreaker and an older pair of sneakers are recommended.

Whitewater Rafting
The ultimate whitewater experience starts with transportation from The Fairmont Banff Springs and a two hour drive through the Rocky Mountains to the Kicking Horse River in British Columbia. Enjoy the scenery as you float leisurely down the river, then stop for a barbecue lunch. Afterwards, the excitement level is raised - you're in for an invigorating and exhilarating ride. Wet suits, boots and life jackets are provided. Reservations are required, please book through the Concierge. This excursion lasts approximately 8.5 hours. Children must be a minimum of 90 lb. (41 kg) in order to participate. Available end of May until mid-September. Bring running shoes (which will get wet), a bathing suit to wear under your wet suit and a towel.