When you think of western Canada, mountain views and pristine waterways come to mind—and Cochrane’s got it all. The glacial-fed Bow River snakes right through our small town located 20 minutes from Calgary, and there are lakes to the west and north where you can cool off in the summer heat.
Whether you’re looking for a guided water activity or a self-led adventure at your own pace, you’ll find it in Cochrane. You don’t need to venture farther than the foothills for the best lakes near Calgary, where there’s tons to do outdoors. Here are our favourite ways to spend a summer day on the water.
River floats, paddleboard rentals, and more
Nature has a way of creating balance. Spend some time outside in Cochrane, and you’ll find the perfect balance of high-energy fun and chill, down-to-earth vibes. It’s no different on the water, where we’ve got activities for everyone to try.
Find beginner-friendly fun with Kelsey’s Caravan
Looking for a water activity that’s fun, safe, and that’ll help you build your confidence? Kelsey’s Caravan Water Adventures are designed for exactly that purpose. Kelsey’s fully-guided tours are all about creating memories on the water while you learn. Even first-timers will feel at ease on her trips.
You can start off slow with a relaxing float down the Bow River, or opt for something more exciting like a day of rafting or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). With a mission to get Albertans out on the water in unique ways, Kelsey’s Caravan is the only company in the area that takes you down the Cochrane section of the Bow River. You’re in for a real treat.
Ladies can also join a Women on the Water Board Night, which Kelsey hosts through the summer at Forgetmenot Pond in Kananaskis Country, about an hour from Cochrane. These casual evenings offer a welcoming environment to socialize with other women who love the outdoors. All equipment is provided and no SUP experience is needed.
Experience a legacy of guiding with Hunter Valley Adventures
You’ll be in expert hands with Hunter Valley Adventures owners Kelly and Shea Beaton, who’ve been running outdoor excursions in Alberta for 40 years. Bring the whole family white water rafting, canoeing, or fishing to unplug and reconnect. Kelly and Shea’s expertise and passion for nature ensure that you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.
A leadership and team building facilitator in a previous life, Kelly loves developing personalized outdoor programs for visitors to Cochrane. And anglers will appreciate Shea’s strong understanding and respect of fish habitat and river sustainability.
Our top recommendations? The family-friendly Bow River float for those who prefer a slower pace, or the full-day white water rafting trip for the thrill-seekers, where you’ll fly down the Upper Red Deer River on Class II and III rapids.
Choose your own adventure with GhostekNorth
Locals and visitors alike flock to Ghost Lake in summertime — the home of GhostekNorth, just 20 minutes west of Cochrane on Hwy 1A. You can take your pick of water activities on this massive lake with mountain views for miles. It’s undoubtedly one of the best lakes near Calgary.
Fun fact: GhostekNorth started out selling toques (how quintessentially Canadian). Today, it’s the only company in the Cochrane area that offers stand-up paddleboard rentals — perfect for those who want to go at their own pace without joining a tour.
If you’re looking for a guided experience, SUP yoga on Ghost Lake in July and August is a nice way to wind down following an afternoon of fun. Classes take place at 6:30 p.m., so you can head into Cochrane for dinner afterward.
For those craving more speed, Ghostek North also offers hydrofoiling. This water activity is a type of surfing that lifts your surfboard above the water using a longer fin that extends into the lake.
Stay on the shore and catch some rays
Not keen on getting out on the lakes near Calgary? Grab a camping chair and hang out by the shore of the Bow River in the heart of Cochrane. It’s another great way to beat the heat. Bring the kids, the dogs (on leash of course), and your favourite non-alcoholic beverage. When you start to feel the sun’s rays, just dip your feet in the water to cool down.
For a lesser-known spot, drive about 30 minutes north of Cochrane to Winchell Lake. It’s a hidden gem for trout fishing, birding, and wildlife viewing.
From canoeing to rafting, Cochrane has it all
When you book a water activity on one of the rivers or lakes near Calgary, your guides will take care of everything. All you need to do is show up with a sense of adventure. Once your excursion is finished and you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of our locally-owned restaurants for more western hospitality.
Want to create a full-day itinerary? Download the Explore Cochrane app for more to see, do, and taste.
