Canoeing, Kayaking & Surfing

Some of the best views in Kananaskis are found on the lakes, rivers, and ponds that mark Kananaskis Country. Majestic mountain lakes filled with glacial runoff wind through the landscape, offering a new perspective of the same commanding Kananaskis scenery. Canoes, kayaks, and SUPs are available for rent at Barrier Lake from Kananaskis Outfitters. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try white-water kayaking. Canoe Meadows is a must-visit. This renowned spot, frequented by Olympians for training, offers world-class conditions and an exhilarating experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of Kananaskis. Whether you’re paddling on serene lakes or tackling challenging rapids, Kananaskis offers an unforgettable adventure for water enthusiasts of all levels.

Kananaskis Adjustable Wave: A New Era for River Surfing & Mountain Adventure

The Lower Kananaskis River is set to become home to one of the most exciting new adventure tourism projects in Canada: the Kananaskis Adjustable Wave.

Designed for both river surfers and freestyle kayakers, this innovative whitewater feature aims to transform Kananaskis into a world-class destination for paddling, competitions, outdoor recreation, and spectator experiences in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Planned for completion in late 2026 or early 2027, the adjustable wave will create new opportunities for visitors to experience the energy of the Kananaskis River — whether they are catching a wave themselves or watching athletes perform against a stunning alpine backdrop.

What Is the Kananaskis Adjustable Wave?

The Kananaskis Adjustable Wave is a modular river feature being built within the Kananaskis Whitewater recreation area on the Lower Kananaskis River, approximately 80 kilometres west of Calgary.

Unlike traditional river waves that remain fixed, this new feature will be adjustable, allowing the wave to shift between configurations optimized for river surfing and freestyle kayaking.

The project is being developed through a partnership between the Alberta Whitewater Association, the Alberta River Surfing Association, and Surf Anywhere — organizations with decades of experience building and maintaining whitewater infrastructure in Alberta.

According to Mike Holroyd, Executive Director of the Alberta Whitewater Association:

“We are looking to create something that can be 50 per cent set up for surfing, like basically a big glassy green wave, and 50 per cent for kayaking, which would have a little bit more of a breaking pile on it for freestyle stuff.”

A Unique Canadian Rockies Experience

While many Canadian Rockies destinations are known for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing, Kananaskis continues to build its reputation as one of Canada’s leading outdoor adventure destinations.

The adjustable wave has the potential to set Kananaskis apart by offering something few mountain destinations in North America can claim:

• World-class river surfing
• Freestyle kayaking infrastructure
• Spectator-friendly whitewater recreation
• International competition potential
• Beginner-friendly progression opportunities

For visitors, it means a chance to experience mountain adventure culture in an entirely new way — alongside glacier-fed rivers, towering peaks, and the energy of an active outdoor community.

More Than a Sport — A Spectator Attraction

Even for visitors who never plan to step into a kayak or surfboard, the adjustable wave is expected to become a unique riverside attraction within Kananaskis.

The project area already features staging and viewing spaces with easy road access and pathways to the river, making it an ideal place to gather and watch the action unfold.

Visitors may soon be able to:

• Watch river surfers carve through standing waves
• See freestyle kayakers perform aerial tricks and technical maneuvers
• Attend whitewater festivals and competitions
• Experience the atmosphere of live outdoor sporting events in the mountains
• Enjoy riverside viewing areas during summer adventures in Kananaskis

The wave is also expected to strengthen existing events like KanFest while opening the door for future national and international competitions.

Beginner-Friendly Opportunities & Lessons

One of the most exciting aspects of the adjustable wave is its versatility.

Because the feature can be modified for different wave styles and conditions, it may help create more approachable environments for:

• First-time river surfers
• Kayaking lessons and coaching
• Youth camps and paddling programs
• Recreational paddlers building skills
• Athlete training and progression

The adjustable design aims to create a more consistent and controlled wave experience while still offering challenging features for advanced athletes.

How the Adjustable Wave Works

The wave will use a reinforced concrete and steel modular structure installed directly into the river. Berms made from large boulders will help direct water flow, while an adjustable wedge system will shape the wave itself.

This design allows operators to customize the wave for different uses:

• A smooth, glassy wave for river surfing
• A breaking wave feature for freestyle kayaking
• Adjustable settings for training, recreation, and competitions

Extensive engineering and wave modelling have already been completed, including physical and 3D computer modelling research conducted with the University of Ottawa.

A Major Boost for Tourism in Kananaskis

The Kananaskis Adjustable Wave is expected to become a major driver of tourism and recreation in the region.

Project estimates suggest the wave could generate more than $575,000 annually in new economic activity through visitor spending and international events.

The broader Kananaskis Whitewater area already contributes approximately $33 million annually to the local economy through outdoor recreation and tourism.

The project is also expected to:

• Attract new visitors to Kananaskis
• Increase overnight stays and shoulder-season travel
• Support local accommodations, restaurants, and outfitters
• Grow Alberta’s adventure tourism economy
• Position Kananaskis as a global river recreation destination

Building on Kananaskis’ Whitewater Legacy

Kananaskis Whitewater has been shaped by Alberta’s paddling community for more than 40 years, with local organizations completing 12 successful river construction projects since the 1980s.

The adjustable wave builds on that legacy while aligning with Alberta tourism and recreation development goals focused on growing visitor experiences and river recreation opportunities.

The project has also received strong support from tourism organizations, paddling groups, businesses, and government representatives across Alberta.

Construction Timeline

Planning for the adjustable wave began in 2007, with years of engineering, research, and environmental studies helping shape the final design.

Current timelines include:

• Fabrication of the modular structure in 2025
• Ongoing permitting and grant approvals through 2026
• Installation targeted for Fall 2026
• Opening anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027

Why Visitors Will Love the Kananaskis Adjustable Wave

The adjustable wave will offer a completely new way to experience Kananaskis.

Visitors will be able to:

• Watch athletes surf and kayak in the Canadian Rockies
• Experience one of Canada’s first adjustable river waves
• Learn river surfing or freestyle kayaking
• Attend future competitions and festivals
• Explore the Kananaskis Whitewater recreation area
• Enjoy a vibrant riverside atmosphere surrounded by mountain scenery

As the project moves toward completion, the Kananaskis Adjustable Wave is already generating excitement within Alberta’s outdoor community — and it may soon become one of the most unique adventure tourism attractions in the Canadian Rockies.