Boating
Banff National Park
Help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Banff National Park!
Did you know? This activity can spread harmful aquatic invasive species (AIS)! To protect park waters all boats, non-motorized watercraft (paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, inflatables, etc.), angling equipment, scuba gear, and other water-related equipment must be Cleaned, Drained, Dried, and Certified before use in Banff National Park.
The following types of watercraft and activities are not permitted on Lake Minnewanka:
- Personal watercraft (Sea Doos, Wave Runners, Jet Skis, Super Jet, Jet boards, etc.)
- Boats with ballast systems, tanks and/or bags including after-market additions
- Towing sports (tubing, water skiing, wake boarding, etc.)
Boats with motors, both gas and electric, are allowed on Lake Minnewanka only.
- There is an unloading ramp and parking area for boats and trailers here.
- There are no public boat docks in the park.
Boat rentals
- Small open motorboats can be rented at Lake Minnewanka.
Important information:
Rules and regulations
- Each person must have a personal flotation device (PFD). Failure to do so may result in a charge under the Small Vessel Regulations.
- Consumption and transportation of open alcohol or cannabis is illegal on watercrafts under the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act.
- An AIS Prevention Self-certification Permit or Parks Canada AIS Prevention Inspection permit is required for all non-motorized watercraft and water-related gear (e.g., canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, fishing gear).
- The Self-certification Permit requires mandatory clean, drain, dry of all non-motorized watercraft and water-related gear, and attestation to these actions. Permits are available online, at visitor centres, at self-serve kiosks at waterbodies, and at Parks Canada watercraft inspection stations in Banff National Park.
- Non-motorized watercraft and water-related gear users that do not meet Self-certification Permit requirements, but still wish to use their equipment within the park should visit a Parks Canada watercraft inspection station. Inspections and issue of a Parks Canada Inspection Permit will occur on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of inspectors.
- Parks Canada Inspection Permit is mandatory for motorized watercraft on Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park.
- Dry time requirements - Parks Canada Self-certification and Inspection Permits will require watercraft and gear used outside of BC, AB, Yukon and Northwest Territories to dry for 30 days and within BC, AB, Yukon and Northwest Territories to dry for 48 hours.
- Inspection of non-motorized watercraft and gear will be available at inspection stations in Banff at Lake Minnewanka and Lake Louise overflow parking lot.
Safety
- Wind Warning: Beware of the very sudden strong winds and waves on Lake Minnewanka; especially in the afternoon.
- Banff's lakes are seldom above 10°C (50° F). A capsize into these waters could result in hypothermia. Read up on hypothermia before you set out.
- For your safety, leave word of your plans and when you plan to return.
What to bring
- Life jacket or PFD for each person
- Whistle, paddle, bailer or water pump, rope, emergency kit and emergency communication device in a waterproof container.
- Wet weather gear to keep you dry, warm and protect you from the wind. It may be a warm day when you start out, but mountain weather can change quickly.
- Complete change of clothing in case you fall in.
Related links
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