Paddleboarding safety

How to safely enjoy your paddleboard

Paddleboarding is a growing sport in the park. As with all nautical and aquatic activities, safety measures must be observed at all times. To be able to paddle on the lakes with peace of mind, people must:

1. Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and a whistle; or:
2. Have a PFD, a whistle AND a floating throw rope.

For tips on what to do in difficult nautical situations, visit In a boat, stay afloat!

Since many lakes are located in the backcountry, it’s important to note that emergency response times can vary, depending on the location of the incident and weather conditions. The right equipment and proper preparation will help keep you safe until help arrives.

Water safety tips

• There are no lifeguards in any of the park’s locations. You are responsible for your own safety.
• Alcohol and cannabis don’t mix with water. Don’t use these substances before or during swimming or boating.
• Always paddle with at least one other person, and stay close to shore.
• Tell someone where you’re going and what time you should be back. If you are heading on a longer trip, let your friends and family know when you should be expected back and when you’ve made it off the water.
• Check weather conditions and forecasts.
• Be aware of fog, wind and other hazards. Remember that you’ll have to paddle back to where you started!
• If you see bad weather approaching, paddle closer to shore, as winds can change quickly and create large waves in a matter of minutes. Get off the water if there is thunder or lightning.

For general information on how to stay safe when enjoying outdoor activities, visit Adventuresmart. The sections on water safety and paddleboarding will help you expand your safety knowledge.

Before you launch your paddleboard in the park, it’s ESSENTIAL that you clean, drain and dry your watercraft to reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Learn more about how to reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species!

Choose an activity at your level and don’t hesitate to ask for help from members of our team. An activity at your level and for which you have the knowledge, safety equipment and physical abilities to stay safe will ensure an enjoyable experience. You are responsible for your own safety.