Effective May 12, life jackets must be worn at all times when on the North Saskatchewan River or other bodies of water. See Boating Regulations for more details.
The North Saskatchewan River is more than just water; it connects communities in our area. To make sure everyone can enjoy this important connection, the City maintains many docks and places to launch boats in Edmonton. This helps people to get on the river and explore our large regional park.
Note: Docks are installed on the North Saskatchewan River annually in late June or early July.
This schedule, following high water events from mountain dam water release, protects them from debris damage and ensures their security throughout the season. Docks are removed in mid-fall.
Notifications
Check the notifications before you go. Closures may occur due to water levels, weather or other situations.
Boat and Canoe Launch Locations
Locations Listing
Location: South side of river at the end of 50 Street
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Hand, Vehicle and Dock Launch
Location: North of 103a Avenue and 89 Street
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Hand and Dock Launch
Location: Emily Murphy Road and Groat Road
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Hand Launch
Location: 2115 Hermitage Road
Access to: Main Pond
Launch Type: Floating Dock
Location: Southeast of the park washrooms, north side of the river
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Dock Launch
Location: Northwest of the parking lot
Access to: Lake
Launch Type: Hand Launch
Location: Northeast of current boat launch
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Hand and Dock Launch
Location: Northeast of parking lot
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Hand Launch
Location: West of Whitemud Creek, north of Fort Edmonton Park Road
Access to: North Saskatchewan River
Launch Type: Dock Launch
All rafts, boats or vessels under 6 metres in length must carry:
- A buoyant heaving line or throw bag of at least 15 metres in length
- A bailer or bilge pump
- A whistle or sounding device
- One manual propelling device (paddle or oars) or an anchor with not less than 15 metres of cable, rope or chain in any combination
Full boating regulations are available from Transport Canada.
Mandatory Lifejackets in Edmonton
For your safety, anyone in, on, or holding onto a watercraft on the North Saskatchewan River or other waterways must wear an approved lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times.
Personal Non-Motorized Watercraft
Personal non-motorized watercraft are welcome in the main pond at Hermitage Park and in the lake at Northeast River Valley Park.
Alternatively, enjoy the North Saskatchewan River by using one of its various launch sites.
Please note: If a launch site does not have vehicle access directly to the water, you will need to carry your watercraft from a designated parking area to the launch area.
Launch Etiquette
Prep Off-Ramp: Get your boat and gear ready before you get to the water's edge. Load paddles, lifejackets, and bags away from the launch area.
Clear the Area: Once your boat is launched, move your vehicle and any remaining gear out of the way for the next person. Ensure vehicles and trailers are parked in designated parking spaces.
Mind the Flow: Be aware of other users, both those launching and those returning. Wait your turn and avoid crowding the launch.
Pack it In, Pack it Out: Leave no trace. Take all your garbage and gear with you.
From Ponds to Paddles: Water Access
Glide across the peaceful waters at Northeast River Valley Park's lake or Hermitage Park’s main pond for a calm paddling experience.
Want to learn to canoe? Tandem Canoe Programs are offered at Hermitage Park.
While personal watercraft are not allowed on Rundle Park’s pond, the Edmonton Paddling Centre Society offers group paddling lessons for those who are interested.
Paddle Boat Rentals
For those who want a more relaxed experience, pedal boat rentals are available at Rundle Park through My Lakehouse. No prior experience is required.
Stormwater Lakes
For public safety, any activity that may result in direct contact with water in stormwater lakes is not allowed: this includes wading, swimming, boating, fishing and skating.
The City has signage posted at all stormwater facilities advising residents to keep off the water/ice because conditions are unknown. Due to the nature and the function of stormwater lakes, conditions can be unpredictable and dangerous. Moving water, temperature changes underwater due to vegetation or drainage and fluctuating weather conditions can all result in unsafe conditions not visible from the surface.
Other River Valley Activities
Explore other activities you can do outdoors for the season in the River Valley.
Contact Us
311 Contact Centre
Phone 311 | Outside Edmonton and Video Relay Service (VRS): 780-442-5311 | TTY 711