Alberta's rivers are a jet boater's paradise. Shallow braided channels, mountain scenery, and miles of wilderness await. Here's where to find the best runs.
North Saskatchewan River
The king of Alberta jet boating. From Rocky Mountain House to Edmonton, the North Sask offers diverse conditions—from fast riffles to deep pools. Key runs:
- Rocky to Drayton Valley: Remote wilderness, Class I-II water, excellent camping
- Devon to Edmonton: Easier access, urban scenery, good for beginners
Pembina River
Technical and challenging. The Pembina features tight corners, shallow gravel bars, and requires a skilled hand. Best for experienced operators with smaller boats. Launch at Entwistle or Evansburg.
Brazeau River
Pristine mountain-fed water in the foothills. Access is limited but the scenery is world-class. Plan for multi-day trips and bring camping gear.
Red Deer River
Gentler than the North Sask, the Red Deer offers a great introduction to river running. The stretch from Sundre to Red Deer city is particularly popular.
Essential Gear Checklist
- Spare prop and shear pins
- Tow rope and anchor
- River maps or GPS with depth shading
- Safety kill switch (mandatory in Canada)
- Life jackets for all passengers
Know Before You Go
Check water levels on rivers.alberta.ca before every trip. Low water exposes hazards; high water creates dangerous currents. The sweet spot is usually mid-range levels in late summer.
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