Comprehensive Guide to Kayaking on the Red Deer River
What are the Popular Canoeing Sections on the Red Deer River?
The Red Deer River offers various sections suitable for kayaking, each with its unique characteristics and attractions.
Upper Red Deer River:
– Difficulty: This section, from near the Banff park boundary to just above the Dickson Dam, features grade II-III rapids, making it suitable for whitewater kayaking and rafting. It requires a higher level of paddling skill and river reading abilities.
– Key Features: Challenging rapids and drops.
– Notable Landmarks: The section is known for its rugged terrain and is less family-friendly due to the rapids.
Lower Red Deer River:
– Difficulty: This section, downstream of the City of Red Deer, is characterized by moving flatwater with no rapids, making it ideal for novice paddlers and family-friendly trips.
– Key Features: Gentle flow, minimal obstacles, and scenic views of the Alberta badlands.
– Notable Landmarks and Sections:
– Tolman Bridge to Newcastle Park in Drumheller: A popular 53 km weekend trip with minimal rapids and a scenic route through the badlands.
– Content Bridge to Drumheller: Another popular stretch, known for its easy float trip and family-friendly conditions.
– Dinosaur Provincial Park to Jenner: A longer section that offers a mix of badlands scenery and riverine landscapes.
What are the Camping Options along the Red Deer River?
Camping along the Red Deer River is relatively flexible, with both established campgrounds and random sites available.
Established Campgrounds:
– Tail Creek Park, Trenville Park, McKenzie Crossing, Tolman East and West Campgrounds, Starland Recreation Area/Morrin Bridge, Bleriot Ferry Provincial Recreation Area, Pinters Campground, Emerson Bridge Park Campground, Steveville Campground, Dinosaur Provincial Park, and Jenner Campground.
Random Camping Sites:
– Legal Camping: You can legally camp anywhere below the high-water mark, including on midstream islands. However, it is advisable to choose sheltered sites to avoid storms and grazing cattle.
Amenities and Permits:
– Water: River water is not potable; carry a minimum of 4 liters of water per person per day for drinking and cooking. Water can be found in most established campgrounds, but it may be signed non-potable.
– Reservations: For established campgrounds, reservations may be necessary, especially during peak season. Random sites do not require permits but should be chosen with care to avoid private property and ensure safety.
What are the Essential Items to Bring for Kayaking on the Red Deer River?
For a safe and enjoyable kayaking trip on the Red Deer River, consider the following essential items:
Safety Gear:
– Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
– First aid kit
– Whistle
– Safety knife
– Sunscreen and insect repellent
Navigation Tools:
– Map of the Red Deer River (available from Map Town in Calgary)
– Compass
– GPS device or smartphone with GPS app
– River guidebook (e.g., Mark’s Guide for Alberta Paddlers)
Personal Items:
– Clothing suitable for the weather (quick-drying, layers)
– Footwear (water shoes or sandals)
– Hat and sunglasses
– Water bottles or hydration packs
– Food and snacks
– Cooking gear and utensils
– Sleeping bag and tent if camping
Recommended Equipment and Supplies:
– Kayak or canoe
– Paddles
– Water filter or purification tablets (for emergency use)
– Camping gear (if applicable)
– Flashlight or headlamp
– Fire starting equipment (if allowed by local regulations)
– Trash bags and a small shovel for waste disposal