Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a traditional Hawaiian sport that will not only provide an amazing hobby, but also get people in the best shape of their lives. SUP’ing, as it is called by some, an abbreviation for Stand Up Paddleboarding, is a great way to build endurance, balance, core strength and http://www.goldenriveradventures.com/wp-admin/post-new.php#overall physical and mental health. It is said that If you can balance standing up, you can paddle board!!

Stand Up Paddleboarding is the fastest growing sport in the world

Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) is the fastest growing sport around the world right now for good reason. It’s easy, there’s a low learning curve, and most people can jump on a board their first time out with no previous experience or lessons. It’s also a great family sport because parents can take turns out on the water while the children play at the beach. Once you build up a bit of confidence, you can also start taking the kids out with you on your board. School-aged kids and teens will be able to try paddling by themselves on a shorter board making SUP a great sport for the whole family to participate in together. Before you head out for the first time, you’ll need to get yourself equipped with a board, paddle, and PFD. Few lakes near Calgary, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta for that matter offer on-site rentals on site so you will likely have to visit one of the outdoor rental shops in Calgary before you head out. Fortunately there are several options.

Hi Ho! Off SUPPING we shall go!!

Stand Up Paddle Board Rental Locations Near Calgary

Undercurrents in Bowness provides rental packages as well as inflatable roof racks for your car to ensure you have a means of carrying your board.
Aquabatics is another paddling store in Bowness conveniently located across from Canada Olympic Park on the way out of the city. Pay for two days and get one day free.
Mountain Equipment COOP downtown also does SUP rentals at very affordable prices.

Stand Up Paddleboarding on Calgary Lake

Where to Try SUP’ing near Calgary

Ghost Lake – located on the Hwy 1A near Cochrane to the west of Calgary. You will need to rent your own SUP package before you go. The lake can get very windy so time your visit for a calm day and try morning or evening when motor boat traffic is quiet.
Johnston Lake – located in Banff National Park on the Lake Minnewanka Loop road, this lake is one of the warmest in the park. There’s a great beach area for the whole family and the lake is shallow in many places. There are no motor moats on this lake making it a great place to try SUP for the first time in a safe environment.
Two Jack Lake – also located on the Lake Minnewanka Loop road, this lake sits beside the popular Two Jack Lakeside campground. Bring a SUP with you on your next camping trip and you’ll be the most popular family on the beach as everybody lines up to try it. There is a small beach area at the day use area and the lake is warmer than many mountain lakes.

It should be noted that SUP is not only limited to lakes. Of course, in the Calgary area, that is all that is accessible. However, once you are comfortable on flatwater, consider taking a guided SUP tour on a slow moving river. Perhaps you will get the chance to tackle small rapids. And, if you get a little nervous, you can always lower to your knees in order to lower your center of gravity.