County Waters Kayaking

08/28/2024

Safety post.
Often folks joining us wish to use their own lifejacket or PFD (personal floatation device). We are totally ok with that but sometimes we can't allow it. Why not? Well often people go buy a lifejacket or pfd online and don't realize that the one they purchased isn't safe or legal in Canada. What? That's right, lifejackets and PFDs must be labeled as approved by either Transport Canada, Canadian Coast Guard, or Fisheries and Oceans. You may see a ULC or CAN/CGSB number as well. Additionally, your lifejacket will have the Newton rating on it. Here in Canada, lifejackets with less than 69N rating are no longer considered a PFD or lifejacket, but rather a "bouyancy aid." Basically that's a fancy term for a set of water wings.
Lifejackets older than 10 years old should not be relied on as materials including internal foam can deteriorate and cause it to become less buoyant. Additionally, sun damage (fading) not only harms the outer shell, but can rot stitching and cause plastic clips to become brittle leading to failure. Sitting on, folding/bending, or crushing the foam can also lead to less buoyancy.
There's a lot to remember when it comes to keeping yourself afloat in an emergency. Make sure you are wearing an approved lifejacket or pfd and in good shape. We will always have a properly fitted, approved, newer lifejacket designed for paddling available for all our guests. Size xxs-xxl.
Remember that your lifejacket can only save you if you are wearing it.
Keep safe and happy paddling

08/25/2024

This week is going to be the absolute BEST! We have tours available to join Monday thru Wednesday. Join us this week for fun on local lakes for relaxing kayakjng. As always, our two hour tours are $50/single, $75/tandem, $25/youth 4-11 and include kayak, paddle, lifejacket, safety equipment, waterproof phone case, dry bag, and basic instructions.

Give us a call at 780-605-3688 for information and booking for rentals and tours or check us out online at www.countywaterskayaking.ca

08/23/2024

Ever have a day you want to escape from? Have you thought of maybe paddling your thoughts off into the sunset? Find some peace in the beauty of it all? We can help you with that. Kayak tours every evening. Check out our schedule online or book your own adventure. Give us a call for information and reservations. 780-605-3688

08/23/2024

A peaceful evening last night. The water was perfect, the pelicans were plentiful, and the weather beautiful. Feeling so grateful to spend time on the water with so many wonderful people each day.
If you'd like to book a full day rental or join us for a guided tour, please give us a call at 780-605-3688.

08/22/2024

Finally seeing that sun shine! Whoot! So excited to be on Buffalo Lake again this evening. Hoping for some big pelican sightings before they fly away for the season. There's still room for a few to join us this evening. New and past guests always welcome. Give us a call at 780-605-3688 for details and booking.

08/22/2024

The forecast this evening, is perfect for a sunset paddle around Rochon Sands on Buffalo Lake. Join us Thursday Aug 22, from 7pm-9pm for a short two hour kayak tour following the provincial park shoreline and across the to the bird rock for some spectacular views. Room for several more people to join us. Tour includes kayak, paddle,, lifejacket, safety equipment, waterproof phone case, waterproof bag, and basic instructions. Beginners welcome. Family friendly. No rolling or swimming required. $50/ single, $75/ tandem, $25/ youth 4-11.
Please call for information and booking.
780-605-3688

08/22/2024

This pup paddleboards! I bet she would love to kayak too. If you're looking for a furry friend to join your family, perhaps she's the pup for you.

08/21/2024

Bring your furry friend with you! We welcome all well behaved pups to paddle with us. All we ask is that your dog is wearing a lifejacket and you bring a bathmat or other item to protect our kayaks from accidental claw marks. Book your pooch paddle today!

08/21/2024

https://maps.app.goo.gl/FkPHuS8xWT1K2gXe8

Asking for your help to get us back on the map. Please consider leaving a review of your kayaking experience with us. All our previous reviews have been lost and we really need more to keep us going. We are so grateful for all our past, present, and future guests and hope to continue to provide you with the best kayaking here in Alberta.

Update. As fast as the business gets relisted, he keeps trying to shut it down. Im so upset these attacks keep continuing.

Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

08/21/2024

Alix Lake is calling us this evening. Join us from 7pm-9pm for a slow paced, relaxing kayak tour. See the birds, beavers, and pretty natural shorelines while we enjoy an easy paddling experience. Perfect lake for beginners, seniors, children, and those wanting a more laid back time on the water. Everything included in your tour. Kayak, paddle, lifejacket, safety equipment, waterproof phone case, waterproof bag to bring a sweater or snack, and of course basic instruction. Your guide is there to keep you entertained and on track throughout your tour.
Single kayak $50. Tandem kayak $75. Youth 4-11 $25. Bring your own kayak $25. Sorry, no inflatables or paddleboards.
Give us a call for booking and information. 780-605-3688

08/21/2024

Super cool to be part of their day exploring Lacombe County.

08/20/2024

She's a scorcher forecast today. Let's all go beat the heat and tour the shaded shoreline of the Chain Lake. See some leftover lillies, some beavers, some waterfowl, and likely some predatory birds too. This could mean a hawk, falcon, eagle, or the always suspicious, cobra chicken. Awesome lake perfect for beginners. We supply everything you need and take you a leisurely paddle around the lake. No rolling or swimming required. Family friendly. 7pm-9pm Single $50, Tandem Kayak $75, Jr 4-11 $25, ByoKayak for $25. Give us a call for information and booking. 780-605-3688

08/20/2024

We knew we had to cut it short today due to sketchy forecast so we launched early and got a nice paddle in before the weather could became a concern. Lots of birds on the water which is nice to see. Young ones too. Tomorrow we are headed to Ponoka County to paddle on the First Chain Lake. Still room for several to join us. Call for information and booking. 780-605-3688

08/19/2024

These White Faced Ibis are always a favorite to see on Alix Lake. Back there on Wednesday Aug 21rst 7-9pm with room for more to join us. Beginner friendly kayak tours. We supply all you need for a relaxing, fun, safe experience on the water. Call or msg for details and booking. $50/single $75/tandem $25/youth 4-11 and those that have their own kayaks.

08/18/2024

Happy Sunday! This week's schedule is up and we are excited for great weather and beautiful lakes to visit.

Unfortunately not all lakes are able to be visited due to algae blooms, but not to fret, there's spectacular scenery available to be experienced elsewhere.

Monday Aug 19th we are back on Lacombe Lake for beavers, muskrats, birds, and of course, that beautiful sunset. Room for up to 6 people to join us. A quiet lake for kids and seniors.

Tuesday we are in Ponoka County at the first Chain Lake to see the neat cottages, huge tree fort, lilies, and some extra spicey beavers.

Wednesday brings us to Alix Lake, thread little gem that's always a favorite with bird watchers. Ruddy ducks, loons, mergansers, and ibis are always popular here. Definitely the lake to visit if you enjoy feathery friends.

Mixing it up a bit by heading to Rochon Sands on Thursday. This big lake has super neat cottages, provincial park shores, sandy beaches, and that really cool island that's almost always full of big birds to see like cormorants and pelicans. The sunset? Honestly, it's probably going i take your breath away. Absolute vibrance every time.

We are leading Friday and the weekend up to you to choose your own adventure. If you'd like to schedule a tour on a lake or have us guide you for the day along a section of the Red Deer River, we can do that. Give us a call and let's make that happen.

Rentals available daily. Every rental and tour includes kayak, paddle, type 1 paddling lifejacket for comfort and fit, a waterproof/floating phone case, a waterproof bag to bring along some items with you, all safety equipment. We will ensure you have instructions on how to paddle, how to use the safety equipment, and what to do in case of emergency.

We are committed to providing fun, safe, and memorable kayaking experiences to all our guests and clients. Remember to like and follow our page for up to date tour schedules, special events, and promotions.

08/17/2024

Ready to roll for the Alix Days Parade

08/17/2024

Getting some treats ready for Saturday's Alix Parade and Fun Day. This is going to be so much fun! Come check out all the events in the village of Alix tomorrow. Parade starts at 10am. Kayak rentals at campground beach to follow. See you there!

08/16/2024

Excited for the future. There's great things in store. Bigger, better, more services, more kayaks, more places, more adventures. Couldn't do it without all the kindness, support, and encouragement from my awesome guests and crew. Together we can get more people paddling and learning all the physical and mental health benefits of recreational kayaking. Thank you everyone for being with us through the beginning, our growth, our struggles, and our triumphs. You are all a part of making this big dream come true ❤️

08/16/2024

I haven't paddled in 2 days. This is unheard of with such nice weather. Well let's hope for the wind to calm down and the sun to shine, then we can get back out on the water. Rentals available 7/week. Friday wind is looking offensive but there's always hope for it to slow down. We are at Alix Lake all day Saturday for tours and rentals. Family tours available on Sunday at the lake of your choice. Call for information and booking. 780-605-3688

08/15/2024

Squeeee Happy Dance! Truck is all fixed and looking better than ever. Fresh new tires and ready to roll. Won't have time to decorate for the parade but if you come to the lake, we'll have treats for you anyway. Who doesn't want post parade treats? I don't know if you can tell, but I'm pretty excited to be going to Alix this weekend :)

Recently we had a mechanical issue with our truck. We wont be able to have it repaired in time to participate in the Alix Days Parade on Saturday but you can bet we'll be at the beach with all our gear to supply you with the best kayaking fun in the County. See you at the beach!

08/14/2024

Phew, she's smokey out there today. The air quality is quite poor today and thus, i believe we will have to reschedule paddling today on Alix. Our guests health and safety is of utmost importance so we will err on the side of caution. Im sure the Alberta winds will clear it all up in time for Saturday Alix Days. We'll be at the campground beach for rentals and tours with a selection of our fleet including children's, youth, adults, and tandem kayaks. All you need will be supplied with every rental. Beginner friendly and we will show you the basics to keep you paddling safe as well as keep a watch on the lake for you if you're a little nervous trying something new. Hope to see you there :)

08/14/2024

Best night I could ask for with amazing people. Beavers, lilies, and great big smiles. Thank you ladies for sharing your evening with me 🩷

08/12/2024

Easy week of paddling lined up.
Today (monday) you are able to book whatever lake youd like in our line up. Tuesday takes us to Lacombe Lake for some relaxing kayaking. Wednesday we hit up Alix Lake for their market snacks and unique bird population. Thursday we head over to Ponoka County to explore the shores of the First Chain Lake. Friday you know we are hitting Buffalo Lake for those spectacular sunsets. Need a fun thing to do on Saturday? Come to Alix for the parade, kids activities, rodeo, and beach fun! We will be there with rentals for all ages as well as tossing treats in the parade! Sunday and all the other days, are available for private bookings as well as rentals. Give us a call at 780-605-3688 for information and booking.

08/12/2024

I've calmed down from yesterday's event. So it's time for that safety chat.

I repeatedly have seen postings from many on social media, marketplace, online ads, and other advertising for kayak/canoe/sup rentals, tours, and other excursions. Some are from reputable, legitimate, businesses in Alberta. However most of these we are seeing posted are from individuals and unregistered businesses that have had zero training, lack any experience, carry no insurance, operate illegally without license or permit, and have not got a clue about the legal requirements to do anything they are doing. The unsuspecting consumer is the one paying the price for the incompetence and negligent practices of these so called businesses. This can easily result in accidents and death. Let's get into this.

Recently we have had not one, but TWO run ins with an unscrupulous operator of a canoe rental business in Central Alberta. They are providing vessels without the legally required safety gear, providing lifejackets clearly made 30 or 40 years ago, sun-rotten, missing buckles, and not meant for the size paddler intended (and that's for the ones they do supply, we discovered some had none at all available) as well as broken, damaged, weather-rotten and split paddles. We wound up towing three stranded, unsupervised youth nearly 8km to safety because of this. Last season we also had to do THREE seperate rescues on the water. We had to assist people that had rented kayaks from 2 other different companies, sent out without any emergency equipment and not given basic instruction how to paddle or save themselves. One was a larger framed gentleman in a lifejacket made for a petite person, that couldn't be done up, that could not swim, more than a kilometer from shore, and clinging to an overturned kayak! Imagine had we not come along to right his vessel, bail it out, assist him back in it, and get him back to shore. Terrifying.

We see posts for kayak rentals for super cheap rates, usually someone that has picked up a Costco kayak trying to make a quick buck. I get it, times are tough, but this isn't cool. Many rent out kayaks that arent designed for the water type intended or have damaged hulls or the kayak doesnt fit the paddler's height and weight. Just because that kayak is rated for 300 pounds, doesn't mean a 300 pound person can paddle it safely.

When it comes to insurance, these people/business's usually claim their house insurance will cover them. News flash, it doesn't. Not them, you, or the property owner of where you plan to take that kayak. Don't even get me started on what would happen if your rental kayak flew off a moving car. Eek. We know we have been asked for proof of insurance for groups and events so it should be no big deal for you to ask for it too. Know you are protected. The counties we operate in allow use of their launch sites commercially only with proof of legal operations and proof of insurance too. If that business you are renting/ touring with isn't registered with the county, they probably aren't legit and if you twist an ankle, get hurt, or worse, you aren't likely covered. Insurance policies aren't so easily obtained and require the operator to show proof of experience, training, certifications, and competency in the activities listed in the policy. Strict safety plans and protocols need laid out for approval. A waiver doesn't cover it in the slightest and only ensures a participant knows their responsibilities. It does not negate the operator from having to fully be responsible for safety of their guests and from being accountable for their services.

Now let's talk about tours. No matter if you're headed out on a fun paddle around a sheltered lake, float down a lazy river, or perhaps a more adventurous overnight excursion, your tour operator must be qualified to look after you. That is what you are paying for afterall. Imagine us yesterday, discovering underage people, alone, abandoned by their guide and group, trying to figure it out on their own unsuccessfully, drifting down the river half swamped. What if we hadn't come along? They were not even noticed missing despite being separated for over an hour! The reality is its more common than you'd think that people get themselves into trouble on the water without proper instruction and supervision. Paddle sports need not be dangerous if you are given the right tools to keep you safe. Being provided the wrong size vessel, the wrong size lifejacket, the wrong paddle, can all create situations where an inconvenience becomes an emergency. Not being given safety instructions and basic paddling knowledge before you launch can be critically catastrophic. Have you been shown how to paddle, how to launch/land, how to adjust your equipment? Do you know what all the safety equipment in the boats are for and how to use it all? Is the person in charge trained and experienced in the activity, water safety, water rescue, and first aid? Do they have the additional equipment to save you in an emergency? They are supposed to be there to keep you safe. Ask the questions. You need to know before you go.

Transport Canada and Paddle Canada have mandated laws in place that all marine commercial businesses must adhere to regardless of activity. We are advocates for safe paddling and adhere to these laws and beyond for your safety. We don't offer lessons at this time, but you need to know that businesses and individuals offering classes and courses in paddle sports must also be certified in coaching by either Canoe Kayak Canada or Paddle Canada. There are many certified instructors here in Central Alberta we can recommend for those looking to further their skills in kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Remember, it's up to the consumer to research with whom they contract for rentals, tours, lessons, and all other activities on the water.

We really don't like having to rescue people that have been put at risk due to the unscrupulous actions of some business owners. As for yesterday, we aren't taking this lightly and have reported the event to the proper authorities.

As always, we remain committed to providing safe, fun kayaking here in Alberta and wish for everyone very happy paddling.

08/11/2024

Sorry guys, you cant come. Please exit the vehicle and take your fur with you.

08/11/2024

We had an adventurous day on the Red Deer River Our group had fun. Our group came prepared. Our group stayed safe. But there's going to be a significant post coming up about that OTHER group from ANOTHER company that we had to rescue today. I need to calm down first though. I'm still very upset how that could have ended very poorly for some young people today had we not come along.

08/10/2024

Ever feel like you have everything you need in a single moment? That euphoria? I just had two hours of that feeling. Im out here living my best life, sharing my world on the water with new people every day. Added bonus, the kid tagged along this evening too. ❤️

08/09/2024

So excited for Buffalo Lake this evening. Super excited to float the Red Deer on Saturday. You should get excited and do some kayaking on Sunday! We can help you out with that. We are the only legal mobile kayaking rental and tour business here in Lacombe County and are happy to get you on the water safely. Fully registered, insured, and operating by the laws and guidelines set out by Paddle Canada and Transport Canada to keep you safe. Give us a call at 780-605-3688 for your next kayak adventure.

08/08/2024

Do you follow us on our other social media? Here is a link to our TikTok page. Check out the fun clips of our groups having fun on the water.