Riding the Wave: The Emergence of River Surfing in Alberta
Photo: Ryan Sauve
When you think of surfing, your mind might instantly conjure up images of sun-soaked beaches, palm trees, and endless ocean swells. However, there's a new and exhilarating surfing scene emerging in a landlocked Canadian province—Alberta. Yes, you read that right! The land of the Rockies and vast prairies is now home to a thriving river surfing community. In this blog, we'll dive into the exciting world of river surfing in Alberta and explore how it's taking the adventure sports scene by storm.
The Birth of River Surfing in Alberta
The origins of river surfing in Alberta can be traced back to the late 1990s and early 2000s when a small group of adventurous individuals decided to experiment with surfing on the province's rivers. While Alberta may not have the coastline that traditional surfers enjoy, it boasts an abundance of rivers, especially in the foothills and mountain regions. The Bow River in Calgary and the Kananaskis River are among the hotspots for this growing sport.
Surfing Alberta's Rivers
River surfing in Alberta is a unique experience. Unlike ocean surfing, which relies on the natural movement of waves, river surfers depend on the dynamic and ever-changing river features to create waves. In essence, river surfing involves riding standing waves, which are created by underwater features such as rocks, drops, or bridges that channel the river's flow into a surfable wave.
Surfers typically use specially designed boards that are shorter and more agile than traditional surfboards. These boards are designed to navigate the fast-moving and turbulent river waters. River surfers also wear wetsuits and helmets for safety, as the conditions can be challenging and unpredictable.
River Surfing Spots in Alberta
- Kananaskis River: Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Kananaskis River offers an exhilarating river surfing experience. With a variety of wave features and a beautiful natural setting, it's a favorite among both locals and tourists.
- Highwood River: Another gem in Alberta's river surfing scene, the Highwood River is known for its powerful waves and breathtaking scenery. The waves here can reach impressive heights, making it a challenging spot for experienced surfers.
- Bow River: The Bow River, which winds its way through Calgary, offers a unique urban river surfing experience. Surfers can catch waves just steps away from the city's downtown core, making it a convenient option for those living in or visiting Calgary.
The Community and Culture
What makes the river surfing scene in Alberta truly special is its tight-knit community. River surfers in the province share a common love for the sport and a strong commitment to preserving the natural environment. They often gather at local surf spots to share tips, tricks, and stories, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Events and Competitions
Alberta's river surfing scene is growing in popularity, leading to the organization of events and competitions. The Alberta River Surfing Association (ARSA) has been instrumental in promoting the sport and hosting events like the Alberta River Surfing Championships, bringing together surfers from across the province and beyond.
Conclusion
While Alberta may not have an ocean, it offers something equally exciting for adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts—river surfing. With its unique challenges and breathtaking natural settings, river surfing in Alberta is quickly gaining recognition on the global adventure sports scene. Whether you're a seasoned surfer looking for a new challenge or a novice wanting to dip your toes into the world of river surfing, Alberta's rivers have something to offer for everyone. So, grab your board, wetsuit, and a sense of adventure, and ride the wave of the emerging river surfing scene in Alberta!