River Features

Highlights: Chute with a small drop Boils and strong eddy lines Can be retentive in certain flow conditions Location/Access Widowmaker is the very first feature on the Upper Kananaskis River, located directly at the aptly named Widowmaker parking lot. It marks the traditional starting point for most downriver runs. Paddlers can put in above the feature by at the base of the rocky outcrop (river right), or by seal-launching down the side of it. Spectators can get a great view

If you’re new to paddling the Upper Kan, there’s one key thing you need to understand before getting on the water: the flow is controlled. The Upper Kananaskis River is not a natural, free-flowing river. Water levels here are regulated by the Barrier Dam, a hydroelectric dam operated by TransAlta. That means paddling conditions can change significantly depending on when and how much water is being released. Where to Find Flow Information TransAlta publishes scheduled release