The South Saskatchewan River / Photo: CHAT News stock image

By Meghan Cobb

Paddlers reminded to stay safe this summer

Jul 3, 2022 | 4:14 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Paddling the South Saskatchewan river is a popular activity in the summer months for people who want to get outside, get in a bit of a work out and see Medicine Hat from a different perspective.

The river’s water level usually peaks in June, which means paddlers still need to be careful at the beginning of summer.

Pat Bradley with the Medicine Hat Paddling Club says it’s important to watch the water when going paddling this time of year.

“When it’s moving quick sometimes it looks like ‘okay, I can do that’,” Bradley says. “But there’s an undertow and if you catch it wrong and you go under, you can be gone in no time.”

Bradley says rain and melting snow are to blame for the quick currents, adding the city will close the boat launches when it is too dangerous to go out. She says the later into summer it gets, the slower the current becomes.

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“We had one of our members go on the South Saskatchewan yesterday and said it was great,” says Bradley. “Right now there is a bit of a current and that makes it fun, but later on there will be no current and it’s just kind of a really lazy paddle day.”

According to Bradley and the Medicine Hat Paddling Club, regardless of where or when you paddle, safety should always be the top priority. Bradley says there are a few simple guidelines to follow to make sure your paddle is a success.

“Always wear your life jacket,” urges Bradley. “Make sure that it’s fit for you so that you have everything tight and make sure you have a whistle that’s available to you in case you get into some distress.”

Bradley also says to not on out on the water alone, and to let people know where your are paddling. She suggests having a checkpoint when you start and letting someone know when you are off the water.

Some people might think floating the river is a chance to get some sun and enjoy a few drinks, but Bradley stresses that safety should come first, and the drinks should be saved for the patio.

“Don’t paddle alone, wear your life jacket, and no alcohol on the water.”

Echo Dale Park and in Redcliff are the post popular entry points on the South Saskatchewan river for paddlers who end up at the boat launch in Strathcona Park. Bradley says there are other options nearby including Seven Persons Creek.

“We get in at Canyon Estates, just at the bottom of the hill,” says Bradley. “You can portage (carry your boat) around Kin Cooley where the weir is and then you continue under Dunmore Road.”

There is another portage near SAAMIS Memorial and paddlers can get out on the other side of Strathcona Park where the ball diamond is located.