We’re officially closed for the 2025 season as of August 24 — thank you for floating with RiverWatch!

#Join our waitlist and be first in line for 2026!

Public bookings for EcoFloats open in spring 2026, but by joining our exclusive waitlist now, you’ll unlock front-of-the-line access to the best dates before they’re released to the public.

Reserve your spot on the waitlist today and make sure you don’t miss out on another unforgettable season on the river!

Click here for waitlist 👉 http://bit.ly/4p7IQjZ

RiverWatch Feast & Floats are:

🥪 The perfect date night. 🛶 A stunning guided river float. 🧺 A pop-up picnic on the riverside. 🌅 The perfect way to spend a summer evening in your city.

#FEAST AND FLOAT WAITLIST Is the date you want, sold out? Join the Waitlist! Simply copy and paste the link below into your browser.

• https://bit.ly/FEASTANDFLOATWAITLIST

#Group Discounts Available Planning to book 13 or more seats? A group discount may apply! Please contact us at ecofloats@riverwatch.ab.ca before booking to learn more.

#Can't attend your float?

• Donate your seats to our "Floats For Kids" seat donation program.
• RiverWatch is a registered charity founded in 1995. All donations are tax deductible.
• Email us at ecfloats@riverwatch.ab.ca to learn more.

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#“THE PERFECT DATE NIGHT DOESN’T EXI…”

Feed your soul and your palate.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening that blends the thrill of river adventure with the taste of Edmonton's vibrant culinary scene. RiverWatch Feast and Floats take you on a guided float down the majestic North Saskatchewan River stopping to indulge in a picnic-style meal from one of Edmonton's amazing local restaurants. The best part? The restaurant is top secret until 5 days before the float!

###RiverWatch is a registered charity, thank you for your support! Every EcoFloat you book helps fund science float experiences for schools across Alberta. In 2025, we celebrate 30 years of impact—reaching over 200,000 students with hands-on STEM and watershed education since 1995.

##Book Now! Last year, they ALL sold out weeks in advance!

What to Expect:

• A Scenic River/Culinary Adventure for everyone aged 6+: Drift beneath iconic bridges, past lush riverbanks, and into the heart of the city as the warm summer evening sets in.
• River Insights: Learn about the history, ecology, and conservation efforts that make this waterway one of Alberta’s greatest natural treasures.
• Riverside Feast: Enjoy a pop-up picnic meal featuring fresh, locally inspired flavors – perfect for a unique date night or a memorable outing with friends.
• Personal Touch: We cater to dietary restrictions, ensuring every guest has a personalized dining experience.
• Ordering Your Meal: On the Monday before your float, our booking team will reach out to reveal the week's featured restaurant partner. You'll have the chance to select your meal, confirm dietary preferences, and prepare for an evening that promises a perfect blend of nature, local cuisine, and conversation.

Join us for a Feast and Float – an adventure that feeds the soul and satisfies the palate. Book your spot and let the river be your guide to a truly unique Edmonton experience.

#UNPLUG. UNWIND. INDULGE. YOUR RIVER IS WAITING.

##Your Edmonton River Adventure Begins Here! Experience Edmonton Like Never Before – Book a RiverWatch Feast & Float Now!

This isn’t just a float – it’s an experience. Perfect for friends, families, couples, and corporate groups looking to reconnect with nature, history, and the spirit of Edmonton. Take a moment to breathe it all in—the energy of the river, the pulse of the city, and the sense of adventure that only a journey like this can bring.

Join Edmonton’s official river guides for a 3.5-hour interpretive float through the heart of the city. Discover hidden riverfront secrets, hear the stories of Edmonton’s past, and learn about the vital role the North Saskatchewan River plays in our lives.

From the towering bridges that define the skyline to the wildlife that calls the river valley home, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible natural wonder. Learn how this mighty waterway shapes the city, supports local ecosystems, and provides the drinking water that sustains us all.

###Don’t Miss Out! All our Feast & Float dates sold out well in advance last year. Book your 2025 date now and make this summer unforgettable. Get ready for an inspiring, educational, and unforgettable river adventure.

###The Journey Begins:

• After meeting your guides and fellow adventurers at Dawson Park (just east of downtown Edmonton), our shuttle takes you upriver to the starting point at Laurier Park in the west end. From there, it’s just you, our professional guides, the river, and some of the BEST views in Edmonton.

• Your float starts in the lush greenery of west Edmonton’s river valley. With an abundance of birds and other wildlife, just relax and breathe. It's so quiet, you'll forget your in the middle of city!

###Historic Bridges and City Views

• Experience the thrill of urban wilderness as you float past the lively Buena Vista dog park—keep an eye out for dogs splashing along the shoreline! Drift by the lush, green expanse of Hawrelak Park before making the big turn to Groat Bridge, where the distant hum of the city grows louder and the Edmonton skyline begins to reveal itself.

• As you continue downstream, the mighty High-Level Bridge looms into view—a towering, century-old landmark that has stood as a silent witness to the city's history. Feel the pulse of the city as you glide beneath its iconic steel frame, a breathtaking moment that captures the spirit of the river and the urban landscape it flows through.

Your First Stop is the Feast Stop! The Walterdale Bridge Picnic Experience

• Prepare to be amazed as we glide past the High Level Bridge to the soaring arches of the Walterdale Bridge, one of Edmonton's most iconic and photographed landmarks. This is your chance to stretch your legs, capture that perfect river selfie, and soak in the breathtaking view of the downtown skyline, framed by the sparkling waters of the North Saskatchewan River.
• But the real highlight awaits as we walk up to a lush stretch of green grass nearby – a perfect riverside setting where adventure meets indulgence. Here you’ll find picnic tables draped in classic red-and-white checkered cloths, creating the ideal backdrop for your riverside feast.
• As you settle in with new friends at our RiverWatch Long Table, the stage is set for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Our friendly crew will have your chef-curated meal ready for you. Expect dishes bursting with fresh, local flavors – a true celebration of Edmonton's vibrant food scene.
• Cold/warm picnic-style plates capture the essence of summer, paired perfectly with refreshing beverages that complement the evening. It’s a chance to savor incredible food, share stories, and soak in the beauty of the river as the sun sets over the city.
• And just when you think it can't get any better – did someone say dessert? Prepare for a sweet surprise that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Need a quick break? The Kinsmen Centre, complete with washrooms, is just a short stroll away – the perfect spot to refresh before the final leg of your adventure.
• Savor the moment – this is more than just a meal. It’s a shared experience, a lasting memory, and a true taste of Edmonton at its finest.

###Next Up – The Hidden Shorelines of Edmonton's Core

• As your adventure continues downstream, you’ll pass the historic Rossdale Water Treatment Plant and the storied neighborhoods of Rossdale and Riverdale, where the past whispers through the trees. This stretch of river holds some of Edmonton’s best-kept secrets—your guide will reveal hidden riverside coal seams, exposed by the relentless forces of nature, that can only be seen from the water.

• And don’t miss the chance to reach out and touch a piece of geological history—sample the smooth, powdery texture of Bentonite clay, a mineral formed from the weathering of volcanic ash millions of years ago. It’s a hands-on connection to the ancient forces that shaped this remarkable river valley.

Second Stop - Accidental Beach

• As you float on, we’ll make a stop at one of Edmonton’s most surprising riverfront treasures—a sandy, island-like oasis known as Accidental Beach. Discovered by locals in 2017 when shifting river currents during LRT bridge construction carved out this perfect stretch of sand, it quickly became a laid-back escape right in the heart of the city. It’s the ideal spot to dip your toes in the cool water, snap some selfies, and soak up the unique riverside vibe.

• These days, depending on the river level, you can only reach it by water, making it a true hidden adventure.

###Edmonton’s Core Comes into Spectacular View

• It’s picture time! As the entire skyline comes into view, get ready for breathtaking, postcard-worthy views of Edmonton’s vibrant downtown core. Drift past iconic landmarks like the majestic Hotel Macdonald, a symbol of the city’s early luxury and grandeur, standing proudly on the riverbank for over a century.

• To your left, you’ll see the gleaming glass of Canada Place, catching the sunlight as it rises above the river, while the distinctive, tiered architecture of the Edmonton Convention Centre nestles into the riverbank, blending seamlessly with the surrounding cliffs and trees.

• Float beneath the storied spans of the James MacDonald, Low Level, and Dawson Bridges, each with its own tales of the city’s growth and transformation, connecting communities and shaping the city’s history.

• And if we’re lucky, we might catch a wave from the passengers aboard the Edmonton Riverboat as it glides by at full steam, adding a touch of classic river adventure to our journey.

###Final Stretch – Dawson Park

• As we make our way toward Dawson Park, this final stretch is your chance to soak in the last glimpses of the river’s beauty, reflecting on the journey you’ve just taken. Soon, you’ll step back onto solid ground, your adventure coming full circle with fresh memories, stunning photos, and a deeper connection to the river that runs through the heart of Edmonton.

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#Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section. Please read this entire section thoroughly. It includes all details on timing, where to meet, what to bring, children on board, our cancellation policy, and more.

Once you complete your booking, all the following information will also be on your confirmation email.

###Quick Details – What We Provide

• Free Shuttle – Complimentary shuttle from the Dawson Park parking lot to the Laurier Park starting point.
• Guided and Interpretive Experience – 100% guided, interpretive river rafting with certified, professional raft guides.
• Safe 20ft Commercial Rafts – High-quality, commercial-grade rafts that seat up to 12 adults.
• All Safety Gear – Paddles, PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), and all required safety equipment. Note: By Alberta law, guests cannot use thier own lifejackets.
• A Memorable Adventure – A safe, fun, and unforgettable river experience!

###What to Bring

• Please Dress for the Weather – We do not provide rain gear, so please pack accordingly. Alberta summers can be unpredictable, so please bring your own rain jacket, warm or cool layers.
• Sun Protection and Hydration – Don’t forget sunscreen and plenty of water.
• Footwear That Can Get Wet – We do not provide rubber boots. Please wear shoes that can get wet, like closed-toed sandals or water shoes. Please avoid flip-flops, as they can be a tripping hazard at the beginning and end of the float.
• Do NOT Bring Your Own Lifejackets – In accordance with Alberta law, insurance and our safety protocols, guests MUST use the certified PFD's provided by RiverWatch. Personal lifejackets are not permitted.

###Quick Trip Details

• Age/Weight Requirements: To meet our insurance requirements and to ensure the safety of children during our rafting activities, the minimum age requirement is 6 years old and a minimum weight requirement of 60 lbs.
• Duration: Shuttle time is 20-30 mins, float time is up to 2.5 - 3 hours depending on river flow. -Two stops: Under the Walterdale Bridge and on Accidental Beach (when accessible).
• Parking: Very limited parking at Dawson Park – carpooling is highly recommended.
• Shuttle Pick-Up: Meet at Dawson Park. Shuttle transports you to Laurier Park Boat Launch for the start of your float.
• Route: Begins at Laurier Park, ends back at Dawson Park approximately 3-4 hours later.
• Weather: All floats are weather and river-level dependent.
• Group Size: max 12 adults per raft, guests may be grouped with others.

#What is the itinerary/timing of our float? (Please note that time on water can change due to river flow rates and other factors.)

##Morning Floats (All float specific times are approximate. Please check your confirmation email for details.)

• 9:00 am Meet Shuttle Bus and RiverWatch Host at Dawson Park for check in. (Bus leaves at 9:15 am sharp)
• 9:45 am Shuttle Arrival at Laurier Park (Start of Float)
• 10:15 am Guided Float Begins on North Saskatchewan River
• 11:45 am Rafts arrive at Walterdale Bridge for washroom/snack break (20 min. stop)
• 12:05 pm Rafts back on Water
• 12:35 pm Rafts arrive at Accidental Beach (20 min. stop)
• 1:30 pm Rafts back at Dawson Park

##Evening Floats (All float specific times are approximate. Please check your confirmation email for details.)

• 3:15 pm Meet Shuttle Bus and RiverWatch Host at Dawson Park for check in. (Bus leaves at 3:30 pm sharp)
• 4:00 pm Shuttle Arrival at Laurier Park (Start of Float)
• 4:30 pm Guided Float Begins on North Saskatchewan River
• 6:00 pm Rafts arrive at Walterdale Bridge for washroom/snack break (20 min. stop)
• 6:20 pm Rafts back on Water
• 6:50 pm Rafts arrive at Accidental Beach (20 min. stop)
• 7:45 pm Rafts back at Dawson Park

##Where do we meet the shuttle for Edmonton floats?

• Dawson Park: Dawson Park is located right on the river, just east of Downtown Edmonton, in the Riverdale Community. The actual address of the park is 10298-89 St. The streets leading to the park are well-marked. Remember to carpool, as parking is VERY limited!

##When do we meet the shuttle for morning floats?

• Please arrive between 9:00 AM and 9:10 AM for guest check-in at Dawson Park. The bus will leave at 9:15 AM sharp. Due to our schedule we are not able to wait for latecomers.
• NOTE: DUE TO TRAFFIC AND CONSTRUCTION ON DAWSON BRIDGE THIS SUMMER PLEASE LEAVE EARLY TO GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME.

##When do we meet the shuttle for evening floats?

• Please arrive between 3:15 PM and 3:20 PM, for guest check-in at Dawson Park. The bus will leave at 3:30 sharp. Due to our schedule we are not able to wait for latecomers.
• NOTE: DUE TO TRAFFIC AND CONSTRUCTION ON DAWSON BRIDGE THIS SUMMER PLEASE LEAVE EARLY TO GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME.

##DAWSON PARK PARKING ALERT – Please Car Pool! At times, parking may be very hard to find. Here are three suggestions to help avoid the disappointment of arriving and not finding parking:

• Our shuttle meeting points in local parks are very well used during the day and evening.
• Please carpool your group to the location. It’s better for the environment anyway 🙂
• Parking within designated parking zones (not on grass or near the big commercial garbage bins) to avoid ticketing by bylaw enforcement.
• RiverWatch is not responsible for any parking fines or tickets issued by bylaw enforcement.

##Where do I find my confirmation email after I purchase my seat?

• Once you’ve secured your seats for your chosen float date, a confirmation email will be promptly dispatched to your inbox.
• If you don’t see it immediately, check your junk or spam email folder within 10 minutes of booking.
• If you still can’t find it, there might be a slight typo in the email address you provided during booking.
• Simply email us at ecofloats@riverwatch.ab.ca, including the full name under which the reservation was made and the correct email address to which you’d like the confirmation email to be sent.

##Do You Float in the Rain?

• Yes! We float (and sometimes sing) in the rain!
• Trips may be modified or shortened in the event of light rain, cooler temperatures, or strong winds, but are usually not cancelled.
• Weather can be unpredictable, and forecasts aren’t always accurate. In the unlikely event of a cancellation due to lightning, high water, or unsafe conditions, you will be notified as soon as possible.
• Please see our cancellation policies below for full details.

##Do I need rafting experience?

• Good news, no experience is required!
• Within the city limits, the river is classified as Level 1 and are perfect for beginner rafters.
• Our professional and certified guides will also take you through a safety session and teach you how to paddle before embarking on your experience.

##How Much Physical Activity is Involved? Caution: This activity may present challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.

• Paddling and Teamwork – While your skilled river guide handles the navigation, passenger participation is essential.
• Be prepared for some moderate physical exertion, as your paddling power helps guide and propel the raft.
• Getting In and Out of the Raft – Boarding and disembarking the raft may involve navigating the raft itself, or slightly rocky or pebbly beach terrain, which requires some agility, bending and balance.
• Short Uphill Walk – At the end of the float, there is a short uphill walk of approximately 50 meters from the riverbank at Dawson Park.
• Raft Lifting – At the conclusion of the trip, all guests and staff work together to carry the raft up the hill at Dawson Park. - This teamwork may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations. Moderate lifting is involved. If you have mobility concerns, please let your guide know at the beginning of the float.

##Where are the washrooms located? There are 3 locations:

• For your convenience, there are various public washroom facilities along the journey:
• You’ll find the first public washroom at the meeting points where you board the shuttle.
• During the midpoint stop in the float, washrooms are also available nearby.
• As you wrap up your adventure, back where you parked, public washrooms will still be accessible.

##What about children on board?

• Age/Weight Requirements: To ensure the safety and well-being of children during our rafting activities, we have established a minimum age requirement of 6 years old and a minimum weight requirement of 60 lbs.
• These criteria are in accordance with our insurance requirements and safety standards.
• RiverWatch must provide our own personal floatation devices (PFDs) to each guest. Guest may NOT bring their own.
• Adult/Child Ratio: To maintain adequate paddle power and ensure a safe experience, we enforce a minimum adult-to-youth ratio of 1 adult for every 2 participants under 13.
• This ratio is necessary to maintain control and supervision during our rafting activities.
• We are bound by our licensing and insurance bodies to adhere to these requirements.

##Can I bring my pet?

• For the comfort of other guests, no pets are permitted on rafts except for service animals.
• Only dogs with proper harness identification will be recognized as service animals.
• Service animals must wear a PFD (life jacket) and be on a leash at all times except when performing work or tasks where such tethering would interfere with the dog’s ability to perform.

##Who Are the RiverWatch Guides? At the heart of RiverWatch are our Interpretive River Guides, skilled educators who bring the science of the river, its watershed, and the city’s history, culture, and geology to life. We’re fortunate to have a passionate team of guides who excel at connecting with students and guests, making every float a memorable experience.

For many, being a RiverWatch guide is the perfect summer job, especially for post-secondary students studying environmental sciences. Our team also includes nationally certified nature interpreters and professionals from a wide range of disciplines.

To become a RiverWatch guide, candidates must complete an intensive training program that includes:

• Rafting certifications and safety protocols
• Emergency response and first aid
• Equipment maintenance
• Watershed, Environmental Science and Local History Interpretation

The result is an experienced team of certified, professional river guides, ready to provide safe, engaging, and fully immersive rafting adventures.

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#ECOFLOAT CANCELLATION POLICIES: Please read carefully. The 4 sections below, address the following:

1.) WEATHER Cancellations 2.) GUEST cancellation, reschedule & refund policy. 3.) GUEST Cancellation window for regular bookings (5 or less seats). 4.) GUEST Cancellation window for group bookings (6 or more seats).

##1.) What is your WEATHER cancellation policy?

• YOUR SAFETY IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY: Our RiverWatch safety team continually monitors weather conditions for air quality (due to smoke), rain, thunderstorms, lightning, potential high winds, rising water levels and high flow rates on the river. While we rarely cancel floats just for rain (we love to sing in the rain!), we must consider other factors, including escalating river conditions, that may jeopardize our valued guests and staff’s safety and comfort.

• ADVANCE NOTICE OF POTENTIAL CANCELLATION: Should we determine that it MAY be necessary to cancel the float due to high water, changing weather, heavy rain, excessive wind, and/or lightning, we will provide you with advance notice through a “RiverWatch Float Update” 18-12 hours before your scheduled float, indicating that cancellation may occur.

• NOTICE OF CANCELLATION: RiverWatch reserves the right to cancel your float due to safety concerns within 24 hours or less before your designated float time. In the event of an actual cancellation, RiverWatch will notify you via email and text as early as possible before your scheduled float time.

• REBOOKINGS AND REFUND DUE TO WEATHER CANCELLATIONS: If your float is cancelled due to high water levels or adverse weather conditions, our rebooking process will commence within 48 hours after the cancelled float date. You will receive instructions from our booking team on how to promptly initiate the re-booking process. Our team will to secure another suitable date for your group this summer. If we cannot find a suitable alternative float date, RiverWatch will issue a credit for a future float. RiverWatch does not refund weather-related cancellations; only re-bookings or credits for future floats are offered.

##2.) What is the EcoFloat GUEST cancellation, reschedule & refund policy.

• At RiverWatch, we understand that unforeseen events may arise, necessitating changes or cancellations to your travel plans. However, we kindly ask for your understanding that when you book your trip with us, a charitable organization, we allocate resources, schedule staff for your raft(s), and make necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless experience tailored to the details and requirements of your booking.
• It is crucial to recognize that many expenses cannot be recovered once incurred. With each cancellation, RiverWatch incurs further costs to resell these tickets. Therefore, our cancellation windows for regular and group bookings are designed to provide RiverWatch with the necessary time to resell your cancelled seats and mitigate these costs. We prioritize transparency and aim to ensure all guests understand this policy. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

##3.) GUEST Cancellation & Rescheduling window for regular bookings (5 or less seats).

• Regular bookings (5 persons or less), are subject to our 7-day cancellation window.
• All cancellation and float reschedule requests for regular bookings require a minimum of seven (7) days’ notice before departure.
• Regular Bookings are 100% non-refundable WITHIN seven (7) days of departure.
• Our rescheduling policy allows you to reschedule your own booking provided the request is made at least seven (7) days BEFORE your scheduled float.
• To initiate the rescheduling process on your own, (please see “How to Change Your Float Date” below) or email us (ecofloats@riverwatch.ab.ca) your last name, booking ID, and the desired date and time you wish to float (subject to availability).
• Rescheduling your float WITHIN seven (7) days of the booking is not permitted.
• Cancellations WITHIN seven (7) days of your booking will not be refunded.
• No-shows on the float date will not be refunded.

##4.) GUEST Cancellation & Rescheduling window for group bookings (6 or more seats).

• Group bookings (6 persons or more) are subject to our 14-day cancellation window.
• All cancellation and float reschedule requests for group bookings require a minimum of 14 days (14) days’ notice BEFORE departure.
• Group bookings are 100% non-refundable WITHIN fourteen (14) days of departure.
• Our group booking rescheduling policy allows you to either reschedule your booking provided the request is made at least 14 days BEFORE your scheduled float.
• To initiate the rescheduling process on your own, (please see “How to Change Your Float Date” above) or email us (ecofloats@riverwatch.ab.ca) your last name, booking ID, and the desired date and time you wish to float (subject to availability).
• Rescheduling your group float WITHIN fourteen (14) days of the booking is not permitted.
• Cancellations WITHIN fourteen (14) days of your booking will not be refunded.
• No-shows on the float date will not be refunded.

##5 How To Change Your Float Date: You can easily change your float date if you are 7 or more days away from your scheduled trip for regular bookings, or 14 or more days away from your scheduled trip for group bookings. Please follow these steps:

• Open the confirmation email you received after making your original booking.
• Click the "Change Booking" link provided in the email.
• Select your new preferred date.

Important: Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 7 days of your float as per our cancellation/re-booking policy.

#Questions? Email ecofloats@riverwatch.ab.ca