The body of a missing kayaker has been found on the Bow River in Banff national Park, RCMP confirmed Tuesday.
The kayaker was on a solo trip on the river, according to RCMP in Lake Louise and Parks Canada officials.
RCMP and Parks Canada received a report about a missing kayaker at about 9 p.m. on Monday.
Those reports matched earlier sightings of an abandoned kayak being seen on the Bow River in the Taylor Lake area at about 7 p.m.
A body was found submerged in the river upstream by Parks Canada officials searching by helicopter. It was pulled from the river at about midnight, RCMP say.
The body was confirmed to be a 25-year-old female from Clarington, Ont.
The woman had rented her equipment from Baker’s Creek Chalets, and told the person she rented it from she’d be back at a certain time. When the young woman didn’t return, the person called Parks Canada, according to Parks Canada Visitor Safety Specialist and incident commander, Aaron Beardmore.
Parks Canada also said Tuesday that the river was high at the time the young woman was kayaking, and that there would possibly have been swift currents, trees in the water and sweepers — or low-hanging trees that impede on the river — that could have impacted her journey.
Beardmore said he didn’t know for sure the level of experience of the kayaker, but said all indications lead them to believe she had little experience.
Beardmore said anyone visiting the park should make educated decisions about where they go, and make sure they’re aware of the conditions and possible risks.
In addition, Parks Canada recommends those exploring head out with at least one other person — that way if they run into any trouble, there’s someone to help, or someone to call for help.
Beardmore said Parks Canada also recommends people have the proper training and equipment for their excursion before heading out.
RCMP say the woman’s identity will not be released.
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