Pipestone Creek in Alberta offers two distinct paddling experiences depending on which section you choose to explore. The creek is associated with the Coal Lake area near Wetaskiwin, where it enters Coal Lake at the south end, as well as a longer prairie route running south of Gwynne to its confluence with the Battle River.

For paddlers accessing the Coal Lake section, there is a boat launch with a dock, good parking, and pit toilets available. The creek is characterized by tight, meandering turns and requires ducking under shrub branches in places. Beaver activity is significant along this stretch, with at least one large beaver dam roughly a foot higher than the creek level, along with additional obstacles that can block or complicate passage. Paddlers should be prepared to portage or maneuver around these features.

The Gwynne to Battle River section covers approximately 17 kilometres and typically takes five to six hours, including time off the water. The put-in is accessed just south of Gwynne on Highway 822, where the slope on the southwest side of the bridge provides a relatively easy launch point. The confluence with the Battle River occurs around 8 kilometres into the paddle. The recommended take-out is at Township Road 462A on the southwest side of the Bittern Lake South bridge, though paddlers should cross to the east side of the bridge to pull out boats. Stinging nettles are abundant at the take-out area. The shuttle between put-in and take-out is less than 15 minutes by vehicle. This route is described as suitable for any level of paddler, with enough variables to maintain interest. The valley along this section features hills with small patches of native prairie and notable plant diversity. The Edmonton and Area Land Trust maintains the Pipestone Creek natural area, which includes 5 kilometres of foot-traffic-only trails adjacent to the creek. The route can be extended by starting further upstream at the Coal Lake South campground.