B.C. is a magnet for paddlers in pursuit of pristine scenery, wild whitewater and island hopping. The abundance of waterways provides a variety of opportunities for solo and group canoeing, kayaking and rafting. You have your pick of tranquil paddles on urban lakes, explorations of coastal island and inlets, and wild whitewater rides. Whether you seek exhilaration or just want to go with the flow, there are dozens of places to go. There are also many experienced rafting operators, canoe and kayak rentals and seasoned guides, who can help you make the most of your time on the water.

Metro Vancouver
Mighty Fraser Country
Sea to Sky Country
Sunshine Coast

Metro Vancouver

Within minutes from the heart of downtown Vancouver, paddlers find themselves in wilderness settings that rival the deep backcountry of the region. Kayaks rentals and lessons are conveniently available in several areas around Metro Vancouver, including White Rock, Jericho Beach, Granville Island and English Bay.

Indian Arm is paradise for paddlers. Easily accessible from downtown Vancouver, Indian Arm is defined by its calm waters and spectacular scenery. Accessed from Deep Cove in North Vancouver, paddlers will enjoy waterfalls, islands, historical sites and varied wildlife.

Howe Sound is a glacial inlet surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks and is home to a colony of playful harbour seals and a bird sanctuary. The short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Bowen Island is well worth the pleasure of paddling around Bowen and nearby Pasley, Gambler and Keats Islands. Inexperienced kayakers will benefit from lessons with knowledgeable local guides, while skilled kayakers will enjoy watching the annual Round Bowen Kayak Race.

Intermediate to advanced whitewater kayakers will enjoy the Capilano River. Kayakers won't believe they're less than half an hour from downtown Vancouver as they hurtle down these canyon walled waters.

Mighty Fraser Country

Popular Mighty Fraser Country is home to some of the most varied waterways in the region. From small lakes to raging rivers, paddlers of all skill levels will find something that will challenge and excite.

Harrison, Allouette and Pitt Lake are all wonderful paddling destinations for both day trips and overnight excursions. Spectacular vistas, pictographs, waterfalls and abundant wildlife are waiting to be discovered. All are large lakes and paddlers should keep an eye on the weather as it is not unusual for visitors to find themselves beach bound by a shift in the weather. Harrison Lake is 60 km (37 mi) long lake with kayak rentals. Canoe rentals are available at both Allouette and Pitt Lakes.

Quiet lake canoeing in Manning Park is a great way to experience the ever-changing mountain and forest vistas. There are many lakes in and around Manning Park, but a favourite amongst visitors and locals alike is Lightning Lake. Lightning Lake provides a playground for not only kayaking and canoeing, but also fishing, swimming and picnicking. The day use area is also home to the Boathouse which offers canoe, kayak and rowboat rentals.

Sea to Sky Country

Sea to Sky Country's lakes and rivers offer fantastic opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks for the day or by the hour at many of Whistler's lakeside parks. To truly experience Sea to Sky Country like the locals do, participate in a guided tour with an adventure company that will take you into the secret, secluded areas frequented by in-the-know-locals. the numerous lakes north of Whistler in Pemberton and Lillooet provide further opportunities for backcountry paddling.

Whistler's River of Golden Dreams is a popular canoeing and kayaking route along a watershed, which runs from the north end of Alta Lake to the south end of Green Lake. The lakes and rivers surrounding Squamish allow you to connect with nature as you paddle and watch bald eagles feast on the salmon below. Or, simply sit back in your boat and marvel at the mountain peaks towering above.

Sunshine Coast

The variety to canoeing and kayaking opportunities on this sheltered, deep-water coastline seems unending. There are scenic routes with marine recreational campsites for paddlers of all skill levels, including canoe routes in Powell River and around Pender Harbour.

Sechelt Inlets Marine Provincial Park is speckled with rustic campgrounds and rest stops, some only a few kilometres apart, making it a superb kayaking or canoeing destination. It is ideal for both day and multi-day trips.

Desolation Sound is one of BC's largest marine parks with more than 60 km (37 mi) of shoreline and several small islands, sheltered bays and coves. It is regarded by many to be the most beautiful and interesting marine area in the province because of the intertidal marine life which can be clearly seen from a kayak during low tide. Marine life can include giant sunflower stars, purple stars, sea cucumbers, urchins, harbour seals, porpoises, White-sided dolphines and even the occasional Orca. Spectacular sunsets, fabulous views of the Coast Mountains, some of the warmest water temperatures in Canada, and safe, sheltered paddling also make this area a paddlers dream. Visitors will be amazed by the warm crystal waters, perfect for a dip or snorkel after a day of paddling.

The Powell Forest Canoe Route, near Powell River on the upper Sunshine Coast, encompasses 6 lakes, 69 km (42.8 mi) of canoeing and 10 km (6.2 mi) of portaging. The trip takes anywhere from 5-7 days to complete. While you can start at either end, the best place to begin is at Lois Lake to avoid steep grades during the portage.

Pender Harbour is known as the "Venice of the North" because of its intricate network of picturesque bays, inlets, coves, and lakes. From peaceful paddling in a tranquil lake to heart-pounding excitement in raging tidal rapids, paddlers will find their route in Pender Harbour.

Safety Tips: Never paddle alone and always wear a life jacket and helmet. Before leaving on your excursion, be sure to tell someone where you plan to go. It is always best to book a guided trip unless you know the are and have plenty of kayaking or canoeing experience. Always check the Marine Forecasdt (604-666-3655) prior to leaving.