river canoe trips bc

17 of the Best Canoe Trips in British Columbia

Explore the BC’s dramatic mountains and misty forests from a different perspective – the classic Canadian canoe.

There’s a large variety of incredible multi-day canoe trips in British Columbia, ranging from relaxing paddles on pristine glacier fed lakes to adventurous circuit expeditions with portages and river sections.

With that in mind, here are 17 of the best BC canoe trips you need to need to put on your paddling ‘to do’ list!

Stretching from Vancouver Island to Northern BC, these routes and circuits range from 2 to 10 days in length so you can pick the best fit for your own adventure.

Some are more remote than others, but all offer glorious scenery accompanied by a serene paddling experience.

BC canoe trips: about this list

This is not a definitive list of canoe trips in British Columbia but includes some of the most popular, fun and varied canoe adventures to be had!

• While we love canoeing, we have not paddled all of these BC canoe trips (yet). I have noted those that remain on our ‘to do’ list so you will know which I write about with personal experience
• All but one of the following canoe trips have established lakeshore camping facilities (usually with outhouses, fire pits, occasionally picnic tables, tent pads and bear caches)
• This post features flat water adventures only (with very short river sections). If you’re looking for river paddling options, I’d suggest researching the Similkameen, Thompson, Nicola, Nanaimo River, Cowichan River, Slocan River and the Upper Fraser River
• The majority of these BC canoe routes are first come, first serve – only one uses a reservation system (Bowron Lake)
• Prefer kayaks? No problem – all of these routes are suitable for kayaks too though portaging may be more laborious

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Preparing for your paddling adventure

Help keep the wilderness wild and make sure you understand the principles of Leave No Trace before heading out on your BC canoe trip.

Also learn how to avoid a negative bear encounters , for a safer camping adventure.

Finally, ensure you have the 10 essentials to survive longer in the outdoors and know how to stay safe , in case things don’t go to plan.

Besides your 10 essentials, here are more items to bring:

• Proper canoe cart – For the BC canoe routes that have suitable portages for them, a canoe cart can be a big help. Make sure you buy or rent an expedition version, meaning a canoe specific portage cart (photo on this page ). The smaller ones with horizontal supports are built for kayaks and are a lot more difficult to maneuver
• Foldable chairs – Some of the campsites on the following BC canoe trips have picnic tables but most do not (and even then, picnic tables don’t have backrests!) We always bring our lightweight Helinox chairs on canoe trips for that extra comfort after a long day of paddling
• Camp stove – Yes, I know, cooking on the fire can feel like a non-negotiable part of a canoe trip but it’s important to have a backcountry stove for backup. Think fire bans, torrential rain and/or a severe lack of dry wood….
• Lightweight tarp – For rain or for shade, I wouldn’t ever consider going on a BC canoe trip without a tarp. My preference is to use an ultralight siltarp , which saves extra weight and bulk on portages

BC Canoe Circuits

The following are true canoe circuits, in that you finish exactly where you started after completing a circular route.

This occurrence is pretty rare in British Columbia due to topography, even with man-made portages. Nevertheless, there are three great examples.

Sayward Forest Canoe Circuit

Overview: 12 lakes, 12 portages with short river/creek/pond sections (47km total) Where: Vancouver Island, 30km from Campbell River Camping: 37 camping areas Fees/reservations: No fees, lots of free campgrounds Launch: Multiple options. Mohun Lake in Morton Lake Provincial Park is the most popular Rentals: Comox Valley Kayaks (75km from the circuit) Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Permitted Suggested length of trip: 4 days For more info: Sayward Forest Canoe Circuit Guide

A destination usually associated with ocean paddling, Vancouver Island is also host to some excellent freshwater paddling opportunities.

Indeed, one of the few true canoe circuits in all of BC can be found in an assuming forest just northwest of Campbell River.

The 47km long canoe circuit comprises twelve lakes, twelve portages and a couple of short river sections.

Each lake is wonderfully memorable, ranging from the expansive Lower Campbell Lake to the tiny lily-padded Whymper Lake. Amor Lake, with its unusual shape and delicate islands, is a definite highlight.

Situated in a working forest, the Sayward Canoe Circuit is not as pristine as Bowron Lakes but feels surprisingly remote.

The campgrounds offer a variety of experiences, from very rustic (no facilities) and basic (outhouses only) to well-established (Rec Sites with picnic tables) and even developed (private campgrounds).

Emar Lakes Canoe Circuit

Overview: 7 small lakes, 6 portages in Emar Lakes Provincial Park Where: North Thompson region, 115km north of Kamloops Camping: 2 vehicle accessible campgrounds plus wild camping Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Willowgrouse Lake, Janice Lake or Dytiscid Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs : Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 2 days

This compact canoe circuit is on my list for a trip in 2024. Seven pretty lakes form a complete loop, connected by six short portages.

The largest lake is Janice Lake (also known as Long Island Lake) which is about 2.5km across at its widest point. While it is possible to paddle the lakes in a day, a night or two helps to slow the experience down.

The opportunity to fish for rainbow trout is a major draw on this BC canoe trip, and indeed, for this area in general. The nearby road is sometimes nicknamed the ‘Fishing Highway’!

There are two vehicle-accessible Recreation Site campgrounds on two of the lakes and wild camping spots elsewhere on the circuit (no facilities). The Rec Sites also provide the best places to launch.

Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit

Overview: Parallelogram of 12 lakes, 8 portages plus a number of river sections (116km total) Where: Central Cariboo region, 110km east of Quesnel Camping: 54 designated camping areas, each with tent pads, outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $60 per person for full circuit, $30 for west side, plus reservation fee (reservations are highly recommended and launch in fall before the summer paddling season) Launch: Kibbee Lake, after 2.4km portage (full circuit) / Bowron Lake (west side) Rentals: Multiple options close to launch Other things to do : Fishing, hiking opportunities Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 6-10 days (3-5 for the west side) For more info: Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit paddling guide

Bowron Lakes is the most well-known (and popular) BC canoe route.

It’s easy to understand why – this epic 116km circuit in Bowron Lake Provincial Park is a perfect parallelogram of lakes, rivers and portages backdropped by wild, temperature rainforest and rugged mountains.

It is, however, no mean feat. Almost 11km of the total circuit distance takes the form of (often muddy) portages, with the longest being 2.4km

There is the option to explore just the west side of the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit , which still takes in a good handful of lakes and rivers as well as some outstanding views.

Bowron’s popularity means that the daily canoe launches are restricted.

Reservations are therefore all but essential during the summer months, with the booking system usually opening the October prior. For the 2024 season, reservations opened on 24th October 2023 at 7am PT.

Canoe Routes

For this section, I define a canoe route as one including at least two lakes, connected by a river or portage.

Some of these BC canoe routes feature many more than two lakes, with one even being considered a circuit of sorts.

One great aspect of choosing a canoe route over a circuit is being able to choose how much or little you want to paddle.

It is perfectly possible to change campsites every night or to explore the lake system from a base camp if you’re feeling lazy!

Main Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 1 large lake with connections to 5 others in Main Lake Provincial Park Where: Quadra Island, a short ferry from Campbell River on Vancouver Island Camping: 7 established marine campsites with outhouses Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Mine Lake or Village Bay Lake Dogs: Not recommended Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Suggested length of trip: 2-4 days

Positively idyllic in summer, the Main Lakes Canoe Route is an ideal destination for a relaxing BC canoe trip. Five smaller lakes branch out from the largest one, the eponymous Main Lake.

Setting up a base camp at a campsite on Main Lake is the most convenient and comfortable way to explore the park.

There are seven camp areas to choose from on this BC canoe route, with some of the sites enjoying gorgeous sandy beaches (perfect for those long hot days!)

Besides visiting the other lakes in the area, it’s also possible to hike 1.6km to Yeatman Bay. This offers the unusual opportunity to visit the ocean on a freshwater trip. And the views across to Maurelle Island are stunning!

Powell Forest Canoe Route

Overview: 8 lakes, 5 portages in a horseshoe shape (63km total) Where: Sunshine Coast, east of Powell River Camping: 17 designated camping areas Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Multiple options, Lois Lake is the most popular Rentals: Mitchell’s Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Permitted Suggested length of trip: 4-6 days For more info: Paddling guide

Just a stone’s throw from the Salish Sea, an exciting off-the-beaten path adventure awaits on the Powell Forest Canoe Route .

Well-maintained portages connect 8 unique lakes, which are surrounded by misty temperate rainforest and stunning coastal mountains.

Most of the lakes in the Powell Forest are smallmand easily crossable in a few hours or less. The exception is Powell Lake, which accounts for 30km of the quoted canoe route length listed above.

Deep, mysterious, temperamental and seemingly never-ending, paddling this fjord is an experience in itself.

The Powell Forest Canoe Route is so close to being a circuit that a lot of people do call it one.

The technicality is that while it is an incredible adventure on its own merits, you do not start and finish at the same spot unless you double back or utilise a vehicle.

There are various ways to extend, shorten or otherwise adapt the route of this BC canoe trip to your own needs.

Lightning Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: Three lake chain in E.C. Manning Provincial Park Where: Between Hope and Princeton, just off Highway 3 Camping: Backcountry campsite on Strike Lake, with outhouses and bear cache Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Lightning Lake day-use area Rentals: Manning Park Resort Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs: Allowed on leash Suggested length of trip: 2 days

This trio of imaginatively named lakes in Manning Park forms a short yet scenic BC canoe route, bordered by forested mountains and a lakeshore hiking trail.

Lightning Lake is the first lake on the chain, also the largest and most interesting to paddle. The portage to Flash Lake is 500m and the next to Strike Lake 1.5km.

There is a backcountry campsite just a short walk (600m) away from Strike Lake. Located in a grove of spruce trees, it’s primarily used by hikers.

From Strike Lake, it is possible to hike to Thunder Lake (6km return), the fourth and final lake of the chain.

In theory, you could also portage but the trail is narrow, slippery and littered with avalanche debris. Access to the actual lakeshore is also potentially tricky so I wouldn’t recommend it.

I was a little hesitant to include the Lightning Lakes Canoe Route on this list since it is relatively short and the portages were quite overgrown when we last visited.

The low water levels of Strike Lake can also prove to be a challenge in late summer. But it was the fun hike/canoe trip combination, with easy highway access that won me over!

Moose Valley Canoe Route

Overview: 12 small lakes in wetland area in Moose Valley Provincial Park Where: South Cariboo, 30km west of 100 Mile House Camping: 1 vehicle accessible campground, 2 rustic campsites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Marks Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Policy not specified Suggested length of trip: 2-3 days For more info: BC Parks guide

The Moose Valley Canoe Route winds through a maze of small, shallow lakes in a delicate wetland area. The pretty lakes are studded with intricate, reed-fringed islands. Moose are a fairly common sighting here.

Although it’s possible to paddle this canoe route in a day, many choose to stay for a few nights to soak in the tranquillity of the area. Facilities are limited but there are a couple of established marine sites on Long and Canoe Lakes.

Very close to Moose Valley (by BC standards anyway), is also the Flat Lake Canoe Route. There’s not much information about it available online, which is why I mention it within Moose Valley’s entry.

According to BC Parks, Flat Lake Provincial Park features several small lakes interconnected with short portages. It is suggested to be ideal for canoe trips of up to three days. We plan to one day paddle both Moose Valley and Flat Lake on the same road trip.

Clearwater/Azure Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 2 lakes connected by a portage in Wells Gray Provincial Park Where: 65km north of Clearwater and Highway 5 Camping: 12 camping areas with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person Launch: Southern end of Clearwater Lake Rentals: Clearwater Lake Tours Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing, waterfalls Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 5-8 days for both lakes (3-4 for Clearwater only)

Positioned at a right angle to each other, Clearwater Lake and Azure Lake are connected by a short portage.

With both of these glacial-fed lakes being an impressive 22km long, it is possible to paddle for up to a week and still have the chance to see something new.

We’ve had this BC canoe trip on our list for years but we keep having to reschedule (most recently in 2023) due to wildfires. It is on our 2024 calendar.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is best known for its collection of spectacular waterfalls. This canoe route has one of its own to complement the others, the beautiful Rainbow Falls at the end of Azure Lake.

There are a total of twelve camping areas between both lakes, with most being on Clearwater Lake. Being further away from the launch point, Azure Lake is usually less busy. There is, however, a water taxi service that can pick up and drop off paddlers anywhere along the route.

Turner Lake Canoe Route

Overview: 7 lakes, 7 portage chain in Tweedsmuir South Provincial Park Where: West Chilcotin region, 70km east of Bella Coola Camping: 7 established marine campsites with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Turner Lake (fly-in or 16km hike) Rentals: Tweedsmuir Air Other things to do : Hiking opportunities (with alpine options), fishing, waterfall Dogs : Not recommended More info: BC Parks Guide Suggested length of trip: 4-5 days

One of the most remote BC canoe trips listed here, the Turner Lakes Canoe Route is a real wilderness adventure.

Those who make the effort to hike or fly in will find a series of seven high-elevation lakes, most of which have views of dramatic snow-capped mountains. Another highlight is the chance to see Hunlen Falls, Canada’s third-highest waterfall (401m).

While the portages are on the shorter side (less than 600m), they are not to be underestimated. The changeable weather can prove a challenge too.

Rather than attempt to hike or fly in their boat, most canoeists choose to arrange a canoe rental at Turner Lake. Two rustic cabins can also be booked.

The Turner Lake Canoe Route is definitely high on my bucket list of BC canoe trips. I plan to combine it with an alpine hiking adventure in the Ptarmigan Lakes area as this couple did , hopefully in 2025.

Nazko Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 7 lake, 6 portage chain with short creek/river sections in Nazko Lake Provincial Park Where: Chilcotin region, 150km northwest of Williams Lake Camping: 4 established campsites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Deerpelt Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 1-3 days For more info: BC Parks Guide

The Nazko Lakes Canoe Route takes in seven small but pretty lakes in the Chilcotin region.

One of the lakes is so tiny that it does not have a name. The portages are apparently short and easy, all being less than 800m with little elevation gain.

The paddling distance adds up to 20km, with Tanilkul Lake being the longest lake at 5km. It is also cited as the most beautiful lake on the chain.

Moose are a fairly common sight here, with the endangered American White Pelican also in the area (the reason I most want to check it out!)

There are no camping facilities on this BC canoe route besides the vehicle-accessible campground on the first lake (Deerpelt). There are, however, four established spots for camping, spaced out over four lakes.

Please note that this park was damaged in wildfires in 2017 and one of the camping areas is still closed at the time of writing (Tanikul South Campsite). Check for updates on the BC Parks website.

Nanika-Kidprice Canoe Route

Overview: 4 lake, 3 portage chain, most of which is in Nenikëkh / Nanika-Kidprice Provincial Park Where: Northern Interior, 75km southwest of Houston Camping: 4 established campsites with outhouses and bear cache plus 4 ‘rustic’ sites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Lamprey Lake Other things to do : Fishing, waterfall, hiking opportunities (unmaintained routes) Dogs: Allowed on leash Suggested length of trip: 3-5 days

This lesser-visited canoe route lies in a valley between two mountain ranges in Northern British Columbia.

Four high-elevation lakes line up to offer 30km of paddling, accessed with the assistance of three portages. The longest is 2.2km but is mostly level.

In addition to excellent views of snow-capped mountain peaks, the Nanika-Kidprice Canoe Route offers a number of beautiful beaches to camp and relax on. Powerful Nanika Falls (18m) can be found on the final lake of the chain, Kidprice Lake.

From reading trip reports, the fishing on the route sounds promising (particularly for rainbow trout). This combined with the scenery and relative obscurity of the route, makes the Nanika-Kidprice a very appealing BC canoe trip.

Nation Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 4 lakes, 3 rivers chain, most of which is located in Nation Lakes Provincial Park Where: North Central BC, northwest of Fort St James Camping: 8 provincial park campsites plus Recreation Sites and wild camping Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Four different access points, Tsayta Lake is popular for canoe route use Other things to do : Fishing Dogs : Permitted Suggested length of trip: 7-10 days

With an epic total distance of 120km, the Nation Lakes Canoe Route is perfect for anyone wanting a long paddling adventure in pristine wilderness.

Due to this canoe route’s remote location in Northern BC, you’re also unlikely to see anyone else outside of hunting season.

Besides the isolation, wide open views are one of the major attractions, alongside the high paddling-to-portage ratio.

Unusually, the connections between the lakes are river sections so there are no formal portages. It may, however, be necessary to portage due to low water or logjams.

BC Parks doesn’t detail too much about this canoe route, so I’d suggest having a read of trip reports – examples here and here .

A canoe rental and shuttle service is available via Chuchi Lake Fishing Lodge , the latter of which I will likely use myself when we paddle this route.

Large lakes

British Columbia is characterised by its immense mountain ranges, rugged coastline and narrow valleys. The latter are often filled with long, narrow lakes.

Some are man-made (reservoirs) while others are fed by glaciers. Such large lakes lend themselves well to canoe tripping, though can be susceptible to high wind and waves.

In this section, I highlight five large valley lakes that offer canoe-tripping opportunities (each tried and tested by us). There are, however, plenty more to discover.

Buttle Lake

Overview: 23km long reservoir lake set in a picturesque valley Where: Vancouver Island, 65km southwest of Campbell River Camping: 4 established marine campsites with outhouses Fees/reservations: $10/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Multiple options, including official boat launches Rentals: Strathcona Park Lodge Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing, waterfall Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 2-4 days

Buttle Lake is one of the most defining features of Strathcona Provincial Park .

Mountains rise steeply from the edge of this narrow turquoise lake, creating impressive valley views. A large waterfall cascades directly into the lake at the southern end.

There are four marine campsites on the lake, with Rainbow Island being a favourite for families due to its convenient location. At Phillips Creek campsite, a 6.6km trail leads up into the subalpine Marble Meadows.

Please be aware that Buttle Lake can be exceptionally windy, especially on hot days, and some of the shoreline can be steep.

If desired, you can also paddle north into Upper Campbell Lake for a longer canoe trip – there is another provincial marine campsite here as well as some Recreation Sites and wild camping options.

Okanagan Lake

Overview: 135km long lake Where: Okanagan Valley, adjacent Highway 97 Camping: 7 established marine campsites with picnic tables and outhouses Fees/reservations: $13/per night/per camping party, first come first serve Launch: Numerous options – Indian Rock near Naramata is our go-to Rentals: Multiple local options Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip : 3-4 days

Stretching an impressive 135km from top to bottom, Okanagan Lake is one of the most impressive bodies of water in BC’s southern interior.

Okanagan Lake also very windy at times and very popular with boats in the summer so consider planning a trip for the shoulder seasons.

While there are several large communities and a highway located on the shores of the lake, a few areas have escaped development.

One of these is Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park , which sits on the lake’s eastern shore between Kelowna and Penticton.

Most of the shoreline of the park is steep, rising into remarkably rugged mountains (watch for bighorn sheep!) The few flatter sections have been developed into marine campsites, which can be used as overnight stopovers or for base camp use.

Whatever you do, make sure to take a trip to Rattlesnake Island , a scenic spot that was once the centre of an international incident involving hostages and a miniature golf course (the remains of which are still there).

Murtle Lake

Overview: Large lake in shape of a backwards L, part of Wells Gray Provincial Park Where: Between Clearwater and Valemount, close to Highway 5 Camping: 19 designated camping areas with 69 campsites, each with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Murtle Lagoon, after 2.5km portage Rentals: Murtle Canoes Other things to do : Hiking opportunities (with alpine options), fishing Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 4-7 days For more info: Complete paddling guide

Murtle Lake has the distinction of being North America’s largest canoe-only lake.

Such peace and freedom offer opportunities for not just a peaceful BC canoe trip, but an adventurous one if desired.

The lake itself is divided in two by 15km West Arm (more campsites, busier) and a 20km North Arm (more dramatic views, quieter). The width varies but is never more than 3km.

Wide sandy beaches dot the shores, with intricate islands providing the perfect place to stop for a snack break. 2000m peaks provide amazing mirror lake reflections on calm days.

Two lakeside trailheads offer access into the alpine itself, for a chance to see Murtle Lake from above too.

Located at an elevation of 1067m and fed by a glacial river, Murtle Lake is noticeably cooler than most of the other BC canoe routes listed here. So be sure to bring extra warm layers (even in the height of summer) as well as your fishing rod.

Slocan Lake

Overview: 39km long lake, the majority of which is part of Valhalla Provincial Park Where: West Kootenay region, between Nelson and Revelstoke Camping: 8 provincial marine campgrounds with outhouses, picnic tables and bear caches plus two Recreation Sites ( Bannock Point , Wragge Beach ) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: 7+ options, we prefer Slocan village Rentals: Smiling Otter Other things to do: Hiking opportunities, fishing, historical artefacts Dogs : Allowed on leash in marine campgrounds (and select trails) Suggested length of trip : 3-5 days For more info: Complete Valhalla Provincial Park guide

Slocan Lake is our go-to destination for lazy summer canoe trips, when we much prefer the idea of swimming to portaging! This is the perfect place to sunbathe, fish, float and relax.

The western shoreline of this long lake features a string of dreamy beach campgrounds looking out onto the turquoise-coloured water and mountains beyond. Our favourite campsites are Ben Browns and Cory’s Ranch.

This is the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, fish, float and relax. Highway 6 borders the lake on the other side but somehow seems a world away. Our favourite campsites are Ben Browns and Cory’s Ranch.

If you prefer a more adventurous BC canoe trip, Slocan still delivers in buckets. There are five hiking trailheads along the lake, offering the chance to explore beautiful waterfalls, old mining cabins and even venture into the alpine.

Christina Lake

Overview: 18km long lake adjacent to Gladstone Provincial Park Where: West Kootenay region, easy access from Highway 3 Camping: 7 established marine campsites with picnic tables and outhouses Fees/reservations: $13/per night/per camping party, first come first serve Launch: Texas Creek Campground Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 2-3 days

As well as being one of the warmest lakes in British Columbia, Christina Lake is also known for its amazingly clear water.

The shore is lined by several fine sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing in summer. It’s all backdropped by the Monashee Mountains.

Like Okanagan Lake, this BC canoe trip is best taken outside of summer if peace is a priority. The southern shores of Christina Lake are fringed with vacation homes – expect to see many power boats.

The northern half of the lake is surrounded by Gladstone Provincial Park, but even then, some of the shoreline remains private and is dotted with more houses.

While Christina Lake isn’t our top pick for a wilderness trip, it’s still worth consideration for a short paddle adventure. We enjoyed tranquil mornings and evenings as well as the gorgeous views and productive fishing.

For more paddling inspiration:

9 Extraordinary Kayak and Canoe Trips You Must Try in Canada

7 Canadian Canoe Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Canoeing Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake: Complete Guide and Comparison

Paddling Desolation Sound By Canoe, British Columbia

Wallace Island: An Idyllic Kayaking Destination in British Columbia

A Week in the Wilderness of Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia

Kayaking the 100 Wild Islands, Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Canada. Jean Robert (JR) is up for anything, but you’re most likely to find him either snowboarding, fishing or building something. Gemma and JR are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada.

Monday 26th of July 2021

Thanks, this site is great, we were supposed to canoe on Kootney Lake with our crew this summer but the wildfires are terrible there right now and we are are last minute canoe route "shopping" to find a new trip. You mentioned the Nation Lakes above, we did that last year, if you'd like a sneak peak of some of the route, log jams, fishing etc. Check out the video we made https://youtu.be/aXF4IBN5FKE Happy Adventures and thanks for the info!

Kootenay River

Canoeing Skill Level: 2 of 4

The Kootenay River is an exciting whitewater run through the beautiful Canadian Rockies of southeast British Columbia. We’ll launch high in Kootenay National Park and paddle three “reaches” (sections) of the river. Park Reach offers an excellent introduction, with lots of swifts and easy rapids. Then, 40 km downstream we will enter the more-demanding Canyon Reach. The rapids are more challenging here and cut through 50 km of steep-walled canyons. Lastly, we’ll run the more-relaxing White River Reach and splash through amazing scenery in the westernmost ranges of the Rockies to our take-out point at Canal Flats.

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Click here to access a detailed trip package with an itinerary and a full list of inclusions and exclusions. To access a recommended packing list, click here.

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• 3 nights camping on the Kootenay River
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August 16, 2023

Paddling Adventures in the Kootenays

From canoeing to whitewater kayaking to stand-up paddle boarding , water has a natural pull on us humans — probably owing to it having that whole crucial-to-human-survival quality going for it.

But water also holds mystery. Since it’s not a terrain feature humans can easily explore and being that humans are curious by nature, we want to get closer and understand it. But unless you’re a long-distance swimmer or enjoy getting sucked into rapids, to get into the midst of this element and navigate it for any extended period of time, you need a vessel.

Luckily, our ancestors paved the way for us. We’ve turned their utilitarian need for paddling into a modern-day recreational passion. Here in the Kootenays, we’ve got plenty of places to satisfy – or spark – that passion.

Chosen for ease of access from the paved road to put in, the following are just a handful of the region’s many lakes and rivers that whitewater and flatwater fanatics can explore. If you need more after exploring these, level up your paddling game by checking out the lakes and rivers accessible via our backroads.

Columbia River

The Columbia might be one of North America’s biggest rivers, but in the East Kootenay, it’s a family-friendly paddle trip. This gentle giant can be paddled by nearly any age and ability and enjoyed as a quick outing or a multi-day trip.

Running 180-kms between the Purcells and the Rocky Mountains, it’s also part of North America’s longest wetland ecosystems, giving younger and older family members a chance to experience its biodiversity first-hand.

Flowing through Sparwood and Fernie , the Elk River gets its start in the Canadian Rockies before flowing joining the Kootenay River in Koocanusa Lake. This river courses through classic Kootenay scenery: thick forests, icy blue water and our infamous Kootenay Rockies’ peaks. With several waterfalls you can drop, the Elk runs up to Class V.

Illecillewaet River

This is one of two Revelstoke local favourites, the other being Jordan River. The cool aspect of the Illecillewaet — and why it was chosen for this particular round up of rivers — is that it’s not just that it’s easy to access from the Trans-Canada Highway, nor that it runs through a spectacular box canyon, but running this final stretch of this river will take you straight into Revelstoke. During its highest flows, the Illecillewaet runs in sections at a Class V, but paddlers can find grades as low as Class II on different sections and lower flow days.

Kicking Horse River

If you’re big into whitewater, you already have the Kicking Horse River on your map. Rapids on this river reach up to Class V with several sections offering steady Class III runs. With headwaters in Yoho National Park, this rowdy river runs through three sections of tight canyons before mellowing out and joining with the Columbia River. And like the Illecillewaet, above, paddle the last section of the Kicking Horse and end up right in Golden in time for dinner.

Kootenay River

Like the Columbia, you can paddle this in both East and West Kootenay sections. The difference is flow: BC sections of this river tend to have more rapids — averaging Class II and III depending on the section and time of year — than the Columbia, thanks to the Kootenay’s steeper gradient.

In East Kootenay, try a multi-day trip starting near the river’s headwaters in Kootenay National Park , heading south through forested canyons, until you reach the Rocky Mountain Trench at Canal Flats.

In West Kootenay, paddle the calmer side of the Kootenay within the Kootenay-Columbia Discovery Centre ; the slower pace will give you a chance to check out the nearly 400 species of animals this area is home to.

Lardeau River

If you want a sure bet of spotting wildlife, this is your river. Sightings of grizzlies feasting on spawning Kokanee and bald eagles might even be more common than seeing another human on this stretch of river about a half hour from Kaslo .

It’s also the … “only river in the world in which the Gerrard trout spawn, the world’s largest subspecies of rainbow trout” . Paddlers should be ready for at least Class II runs, depending on water levels.

Slocan River

With or without rapids? It’s your choice, depending on the section of river you choose — or get both by stringing sections together into a longer trip. Ranging from gently flowing to Class III in higher run-off periods, there’s everything from technical maneuvering to easy floats through this part of the Kootenays. The scenery may be the biggest payoff: utopian-like family farms line the base of the rugged Selkirk Mountains, including Valhalla Provincial Park’s peaks.

Arrow Lakes (Upper and Lower)

Technically still the Columbia River, both Upper and Lower Arrow Lake are places where the river widens enough to become lake-like in appearance. History says the name for these two bodies of water came from the many arrows found here by Europeans in the mid-1800s, left by the Sinixt First Nation who used the waterway as a transportation route. Paddlers who also feel like doing some exploring on land will be rewarded by a at-access only hidden gem: Renata Natural Arch, found across from Syringa Provincial Park   (near Castlegar ).

Columbia Lake

If you want a lake that’s a warmer on the skin, this is the place to paddle. Columbia Lake is the largest warm-water lake in East Kootenay. But there’s another reason to paddle here: bragging rights. Since the lake is also at the head of the Columbia River, those who paddle can claim they skimmed the headwaters of the fourth largest river in North America.

Kootenay Lake

With the Purcell Mountains on one side and the Selkirks on the other, both ranges dropping straight into its waters, Kootenay Lake provides 104-kilometres of fjord-like views. Between long stretches of wilderness, small towns and villages dot its shoreline. For paddlers who want a multi-day trip, there are several boat-accessed provincial parks along the lake that allow camping and plenty of trailheads around the circumference of the lake to stretch your legs on.

Lake Koocanusa

If you’re alert, you’ll catch how the name for this lake came about. Part of the Kootenay River system and spanning the Canada and United States border — did you catch it? — this lake moves from mountain views in the north to grasslands in the south. Nearly 80% of the 145-kilometre lake is on public land so multi-day paddlers will find plenty of spots to take out and camp.

Lake Revelstoke

Lake Revelstoke might just be one of Revelstoke’s best kept secrets. Above the impressive Revelstoke Dame on Highway 23 north, the lake is a favourite hang out in the summer heat. Surrounded by stunning 360 degree mountain views, it is an ideal spot for watersports, camping and other outdoor activities.

Nancy Greene Lake

If you’re traveling near Rossland and want a pretty spectacular roadside picnic, take it on the water. Nancy Greene Provincial Park is small, but its picture-perfect little lake with the southern tail of the Monashee Mountain scenery is worth pulling over for.

Slocan Lake

A few days spent touring the western shoreline will immerse paddlers in wilderness – Valhalla Provincial Park dominates the western side of Slocan Lake. Sand beach alcoves, a 7.5-kilometre shoreline hiking trail, and even trails into the interior of the park can be incorporated into a multi-day trip. From the east, paddlers will get better views of the park’s interior peaks as they pop up behind passes in the mountain range.

Lake Windermere

Like Upper and Lower Arrow Lakes,  Windermere Lake is actually a widening of the Columbia River. Its shallow waters, the average depth is only 4.5-metres deep, are a favourite with swimmers and boaters alike. The western side, bordered by the Purcell Mountains, is largely uninhabited while the east, with its views of the Rocky Mountains, provides lots of opportunities to climb ashore and check out the local culture.

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Lower Stikine River Canoeing Expedition

“The Canoeable Tatshenshini”

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Lower Stikine River Canoeing Expedition – “The Canoeable Tatshenshini”

Trip Length 15 day(s)

Craft Canoe

Skill Level Beginner

Rendezvous Point High Country Inn, Whitehorse, Yukon

Pricing $8,400 (CAD) 5% GST

Inquire about this trip >

Many have called the Stikine River the “gateway to the vast interior of northwest Canada,” making a canoeing adventure on this wilderness highway unforgettable. Coursing through the Coast Range, the Stikine River or “Great River,” as it’s known by the local Tlingit, boasts vast glaciated mountains, icebergs, hot springs and First Nations fish camps.

Trip Highlights

• Canoe one of the last great wilderness rivers of B.C. 
• Excellent wildlife viewing in a lush coastal environment

Trip Details

We canoe in two-person canoes along this coastal range river from Telegraph Creek, British Columbia to Wrangell, Alaska over 10 river days.  We’ll be travelling downriver 267 kilometres (165 miles) with an elevation drop of 200 metres (600 feet).

Wildlife viewing is excellent – grizzlies, black bears and Bald Eagles are attracted to the lush coastal environment. John Muir, travelling up the Stikine from its mouth in 1879, called the lower Stikine “a Yosemite 100 miles long.”

Skill Prerequisites:  Novice moving water experience is recommended. If unsure of your ability, please call with any questions: 1-800-297-6927 or (867)-668-3180.

Learn more about canoe trip skill prerequisites >

Trip Dates To Be Announced.

Additional dates may be available, please inquire.

The following is a tentative agenda and has been designed with much thought to capitalize on the most scenic and exciting parts of the river, while making time on other sections. Your guides will adjust the schedule to make the best use of river and weather conditions.

Meals included:
Breakfast = B | Lunch = L | Dinner = D

Day 0 WHITEHORSE, YUKON

Your journey north will be a refreshing departure from everyday life. You’ll fly over the largest expanse of wilderness in the world, pass through quieter airports, meet friendlier service personnel, and generally begin to immerse yourself in the wilderness experience that is about to unfold.

The scheduled flights arrive in Whitehorse throughout the day. Aim to arrive by 6 p.m. Please make your way to your hotel and plan to rendezvous with your guides at the High Country Inn at 8 p.m. for an orientation meeting (enquire at the desk for meeting room). Hotel costs and meals while in Whitehorse are not included in the trip fee. There will be a chance for last minute questions concerning clothing, gear, packing and other details.

Whitehorse is a great place to spend a few extra days. We’ll send you a visitor’s guide. The historic sites are interesting and there are day hikes, gold panning float trips through Miles Canyon and 4X4 outings in the region.

Day 1 (L/D) GOLDRUSH HISTORY

We’ll meet 8 a.m. in the hotel lobby after breakfast (not covered). After driving to the airport we will fly to the “picture perfect” gold rush town of Telegraph Creek on the Stikine River downstream of the Grand Canyon of the Stikine. Once in the tiny community of Telegraph Creek, we’ll load the canoes and prepare to travel the short distance to our first camp in the vicinity of Tsikhini River. Once on the Stikine you’ll immediately feel the speed and power of this grand river.

Day 2 (B/L/D) OLD GROWTH FOREST

Floating past First Nations fish camps, we’ll pass the tiny community of Glenora. Now nearly a ghost town, it once held 10,000 occupants and was the head of steamship navigation. From here the river begins its cut through the highly glaciated Coast Range. Camp will be in the vicinity of Jackson’s Flats.

Day 3 (B/L/D) LITTLE CANYON

The swift-flowing but smooth river will whisk you further into the land of the Stikine. Increasingly larger mountains appear on the horizon and we watch for grizzlies, moose and Mountain goats. Camp will be in the vicinity of Little Canyon.

Day 4 (B/L/D) FLOOD RIVER

Making our way into the dramatic region of the Flood River Valley, many glaciers begin to dominate the horizon. Camped along the river, we’ll read stories of the rich First Nations and gold rush history of the region.

Day 5 (B/L/D) GLACIERS

The river channel broadens and braids. New panoramas await around each bend. We’ll camp in the region on Mud Glacier – Don’t worry! It’s far more beautiful than the name implies.

Day 6 & 7 (B/L/D) GREAT GLACIER LAKE

Flood and Mud Glaciers are but two of the ice caps that dominate the valleys feeding the river in this stretch. Seals may be seen in the main channel at this point as they follow the spawning salmon. The Great Glacier once breached the river and was the sight of a clash between Tahltan and Tlingit warriors. We’ll camp here and a hike from the river will take us to an ice berg-dotted lake at the foot of the glacier where it now resides. If possible, we’ll use our boats to paddle among the ice flows. This portion of the Stikine passes into the Coastal Western Hemlock and Mountain Hemlock biogeoclimatic zones. Even at this latitude there is a rich rain forest ecosystem supporting eagles and ravens, steelhead and salmon, bears, foxes, wolves, Mountain goats and numerous other mammals. Its wetland habitats are particularly important to water fowl and moose. Sitka spruce, cottonwoods, yellow cedar, white fir and abundant wildflowers are present. Nearly a million migrating birds of the Pacific Flyway use the delta and wetlands.

Day 8 (B/L/D) FRESH SALMON

Back on the river your guides will organize fresh salmon at a local fish camp. Camp will be in the vicinity of Goat Creek Islands.

Day 9 (B/L/D) CHIEF SHAKES HOTSPRINGS

After a paddle down a hidden back channel you’ll be rewarded by a soak in the luxurious hot water of Chief Shakes Hot Springs. Splendid scenery will top off a memorable day. If river conditions allow, we’ll make our way into Shakes Lake for a closer interaction with spectacular glaciers.

Day 10 (B/L/D) ALASKA

Making our way through the delta we’ll enter the rich coastal environment of Frederick Sound. The scenery continues to please. Skirting the shoreline, we’ll paddle to the colorful fishing community of Wrangell, Alaska. Camp will be in this coastal community and you’ll have time to explore the town.

Day 11 (B/L) INSIDE PASSAGE

We’ll leave Wrangell in the afternoon via the Inside Passage Ferry. This provides a classic view of the famed Alaska Inside Passage. Steaming through the villages of Petersburg, Sitka and the state capital of Juneau, we’ll have berths. Showers are available and you’ll have access to all the ship’s facilities. Be sure to have proof of your citizenship with you for U.S. and Canadian customs.

Day 12 SKAGWAY & THE WHITE PASS

We’ll arrive in the historic gold rush town of Skagway, Alaska early afternoon and have time to wander the colourful streets, enjoy the shops and meet for dinner at one of the local restaurants. We will then begin the 2-hour journey back to Whitehorse by van. The dramatic peaks of White Pass will keep you well engaged.

Day 13 (& 14) WHITEHORSE & HOMEWARD BOUND

You can book your flight to leave Whitehorse anytime, otherwise you may want to relax for one more evening and fly out the next day. After goodbyes and a last look around town, we will head for home. with a cargo of fond and spectacular memories. 

* At this time, the Alaska State Ferry schedule has not been finalized. Please contact us before finalizing flight arrangements to ensure the schedules match.*

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Other trips that might interest you

Upper Stikine River Canoeing: Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park

The Stikine River is an exciting adventure for paddlers comfortable with Class II and III whitewater.

Snake River – Whitewater, Wildlife & Hiking

Flowing through the spectacular Bonnet Plume Range of the northern Yukon, the Snake River is renowned for its remote beauty, excellent hiking and whitewater paddling.

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Bowron Canoe Trips

To build on your skills in the small canoe, visit our friends at ridge wilderness adventures in the lower mainland, pre trip meeting (day before trip starts).

We will meet as a group at 5:30 PM at the Wells Hotel in Wells, BC. We recommend staying on site the night before your trip! The hotel has great accommodations + includes a light continental breakfast!

Our Bowron Lakes guided canoe trips begin by picking up our canoes at Bear River Mercantile, a restaurant and general store with cabins, run by Dick & Sandy Phillips. Then on to the Park Registration Centre where canoeists register. There is also a park campground for RV’s and a parking lot for canoeists arriving by car.

Our trip starts with a portage to Kibbee Lake, named after Frank Kibbee who guided hunting parties and became the first long-term game warden in the early 1900’s. He was also instrumental in having the interior of the lake chain set aside as a game reserve in 1925. We pass pretty Thompson Lake, on our way to our first night camp at the start of the portage to Indian Point Lake.

Isaac River and the chute: Here there is a stretch of white water (about .8km) which can be canoed or portaged. For those who choose to run it, we go over all the strokes you will need and teach you how to read moving water, followed by some practise runs. From the chute to McLeary Lake, there are two short portages and two short stretches of river. Just before McLeary Lake, there is a side trail leading to Isaac Falls. McLeary Lake is a beautiful, small lake with a great view of the mountains and the Cariboo Glacier.

It is also the site of Freddie Becker’s first cabin, built in 1935. We paddle the swift-moving Cariboo River, whose source is the Cariboo Glacier and which leads us to Lanezi Lake, the second largest lake on the circuit with spectacular mountain peaks towering over it. Here, we may encounter a number of log jams but we know all the right channels and will see you through with no problem. We spend our fifth night at the Turner Creek camp site on Lanezi Lake.

Seventh Day

Next, via a portage, is Babcock Lake, named for J.P.Babcock, a B.C. Fish Commissioner, who was instrumental in having the interior of the lake chain set aside as a game reserve in 1925. Then, we walk a short portage to Skoi Lake, the smallest lake on the circuit, and then, do another equally short portage to Spectacle Lake. We have left the mountains now and are into more open, marsh-type country where, if you’re watchful, you may see a moose.

Our seventh night camp site is at the birches, a beautiful spot amidst birch trees. The campsite offers a great view of the mountains in the middle of the lake chain and access to the Bowron marsh.

We enter the Bowron Marsh, teeming with birds and wildlife, where you are likely to see moose, beaver, muskrat, and marten. Wolves can be heard and salmon spawn in the river. Finally, we are on Bowron Lake, formerly known as Bear Lake. It was named for John Bowron, one of Barkerville’s residents in the 1860’s. He held positions such as postmaster, fire warden, government agent, and gold commissioner. Our trip ends on the morning of the eighth day, enjoying a hot breakfast once we arrive back at Bear River Mercantile!

Shelter, Equipment, Food

Bowron Lakes Provincial Park has granted Pathways prime reserved campsites, eliminating the competitive “first come first serve” syndrome. This allows us to enjoy a more leisurely pace each day and the security of a private site each night. Canoes and double-occupancy tents are top-of-the line models for comfort and safety. You need bring only your personal gear. Sleeping bags, pads and backpacks are available for rent. Each day, we cook and provide you with wholesome, hot meals.

Fitness Requirement

The route of our Bowron Lakes Guided Canoe Trips includes 108 km (65 miles) of paddling and 8 km (5 miles) of portaging. To assist with portaging (the longest is 2.4 km), each canoe has a two-wheeled carrier, allowing canoe partners to pull their share of the group gear over the portages, thus avoiding heavy shoulder loads. Clients will be required to carry their own back pack. Some portages are hilly, however and, when wet, can require considerable energy.

Good health, reasonable fitness and plenty of enthusiasm are your only requirements. Although it’s an outdoor adventure for all ages, including seniors, take into account that this is a wilderness experience. Paddling distances range from 2 to 17 kms per day, and inclement weather can make even a short day challenging.

We’d be happy to send client references for you to contact.

To find out more about another remarkable adventure take a look at our Pelly-Yukon Canoeing Tours

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The ultimate way to explore the slocan valley

Develop your skills with our certified guides, kayak, tube & paddle at your own pace, adventure rafting & tours, specialized in professional guiding experience..

Adventure Rafting is our hottest tour AND coolest way to escape the heat of the summer! Experience the Slocan Valley, with our secret swimming holes and rich history story telling.   We can accommodate small groups of 3-4 per raft or up to 8 per raft.  Ask about our accessible rafting and large group discounts.

Highest level of certified guides.

Learn how to safely navigate BC’s beautiful rivers by taking a Private lesson with one of our certified kayak or SUP instructors!  Boost your confidence, practice safety techniques, learn new paddling skills, and enjoy a break from the summer heat in the comfortable waters of the river.

Explore the river at your own pace.

We have a fleet of  paddle boards, kayaks, tubes and RAFTS for rent, (all necessary safety gear included) and will provide expert advice on where to go exploring! Be your own trip leader, go where you want, when you want.

Team Building

“Team building is an effective way to encourage a synchronized work environment.   When employees are taken out of their normal environment and put in a challenging situation amazing things can happen as people work as a team to rise to the occasion. This is a great way to develop strong bonds with your coworkers, earn their trust and achieve success working in a real life scenario.”

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“Just wanted to say thanks again for the awesome course. I’m still flying high from the run yesterday, what an awesome river. You guys did an awesome job guiding us down the river, and I was really impressed with the safety and professionalism.”

"hi andrea thanks so much for the call. we picked up our kayak on tuesday; fast and easy, no glitches i’ll have it in the water tomorrow evening. thanks so much for the awesome shirt, the decals and the package of info. your store looks so fun. love your website too by the way. you have been a real pleasure to work with. thank you.", "just wanted to thank you again for the great weekend we learned alot, but had fun at the same time thanks to you for coordinating everything, and thanks to andrea for being our “leader” we are looking forward to the river tour and will be in touch with you in the near future thanks again", melanie skerik, "hey guys, just recieved; very positive article on endless adventure – great job and best wishes for your venture’s continued success the team trials was a huge achievement for nick, and we are thrilled with his progress over the past few years.wanted to thank you once again for the time and effort spent assisting in his development of skills.", "my son did this camp last year and loved it. a year later and he is still talking about all the fun he had. so we look forward to doing this camp again this year. thank you sooo much for giving children a chance to learn about the outdoors and activities that can last a lifetime.", tina & george, "we just wanted to say thank you so much for our awesome kayaking adventure, including us in paddle night and letting us stay in the cabin. this is definitely a place we hope to come back to. thanks again for everything.", lauren & jeff, privacy preference center, privacy preferences.

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Blackwater River in British Columbia

Trip overview.

Although kayakers would tire of the flat stretches, and beginners would be frightened by the rapids, for open-canoeing whitewater tripping, I don't think many rivers compare to this. You could spend several days on this river, depending on put-in and take-out - we did the "bridge to bridge" run over 2 days. Basically a medium-low volume river with lots of grade II-II+, with a few grade III sections that are fairly easy to scout.

If done in summer, the water is warm, but flow can drop too low in August if low precipitation. The environment is considered to be part of the dry interior forests (which is now heavily infested with the mountain pine beetle). The character of the rapids is long successions of pool-drop, with an interesting canyon at one point where the river narrows to a four foot slot (calm water no less).

If anyone is interested in coming up for this, you can email me. I would be very interested in doing the stretch to the Fraser River, which is more of the same but slightly more challenging.

Accommodations:

Camping on river.

Directions:

Southwest of Prince George, past Baldy Hughes, onto the Blackwater Road all the way to the River. Put in on Batununi Bridge, take out Blackwater Bridge.

Highly recommend the Northwest Paddling Brigade's Guidebook.

Trip Details

• Trip Duration: 2-3 Day Trip
• Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
• Skill Level: Advanced
• Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location

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Golden Paddle Trips

Best place to rent a Canoe, Kayak or SUP in Golden BC. Visit our riverside rental location. Paddle the Columbia River and the Columbia Wetlands. We're Open for the 2024 Season!

 Rent a Canoe, Kayak or Inflatable SUP in Golden, BC 

Paddle An Inflatable  SUP

The cool new paddling experience..

Enjoy a peaceful wetlands paddle on our inflatable SUPs. Be watching for the many species of birds and other wildlife.

Stand Up Paddleboard Fun!

A great way to travel the columbia river..

Our inflatable SUPs are very stable and easy to paddle. This is the fun way to take in the river & wetlands scenery.

Canoe the Wetlands

Everyone in the same boat..

Want to paddle together in the same craft? Rent a canoe. Explore many side channels and sloughs on the way.

Paddle A Unique BC Heritage Site

When you paddle down the Columbia River between Nicholson and Golden BC, you are actually moving through a vital and internationally recognized ecosystem - the Columbia River & Wetlands. The wetlands are part of a 15,070 hectare wetland of international importance located in the Columbia Valley of southeastern British Columbia. The wetlands are known to be the longest intact wetlands in North America. The river and associated wetlands form a vital support system for hundreds of species of migratory birds, fish, mammals and a variety of amphibious creatures.

The Columbia River itself is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It's source is Columbia Lake, 150 kilometers south of Golden. The river flows north to Golden through the Rocky Mountain Trench bordered on the east by the Rocky Mountains and to the West of the Golden area, the Purcell Mountains.

At the outlet of the Kicking Horse River at Golden, the mighty Columbia River turns slightly to the northwest and flows to Revelstoke, BC where it turns south and flows across the border into Washington State. It then turns west and flows on through Oregon finally emtying,  after a 2000km winding journey, into the Pacific Ocean at Astoria, Oregon.  The Columbia River is a vitally important resource to Canada and the US and is subject to several bi-lateral agreements between the two countries managing among other things environmental factors, water flows and hydro-electric production. For example, the many hydro-electric dams along its length produce more hydro-electric power than any other river in North America. The human demands and dependance on this river are immense.  When you paddle the Columbia River you are experiencing an international resource rich in significance and biodiversity. Respect!

Address Golden Paddle Trips 773 Canyon Creek Road Nicholson, BC Contacts Email: [email protected] Phone: 250-272-0859 Web: goldenpaddle.ca

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Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park : Canoeing

The Spatsizi/Stikine River trip is recommended for intermediate to advanced canoeists and takes a minimum of 6 to 9 days to complete. While the Spatsizi River is Grade I, the Stikine portion of the trip has many Grade II rapids and sections of Grade III and IV. There are no regular patrols on the river so once on the river you are on your own. 

There are two guide-outfitter camps on your route that may be of assistance in an emergency. The first is Hyland Post, 10km upstream of the confluence of the Spatsizi and Stikine Rivers, and the other is Upper Stikine Lodge, which is 2km downstream of the confluence. These camps are not always staffed so visitors should not depend upon them.

Spatsizi/Stikine River Canoe Route

Canoeing season.

Tuaton and Laslui Lakes are not usually ice-free until mid-June. River levels can be very high at this time and the canoeing much more difficult. By mid-July river levels have usually dropped and the prime canoeing season has begun. The most reliable weather is usually during July and August while the best time to see wildlife is during September and October.

Access 

The Spatsizi River is accessible from the BC Rail Grade, via the 5 km Didene Portage Trail. The Didene Portage Trail can be reached from Hwy 37 (near Eddontenajon Lake) via the Ealue Lake Road. The Ealue Lake Road is a 22 km gravel road that leaves Hwy 37 and heads east towards the Klappan River. Once you have crossed the Klappan River, you are on the BC Rail Grade. Turn right (south) onto the BC Rail Grade and the Didene Portage Trailhead will be approximately 93 km south of the Ealue Lake Road and Klappan FSR junction. The Didene Portage Trailhead is approximately 115 km from Highway 37, all on gravel road. 

Please note that the BC Rail Grade is not maintained and natural slides and washouts may close this access route at any given time. 

Spatsizi River Portage Trail 

This is a well maintained trail that travels down to the confluence of the Spatsizi, Didene and Kluayetz Rivers. There are several canoe rests along the trail. Once at the river, facilities include a fire ring, a bear-proof food cache, a pit toilet, a creel survey registration box and a visitor registration box (located on the visitor information shelter). This site is user-maintained; please pack-out what you pack-in.    

River boats

Please note that river boats are permitted on the Stikine River year-round. River boats are more commonly seen during the hunting season. The use of river boats is restricted on the Spatsizi River, upstream of Hyland Post, from break-up until September 1st of each year.

Safety in bear country

This is prime grizzly and black bear country. You should not leave any packs or food boxes unattended along any trial or waterway you travel. When camping over night, be sure that you have put your food items in a safe place, well away from your sleeping area. All garbage must be packed out. Do not bury garbage as animals will just dig it up again.

Spatsizi River portion

Once on the river you will find that it has many short, fast runs over gravel bars, with many braided channels. This braiding occurs mainly on the first 10 km of river below the put-in location. The canoeist must always be on the look-out for gravel bars and rocks and try to pick the best channel with the most water. Also, you must be watching for sweepers, trees that have fallen out over the river with branches hanging down into the water. Sweepers are very common on the upper Spatsizi. 

From the junction of the Spatsizi River and Buckinghorse Creek downstream to where Kliweguh Creek flows into the Spatsizi, the river grows much larger and the valley becomes much wider. This section offers some of the most scenic views along the entire waterway. This area is ideal for spotting wildlife such as moose, black bear, grizzly bear, wolf, mountain goat, caribou and the occasional stone sheep high on mountain slopes. 

From Kliweguh Creek to the Stikine River, the Spatsizi River flows through a wide valley of lodge-pole pine flats and semi-open grasslands, with many good camping areas along the shoreline. The river is much larger here and some braiding occurs downstream from Kliweguh Creek to Hyland Post. The river is somewhat faster in this area and the canoeist should always be reading the water, watching for rocks, gravel bars, sweepers, etc. The river traveler must keep in mind that long periods of rain or heavy storms can make a significant increase in the water volume. This brings swifter currents and less time to avoid any hazards and few places to land a canoe. 

Stikine River portion

Located 15km below the junctions of the Spatsizi and Stikine Rivers is Jewel Rapids. This section can be extremely hazardous, especially during high water, with ratings from Grade III to IV depending on the water level. There are many large boulders scattered through the channel that you must pick a route through. These rapids should be scouted from shore before attempting to run them. There is a sign located on the right bank of the river shortly before you arrive at Jewel Rapids. There is no portage trail to avoid Jewel Rapids. 

As of June 2, 2004, there is no warning sign indicating the start of the Jewel Rapids.

At Beggerlay Canyon, 20 km below the McBride River, there is a set of rapids that should be portaged during high water. There are 3 signs warning you of the rapids. The 3rd sign is located at the pull-out at the head of the portage trail on the right bank. All canoeists should land at the pull-out and scout the canyon thoroughly before making a decision whether to run the rapids or to portage around them. 

Shortly after leaving the Beggerlay Canyon, you will pass under an old railway bridge and you are now only 17 km away from the end of your trip. But there is still one more challenging section of the river to navigate. This area is located some 15 km downstream from the old railway bridge and should be approached with caution. After passing this area, you will soon reach the Highway 37 bridge. There is easy access to the vehicle parking area on the right bank just below the bridge.

Upper Stikine River Canoe Route

The Stikine River canoe trip is only recommended for advanced canoeists with considerable wilderness experience . There are many rapids, rocks and sweepers that must be avoided. Although most of the Stikine River is Grade I, there are several Grade II rapids and sections of Grade III and IV rapids that must be run. There are no regular patrols on the river; once on the river you are on your own. 

There are two guide-outfitter camps on your route that may be of assistance in an emergency. The first is located on the west end of Laslui Lake and the other is Upper Stikine Lodge, 2 km downstream of the confluence of the Spatsizi and Stikine Rivers. These camps are not always staffed so visitors should not depend upon them.

The trip length is 225km from Tuaton Lake to the pull-out at the Highway 37 bridge. You should allow a minimum of 8 days to complete this trip. It is possible to be picked up by floatplane at Upper Stikine Lodge (guide-outfitters camp). This must be arranged prior to starting your trip. Late season pick-ups may not be available due to low water levels.

The Stikine River route can be started at either Tuaton or Laslui Lake, both of which are accessible to float planes. Please note only permitted air charter companies are permitted to fly within. The canoe route starts off easily, going down Tuaton and Laslui Lakes and the section of river between them. Approximately 1.5 km downstream of Laslui Lake are the impassable Fountain Rapids, which must be portaged. There is a sign located at the pull-out on the right hand bank. A 1 km long portage trail goes around the rapids on the right bank. From this point the river changes character and the canoeing becomes much more challenging and strenuous. White water and standing waves are nearly constant.

Eight km downstream is the second portage around the Grade III Chapea Rapids just below Chapea Creek. Look for the sign located on the left bank indicating the pull-out for the portage trail. The portage trail is 1 km in length and is located on the left bank, which takes you around the Chapea rapids.

As of July 24, 2015, there is no warning sign indicating the start of Chapea Rapids.

The canoeing continues to be challenging until Moyez Creek. Once at Moyez Creek, you have covered the most difficult section of the river. The rapids downstream from here are more widely spaced and the canoeing easier. For details on the remainder of the canoe route, see the Stikine River Portion of the Spatsizi/Stikine Canoe Route.

The rivers are generally quite muddy during June & July, but some good Arctic grayling can be had if you fish where the smaller streams flow into the main rivers. In late August and September the fishing improves. The Spatsizi and Stikine are home to numerous rainbow trout, arctic grayling and dolly varden char. All persons angling in BC must have the appropriate licence.

There are no designated campsites although there are several campsites in and around the area. In addition, there are some rustic campsites located at Tuaton Lake, Fountain Rapids Portage, Chapea Portage, Beggarly canyon Portage and the Stikine River bridge on Hwy 37. If possible, camp on a sand or gravel bar as this has the least effect on local vegetation. This allows the rivers to reclaim your sites during high water.

On the Spatsizi River Canoe Route, there are two trails that permit the canoeist to get off the river for a few hours.

Mink Creek Trail to Cold Fish Lake Camp

The first trail leads to Cold Fish Lake Camp via the Mink Creek Trail. The trail is located on the downstream side of Mink Creek. To find the trailhead, go past Mink Creek and take the back channel on river left. From here you should be able to spot flagging to indicate the trailhead. The trip to Cold Fish Lake camp is approximately 20 km one way so several days should be allowed to make this trip.   

Spatsizi Plateau Trail

The Spatsizi Plateau Trail begins at Hyland Post. Please note that Hyland Post is private property so please respect it and ask permission to pass though this area. It takes approximately two hours to hike up to Spatsizi Plateau. From here you can spend several hours or several days on the plateau. Caribou can often be seen on the open rolling hills and Stone sheep may be seen on the rock escarpments.

On the Stikine River Canoe Route, aside from limitless bush-whacking trips to alpine areas, there are two short hikes.

Shreiber Canyon Trail

2 km below the Pitman River is Shreiber Canyon. This canyon is not on the Stikine River but on a small side creek. An interesting short hike can be done up the canyon and for the adventurous, on to the cliffs overlooking the Stikine.   

Adoogacho Falls

A short hike up Adoogacho Creek leads to Adoogacho Falls.

Other considerations

• File a trip plan and estimated time of arrival with a trusted friend or relative.
• A number of cabins and active camps will be seen along the rivers. You should not use these facilities unless prior permission has been obtained.
• In order to carry a firearm, you are required to have the appropriate licence(s): a Possession Only Licence (POL) or a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL).
• A British Columbia angling licence is required if you intend to fish. Please consult current Freshwater Fishing Regulations.
• Topographic maps should be obtained before arriving at the park. These maps are available from an authorized dealer. Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park is covered by map sheets 104H and 94E at a scale of 1:250 000.
• If you would like larger scaled maps (1:50 000) or plan to do some hiking, the maps required are:
94E 12, 94E 15, 104H ,7 104H , 104H 9, 104H 10, 104H 13, 104H 14, 104H 15, 104H 16,
104I 4
• The following companies offer a ferry service from Tatogga Lake to the Spatsizi River Access Trail (Didene Portage): Red Goat Lodge (250) 234-3261, Tatogga Lake Resort (250) 234-3526, or Rick’s Outdoor Rentals (250) 771-4243.

The Stikine River downstream from the Highway 37 bridge is un-navigable by any craft!

Paddling School

Our paddling school’s weekend canoe courses are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of the river environment. Taught by certified professional instructors.

River Rescue Courses

One of the best ways to increase your confidence on and IN moving water. Join a rescue course for whitewater canoeists!

Multi-Day Canoe Trips

From a 4 Rivers in 4 Days whitewater canoe trip on BC's top interior rivers, to a 14 day remote northern wilderness expedition, we have an exciting selection of multi-day trips. Book early as this these trips are popular!

Wild Mushroom Nature Tours

Explore the magical world of mushrooms on a guided tour into the misty forests of the Monashee near the the Okanagan Valley. Bring your camera and a sense of curiosity.

Your Okanagan Paddling School and Adventure Company

Our courses and trips are more than just about learning paddling skills.  Explore your potential, move your body, and connect with the wild places of British Columbia – one of the most beautiful natural places on Earth.  Ranging from 3-hr lake canoeing lessons to our unique, multi-day river expeditions in the North , there is something for every canoeing-related interest.  We provide world-class instruction and guiding from certified professionals who are leaders in their field and are passionate about sharing their craft with others.  Whether you’re preparing for a wilderness trip , wanting to improve your paddling skills , or just planning something special with your friends or family – we’ll help make it happen in an atmosphere of kindness, respect, and fun!

Bring your spirit of adventure and join us this season for a memorable experience outdoors!