From sea kayaking the Howe Sound to canoeing the Bowron Lakes to heli-rafting down the rapids of Golden’s Kicking Horse River, British Columbia is revered as a world-renowned paddling destination, offering an extensive variety of experiences that appeal to every kind of paddler, from novice to expert.
Now, locals and tourists alike can easily discover Canada’s best paddling experiences year-round at PaddleBC.ca, an online directory of paddling destinations, guided excursions + essential tips.
With the slogan “Just add water,” PaddleBC.ca offers people a convenient directory of BC’s top waterways for paddling, kayaking, rafting, canoeing, and kayak fishing, across the six diverse regions of the province, with a focus on vetted experiences that ensure safe and memorable excursions.
“BC is a year-round destination of choice, offering visitors and residents alike the opportunity to enjoy acclaimed paddling experiences in multiple corners of the province, in all seasons,” says Robyn Hanson, Manager of Co-op Marketing Programs with Destination BC.
Indeed, BC boasts over 25,000 km of ocean coastline and more than 20,000 lakes, and weather that makes the activities possible year-round.
Paddleboarding guide Norm Hann says, “With a temperate climate, coastal British Columbia can provide spectacular paddling conditions all year long. If you are properly dressed, have the right safety gear and are aware of how to make safe decisions out on the water, you can enjoy your passion for paddling every month of the year.”
Carmen Narancsik, owner of Glacier Raft Company, adds, “The most sought-after Canadian rafting experiences are in British Columbia. The Kicking Horse River is renowned for its plethora of big wave riding. There’s a variety of warm water, family-friendly rafting throughout the interior. And there’s unlimited class 3-4 whitewater on glacial-fed rivers from the Canadian Rockies to the coast.”
Among the year-round paddling excursions around the province are:
Winter: Paddlers can explore waters such as the Howe Sound, or take a guided paddling trip off the south coast of Vancouver Island near Victoria where large herds of sea lions and flocks of waterfowl can be seen up close.
Spring: The ideal time to book a whitewater rafting adventure as the melting mountain snows swell the rivers making for some incredibly exciting paddling. BC is renowned for such waterways as the Kicking Horse River near Golden, the Elk River near Fernie, and the Cheakamus River near Squamish.
Summer: The best time for flat-water paddling excursions, such as the famed 113-km-long Bowron Lakes circuit, or for enjoying a day-long tour of Kamloops Lake hosted by a Moccasin Trails guide, who will share ancestral songs and stories dating back thousands of years.
Fall: The autumn months are the best time for enjoying slower paddles in BC like in the Columbia River wetlands near Golden. During this season, it’s easier to take in the changing foliage, especially in areas such as the Kootenays where the larch forests turn a rich golden colour. It’s also a great time to spot wildlife including bears and eagles feasting on salmon in the rivers and tributaries.
Launched in 2022, Paddle BC is a collaboration between paddling associations and tourism organizations, including Destination British Columbia, the BC Rafting Outfitters Association, and many more.