kayak trips bc

Kayaking Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, and the Great Bear Rainforest

Welcome to British Columbia, one of the premiere destinations for sea kayaking in the world. Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures has been running fully outfitted guided kayak tours on the coast of British Columbia since 1999. Our experienced guides will take you on an adventure through stunning waterways and lush temperate rainforests, with incredible wildlife sightings.

We pride ourselves on keeping our group sizes small, allowing for close personal attention and minimal impact on the environment and wildlife we view from our kayaks. Our experienced kayak guides are passionate about kayaking and the wilderness and will eagerly share their knowledge with you, ensuring that your trip is full of memories that will last a lifetime.

With 25 years of experience, we offer unparalleled sea kayaking adventures in some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the world, including northern Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, and the Great Bear Rainforest. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just starting out, we have the perfect tour for you.

Experience the unparalleled beauty of British Columbia from the comfort of your kayak. Book your sea kayak tour with Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures today and discover the natural wonders of this breathtaking region.

KAYAK WITH WHALES

Base Camp Kayaking 4 days / 3 nights

Imagine waking to the sound of a humpback’s breath as it glides past your tent. Later, take in a moment of awe watching a pod of orcas from your kayak, while the rest of the day is filled with the soft huffs of seals and quiet wingbeats, as bald eagles swoop over the water in search of salmon. 

WHALES AND GRIZZLY BEARS

Seeing a humpback whale lunging through a school of bait fish, a grizzly bear chasing a salmon through a shallow river, or a pod of killer whales surfacing in unison are often considered once in a lifetime experiences and all three are possible on this tour..

FAMILY KAYAK WITH WHALES

Searching under rocks for crabs, watching humpback whales feed on a school of small fish, or being surprised as a harbour seal pops up right next to their kayak, are all memories children cherish for a lifetime. This kayak tour is designed for families with children aged six to fourteen.

WHALES AND WILDLIFE EXPLORER

Expedition Kayaking 6 days / 5 nights

Imagine waking one morning to the sound of a humpback whale’s blow as it swims past your ocean-side tent. Later that same day watch in awe, as a pod of killer whales, also known as orcas, swim past your kayak as a bald eagle swoops down to catch a salmon.

SEA OTTER EXPLORER

Central gwaii haanas explorer.

Expedition Kayaking 5 days / 4 nights

Highlights of the Central Gwaii Haanas Explorer tour include soaking in the natural pools at G andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island) and kayaking the wildlife rich waters of Juan Perez Sound. This five day tour has a more relaxed pace than our longer Gwaii Haanas Explorer kayak tours

NORTHERN GWAII HAANAS EXPLORER

Expedition Kayaking 8 days / 7 nights

The Northern Gwaii Hannas Explorer tours travel between Tanu Island and Burnaby Island in the northern half of Gwaii Haanas. Paddle sheltered channels, secluded bays, and exposed coastline, visit Haida cultural sites T’aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu) and Hlk’yah G aw G a (Windy Bay) and soak in natural hot springs.

SOUTHERN GWAII HAANAS EXPLORER

The Southern Gwaii Haanas Explorer tour kayaks the southern end of Gwaii Haanas, from K ’iid Xyangs K ’iidaay along the rugged coastline to Rose Harbour. Fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities, colourful inter-tidal life, wonderful campsite locations, and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of S G ang Gwaay.

ULTIMATE GWAII HAANAS EXPLORER

Expedition Kayaking 15 days / 14 nights

This trip is our longest offering, and provides visitors the opportunity to explore almost the entire Gwaii Haanas National Park and Haida Heritage Site. This experience starts near the northern boundary of Gwaii Haanas, and culminates near the south end after a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of S G ang Gwaay.

GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST

Expedition Kayaking 10 days / 9 nights

Stretching for 400 kilometres along British Columbia’s central coast, the Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world. This beautifully rugged coast offers the adventurous traveller with diverse kayaking routes, abundant wildlife, and a rich First Nations culture.

PRIVATE GROUP TOUR

Base Camp or Expedition Kayaking varies

We offer two types of tours for those wanting to organize a private tour for their own group of family, friends, colleagues, or paddling club.

kayakwithwhales

Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures offers guided multi-day kayak tours on Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii and the Great Bear Rainforest

Powell River Sea Kayak – Desolation Sound, British Columbia

Offering Eco Resort Packages, Multi-Day Kayak Tours, Day Tours and Kayak Rentals on BC’s west coast

Experience the warm waters of Desolation Sound, towering mountains of Toba Inlet & prolific marine wildlife of the Discovery Islands

We have been running kayak tours in Desolation Sound, British Columbia since 1995 and our passion and expertise are unbeatable when choosing to kayak BC’s largest Marine Park

Experience Desolation in True Comfort

Cabana Desolation Eco Resort

All-Inclusive Guided Sea Kayak & Unguided ‘Chill & Immerse’ eco resort accommodation packages on an uninhabited island in the heart of Desolation Sound, British Columbia.

Experience the wonders of Desolation Sound in style on one of our kayak tours with cabana-style lodging nestled amongst the trees of a west coast rainforest.

Vacation & Expedition Style Kayak Camping Tours

Multi-Day BC Kayak Tours

We offer all-inclusive, guided, multi-day BC kayak tours into Desolation Sound, Toba Inlet and the Discovery Islands.

Choose a relaxed yet active ‘vacation-style’ Desolation Sound tour, or travel deep into the Coast Mountains of British Columbia on a rugged and remote sea kayak expedition. This is kayaking in BC at its very best!

Sea Kayak Day Tours from Okeover or Lund

Kayak Day Tours

Full day kayaking tours paddling into Desolation Sound Marine Park via the protected Okeover, Malaspina & Lancelot Inlets.

A popular option is one of our ‘combo snorkel & kayak tours’ into Desolation Sound Marine Park. On days with low tides, get up-close and interact with the intertidal marine life of Desolation Sound and Snorkel with the Stars!

Explore Desolation on a Self-Guided Adventure

Sea Kayak Rentals & Lessons

We also rent sea kayaks and equipment for self-guided day and multi-day kayak trips into Desolation Sound and the surrounding inlets and waterways of Desolation Sound Marine Park.

Please follow the links on our rentals page for detailed planning information and safety requirements before planning self-guided kayaking trips in BC’s Desolation Sound.

With gratitude, we acknowledge that we work, live and operate on the traditional territories of the Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Homalco Nations.

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Powell River Sea Kayak Ltd.

10676 Crowther Road Powell River, BC V8A 0G4

(604) 483 2160 1 (866) 617 4444   (toll-free)

[email protected]

www.bcseakayak.com

www.cabanadesolation.com

WELCOME TO MOTHERSHIP ADVENTURES

EXPLORE THE WEST COAST OF BRITISH COLUMBIA ABOARD THE HISTORIC COLUMBIA III

Discover BC’s Top Sea Kayak Tours

We offer multi-day mothership sea kayaking tours in areas rarely visited by other paddlers.

With Columbia III’s onboard accommodation, our sea kayaking tours are not limited to areas with natural campsites. We paddle the remote, steep and rugged parts of the BC coast, often with dense bear populations, where other kayakers can rarely venture.

Accompanied by professional sea kayak guides and naturalists, our fast and stable double kayaks bring us closer to nature than any other form of marine travel. Glide across the water, observe undisturbed wildlife on the shoreline, learn of the aquatic life beneath your seat, and watch whales from the waterline. After a day of paddling and exploring, come home to our luxury vessel where gourmet meals, wine, conversation, laughter and relaxation await you.

COASTAL CRUISES

Our Coastal Cruises are perfect for anyone curious to learn of BC’s stunning wilderness, abundant wildlife and rich coastal history.

Cruise the glacial-fed waters of coastal BC, home to ancient rainforests and frequented by orca killer whales, humpback whales, pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour seals, black bears, grizzly bears, spirit bears, bald eagles and more. On daily shore excursions, we can explore ancient First Nations village sites, visit remote communities only accessible by water, and investigate tide-pools and seabird nesting colonies. Our professional guides and workshop leaders will accompany you on the adventure that fits your interests. Each night we’ll find a quiet secluded anchorage for an evening of onboard relaxation and camaraderie with like-minded travelers.

Our tours fill up fast. Some spaces are still currently available aboard our Broughton Archipelago, Desolation Sound and Great Bear Rainforest tours.

We are now taking reservations for 2025. We encourage guests to book as early as possible to ensure your desired dates and trip destination, especially for large groups or private charters.

KAYAKING TOUR

Great Bear Rainforest

Broughton archipelago & johnstone strait.

Kayaking Tour

Desolation Sound

Cruising Tour

Coastal History Cruising TOur

Testimonials.

Over the years, we've provided ‘trips of a lifetime’ for countless travellers from around the world. See what our past guests have to say about their experiences with us.

“Trips on the COLUMBIA III have now become a necessity rather than a passing fancy. Thanks to the splendid crew, the wonderful chef and of course, my esteemed Captain Ross. I will rise again and organize another venture!”

–  Paddy  Victoria BC Whole boat charter, 2011, 2015

“We are truly in awe of the experience you shared with us. The attention to detail and the quality of care you show your guests is outstanding. Fern, the food was incredible, kayaking will always bring back memories of the smells coming from your galley and the camaraderie shared at the table. Ross, your love and enthusiasm for the COLUMBIA III and Mothership Adventures always shows in the stories and knowledge you so freely share. Thank you all for one of the best vacations we’ve ever had, along with the opportunity to share a week in your lives. We can’t thank you enough.”

– 2012  Joan and Michael Collins , Publishers, Sea Kayaker Magazine

“Another amazing trip aboard my favorite boat. It’s like taking our home into the middle of a vast, wild, beautiful wilderness, and then getting to quietly be a part of that natural world. A gentle spirit bear, sparring grizzlies, breaching whales and gorgeous paddling water! And then great food, good humor, amazing stories and wonderful friends. Thank you everyone for a unique and fantastic trip.”

–  Mary, Cour D’Alene  Idaho. 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 and whole boat charter 2018, and returning in 2022

“So we travel all the way from England with hope and expectation for a great adventure and what did we get? A bl**dy fantastic adventure! The mix of wildlife, including the elusive Spirit Bear, grizzlies, black bears, wolves, sea otters, eagles and all the rest. Plus guides who know everything about everything!!!!! Plus food that was so, so, so, good, never a scrap was left, plus such great friendship and humour from all the guests and crew. Shame about the Skipper, but can’t have everything I suppose! So many thanks to Ross, Luke, Steve and Farlyn for the best time ever. Such great friends.”

–  Steve & Anne, Steve & Carey , 2008, 2009, 2016 and  Vince and Jacky , England

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE

Book Your Trip Today to Reserve Your Desired Dates and Trip Destination

Our Sea Kayak Tours

Check out our sea kayaking tours on and around Vancouver Island. We take pride in offering a wide variety of world class trips on the coast of BC with a focus on Vancouver island kayaking multi day trips.

From Kayaking with Humpbacks and Orca in Johnstone Strait , Paddling with Sea Otters and camping on remote beaches on the exposed coast of Kyuqout,   Clayoqout and Nuchatlitz, or exploring the sheltered waters of Broken Group Islands and the Northern Gulf Islands .

Robson Bight Ecological Reserve

Johnstone strait orca tours.

If you want to kayak with orcas, this is the expedition for you. Located on the Northeast coast of Vancouver Island, our kayaking trips in Johnstone Strait offer an amazing opportunity to view and paddle with Orca whales (Killer Whales) in a pristine environment

Whether you are looking for a fully catered Vancouver island kayaking trip or looking to provide your own food on our newly available ‘Bare Bones Trips’ for pirate paddlers looking to save some coins in their treasure chest. Our highly trained and qualified guides will facilitate a holiday to remember, with amazing food, safe paddling, stunning sights and campsites.

West Coast Tofino

Clayoquot sound sea kayaking.

Treat yourself to some of the finest paddling on the west coast of this continent. Launching from the fishing village of Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island, we will enjoy four enchanting days of discovery as we paddle the inlets and waterways of magical Clayoquot Sound.

West Coast Vancouver Island

Broken group islands - pacific rim national park.

This cluster of picturesque islands in the sheltered waters of Barclay Sound and the Broken Group Islands is one of our favourite kayaking destinations. Located off the Westcoast of Vancouver Island, the calm, crystal clear waters are home to porpoises, river otters, sea-lions.

We provide all group gear, kayaks and equipment, group shelters and kitchens, plus rent camping gear for those who need it.  All you have to do is bring yourself equipped with your personal gear (packing list provided), and a sense of adventure and wonder, then let us do the rest.

Gulf Islands and the Salish Sea

Daytrippin' in the gulf islands.

Treat yourself to a fantastic day of paddling delight as we explore the coastlines of DeCourcy and Link Islands. Located just minutes south of Nanaimo, this area offers sandy beaches, sheltered waters and a myriad of islands for our paddling delight. A perfect introduction for those of you who want to have a "taste" of sea-kayaking.

Gulf Islands Kayak Tours

A perfect introduction to sea-kayaking for those unsure of a longer expedition. We enjoy a delightful route through the scattered islands of the Stuart and Pylades Channels. Embarking from Cedar-by-the-Sea, just minutes south of Nanaimo, well explore the DeCourcy Group where calm waters, gorgeous shorelines, sandy beaches and a variety of sea/wildlife await our pleasure.

Wildheart Adventures has Vancouver island kayaking trips for everyone, so much so you will want to come back for more. See our reviews on Tripadvisor and Google .

“I joined the Wildheart’s Wild Westcoast adventure Aug 17-23 and had an amazing time. Jaimie and Jaimie led us on a great adventure through the Kyuquot area. The paddling was gorgeous, the food amazing, and their ability to lead us safely given the disparate levels of experience and fitness of the group, impressive. The crowning glory was the fresh caught lingcod we dined on for two dinners. I can’t wait for my next kayaking adventure with them- hopefully next year.” ~ Rachel French de Mejia

Extreme West Coast Adventure

Wild west coast kayak tours.

The waters off the west coast of Vancouver Island offers the intrepid paddler some of the best paddling in the world. As one journeys further up the coastline, small settlements are left behind and a true sense of solitude evoked by the timeless beauty of coastal mountains, ancient rain forests and the raw energy of the Pacific Ocean surround us. This is the Wild West Coast of Vancouver Island.

KAYAK TOURS

• Nanaimo Kayak Day Trip
• Gulf Islands
• Wild West Coast
• Clayoquot Sound
• Nootka Islands
• Johnstone Strait Robson Bight

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Desolation Sound

Warm-water paddling beneath the towering Coast Mountain Range of BC

Paddling a Warm Water Paradise

Everyone, focus on scenery and relaxed pace.

Tour Price:

What's Included?

Click to learn more

Minimum Age:

* Kayaking trips & tours are priced and charged in Canadian dollars and are subject to 5% GST and $20 / person environmental sustainability fee. Please see our Terms and Conditions for complete terms. To check live availability on any trip, click the Book Now tab and select a trip date.

KAYAKING & ADVENTURING IN A PADDLERS’ PARADISE

Desolation Sound Marine Park is a world-class sea kayaking destination. Enjoy the warmest waters north of Baja, nestled beneath the towering mountains of the BC Coast Mountain range for a truly awe-inspiring adventure. The area provides great kayaking among protected islands and bays and opportunities for freshwater swimming. A few walks and hikes can be included in the trip, depending on your interests. Desolation Sound is a great place to simply relax and immerse yourself in the best that BC coast has to offer. This tour is suitable for all experience levels.

THE DESTINATION

Nestled between the Canadian mainland and Vancouver Island, Desolation Sound offers sheltered conditions and diverse paddling options, along with spectacular camping locations. The rugged mountain terrain has kept this part of the coastline free of road access: making kayaks the perfect way to visit this majestic and unspoiled area. We enjoy views of soaring peaks and dramatic cliffs that fall away into the ocean. This region is ripe for exploring, providing an intricate web of river mouths, inlets and small islands.

Our days will be filled with circumnavigating these idyllic islands, exploring the deep-water inlets created by glaciers, exploring the intertidal life in the warm shallow bays, stretching our legs to reach some beautiful viewpoints overlooking the area and swimming in freshwater lakes. While most of the paddling takes place in relatively sheltered waters, we do also experience a few more exposed and open water crossings. Your guides will provide training and assistance to ensure everyone is safe and comfortable. Please also be aware that the shorelines in Desolation Sound plunge steeply into the ocean. Landings can be small, rocky and uneven underfoot. Some boat carries are steep and some landings require you to move quickly. Your guides will assist where they can, but good mobility is required for this tour.

Our adventure begins from Squirrel Cove on Cortes Island. A short 40-minute ferry ride from Quadra Island and a 10-minute drive across Cortes Island brings you to Squirrel Cove, where we begin our adventure via kayak. This tour is an out and back expedition style trip where we begin and end the paddling portion of our trip in Squirrel Cove. From here we journey out to the islands where we will camp for the trip’s duration. Although this tour is a true expedition style trip, packing everything we need into our kayaks and changing campsites, it also offers the option of staying at one centrally located site for multiple nights and enjoying day paddles from there.

Camping & Dining

We paddle from campsite to campsite, setting up our tents on small islands and majestic bluffs overlooking bays, small beaches and secluded coves in the heart of Desolation Sound. The lush temperate rainforest that stretches down the mountainsides to the coast, offers trails winding through the unspoiled wilderness. Visit old-growth trees and stretch your legs after a day in the kayak. The long summer days and Mediterranean like climate make it inviting to take a refreshing swim in one of the many fresh-water lakes or the warm ocean water- there are no shortage of beautiful locations to dive right in.

Your guides take care of your safety and wellbeing for the duration of the trip. These multi-talented wilderness guides prepare 3 fresh and wholesome meals each day. The first night includes a wild fish dinner which we source from a Quadra Island fisher family. We take pride in having happy campers with full bellies. Our wonderful team ensures all dietary needs and restrictions are met, and provide creative culinary alternatives that will please vegetarians, vegans, gluten and wheat-free diets, and those with various allergies and food sensitivities. Learn more about the meals we serve on our Food page .

Crawl into your tent after watching stunningly beautiful sunsets, falling asleep to the sound of gentle waves crashing onto the rocky beaches.

Other Activities

Other activities include hiking, kayaking skills development, shellfish harvesting, and lots of opportunities to swim in the nearby lakes as well as the warmest ocean waters north of Mexico.

INTERTIDAL LIFE & ANIMALS

Discover and learn all about the awe-inspiring intertidal world. Every 6 hours the tide uncovers a fascinating variety of marine plants and animals such as colonies of big and small starfish, sea urchins, colorful sea anemones and much more.

We are often fortunate to view marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, river otters, the occasional sea otter, deer, black bears. While not seen on every tour, we do sometimes also have the privilege of watching humpback whales and or orca whales who enjoy the abundance of plankton and food sources that live in these rich waters year-round. There is also incredibly rich birdlife include many different types of sea birds as well as the majestic North American bald eagle.

Your professional guides have extensive training & experience in sea kayaking and in sharing the natural and cultural history of the area. Our groups are small with maximum 10 guests and 2 guides, and our tours all-inclusive. We provide everything you need for the adventure! Join us for a once in a lifetime kayaking adventure.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Professional guiding service
• All kayaking equipment (including kayaks, PFDs, paddles, pumps, ropes and sponges)
• All meals and snacks from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 5
• Non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, teas, juices, water)
• Camping equipment including tents, camp pillows, Therma-rest sleeping pads, tarps, and more.
• Park and land use permits

If you are planning on bringing any of your own equipment please double-check the packing list to ensure you have the appropriate gear and please let our office know in advance of the tour to avoid us bringing duplicates.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

Not included in the tour cost are accommodation before or after the kayaking portion of your trip;

• Flights, airport transfers, ferries, taxis,
• Travel/medical insurance
• Alcoholic or carbonated beverages
• Sleeping bags*
• Personal items (toiletries, clothing, etc.)
• Guide gratuity

*Sleeping bags and rain gear may be rented if you prefer not to travel with them (please reserve in advance; may be booked online with your trip reservation).

Also Available for private group Reservations

If you have a large group that would like to book a the whole tour as a private group, ask us about booking out the whole trip for just you & your group.

Spirit of the West acknowledges and operates in the unceded traditional territory of the Mamalilikulla-Qwe'Qwa'Sot'Em, 'Namgis, Tlowitsis, Kwikwasut’inuxw, Nuu-chah-nulth, We Wai Kai, Homalco, Klahoose and Heiltsuk First Nations.

The Desolation Sound tour launches from the east side of our neighbouring Cortes Island. The details below should help give you a fuller picture of the day-to-day trip experience.

TOUR MEETING LOCATION

Where & when: quadra island, 7:30 am or cortes island,   10:15 am (day 1).

You can meet either on Quadra Island or on Cortes Island at the Squirrel Cove Store & boat launch. If meeting us on Cortes Island, please call our office to let us know.

Spirit of the West Adventures is based on Quadra Island (a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River) and this is where our tour starts. We highly recommend making Quadra Island a part of your vacation plans. Our beautiful island has a whole different and laid back feel to it, complete with endless opportunities for outdoor activities, beaches to relax, amazing accommodations and great local artisans.

RETURN TIME

Where & when:  quadra island, between 3-5 pm (day 5).

Return time can depend on weather and travel conditions and what ferry we will catch from Cortes to Quadra. We try our best to get you back on time for your onward travels or to explore more of what Quadra and Vancouver Island has to offer.

Please let us know if you will be meeting us on Quadra Island or Cortes Island. For those meeting on Quadra, we will catch the 8:45 am ferry to Cortes Island (45-minute ride) and then travel to our launch site at Squirrel Cove. After packing our kayaks we will spend some time reviewing kayaking skills and tips for comfort and of course safety procedures before our journey begins. Our route takes us on a paddle towards the fjords of Desolation Sound, providing us with a stunning mountain backdrop. There are a number of beautiful sites within an afternoon’s paddle. Keep your eyes open for harbour seals or Dall’s porpoises along the way!

Savour our first hearty breakfast in the great outdoors before we pack up and head off on today’s adventure. We continue on into the enchanting islands, kayaking Desolation Sound where we take our time exploring as we head towards our desired camping site for the evening.

DAYS 3 & 4

These days may entail paddling through the scattered islands, interpretive forest walks, swimming in freshwater lakes, practicing some on-water skills, or simply lounging at our island campsites.

We will journey back to Cortes Island along the rugged shores of West Redonda Island. A visit to Refuge Cove or the lovely protected lagoon of Squirrel Cove will be our last stop of our 5-day kayak journey.

Our approximate return time to Quadra Island is between 3-5 pm, however, due to the number of variables in wilderness travel we recommend that you plan to stay in the area for this night to avoid unnecessarily stressful complications should our return be delayed by something out of our control. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss your travel plans in more detail.

Below is a list of commonly asked questions. If you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call us.

+ WHAT MAKES OUR DESOLATION SOUND EXPEDITION SPECIAL?

The 5-day Desolation Sound tour is our most relaxed expedition-style tour in terms of the distance covered and conditions encountered.* The area typically offers calm and sheltered paddling conditions with the exception of a few small crossings between islands. This tour also often incorporates other activities, such as hiking and swimming at nearby lakes. Enjoy sweeping views of the remarkable Coast Mountain range as you paddle amongst scattered islands and dramatic shorelines. 

An added perk: this region is known for having some of the warmest waters north of Baja in the Pacific.

*Most of the shorelines on this tour are rocky and occasionally steep, so good mobility is necessary for landings and boat carries. Guests should be able to navigate slippery and sharp, rocky beaches without assistance, able to lift/carry personal items and walk up occasional short, steep beaches to our tent sites. 

+ WHAT ARE THE CAMPSITES LIKE IN DESOLATION SOUND MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK?

All of our sites are in wilderness settings and our shelter each night is provided by the tents and tarps we carry with us on expedition tours. The sites in Desolation Sound most often have wooden platforms in the forest or on grassy bluffs overlooking the ocean. There may be times (on occasion) when we are camping next to another group of kayakers. Campsite choice will be based on group size, route options, and weather conditions. 

The shorelines in Desolation Sound plunge steeply into the ocean. There are very few ‘proper’ beaches – landings are small, rocky and uneven underfoot. Some boat carries are steep and some landings require you to move quickly. Your guides will assist where they can, but good mobility is required. These rocky beaches are also often covered in sharp mussels and oysters. We highly recommend protective closed-toe footwear such as water shoes, Keen-style sandals or crocs for paddling shoes on this tour. 

+ HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED FOR THIS EXPEDITION? WHAT SORT OF DISTANCE IS COVERED EACH DAY?

In Desolation Sound, we tend to paddle at a relaxed pace. We typically paddle for 4-6 hours and cover 6-8 nautical miles per day. The water here is much warmer due to reduced tidal flow with the open ocean. Between the warm ocean and several freshwater lakes that are a short walk from the ocean’s edge, we usually get in some good swimming. We carry all our gear and food in the kayaks, but will often spend a couple of days at the same campsite so we don’t have to take down tents and pack the kayak every day. One key aspect to note is that the landings and boat carries on this tour can be tricky due to the nature of the rocky shorelines – good mobility is necessary. Guests should be able to navigate slippery and sharp, rocky beaches without assistance, able to lift/carry personal items and walk up occasional short, steep beaches to our tent sites. 

The Desolation Sound area offers a great deal of flexibility in terms of route, distance covered, campsites and daily activities. We try to get a sense of what the desires of the group are and plan our route based on the group’s needs. We always paddle at a pace dictated by the group and take lots of breaks to stretch and explore the shoreline.

+ WHERE DO WE WASH AND WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO TOILETS?

Our Desolation Sound expedition is our only trip where there is fairly reliable access to freshwater lakes and swimming spots. Therefore, there is the occasional opportunity for washing up in these spots. Otherwise, salt water works just fine! We ask that you use environmentally-conscious and biodegradable shampoos and soap. 

Because much of Desolation Sound is a well-trafficked designated marine park, there are pit toilets at most of the campsites. We also carry a portable toilet system as a backup for group use. Your guides will always designate an area that works best for ensuring your privacy. We are very accustomed to making sure all of our guests feel comfortable and informed – please feel free to ask us any questions you might have, before or during your tour.

+ WHAT SORT OF WILDLIFE CAN I EXPECT TO SEE IN DESOLATION SOUND?

Our tours in Desolation Sound do not regularly encounter orca or humpbacks, although sightings do happen from time to time. It is known for being an incredibly rich and diverse area – sightings of dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, bears, deer and many bird species are common and always special to experience.

We like to be upfront about wildlife and potential sightings as all wildlife is just that— wild. We choose our direction of travel carefully, monitor wildlife activity on our VHF radios, and plan our days accordingly to try and maximize sightings of all wildlife varieties. We do our best to allow the group a chance to encounter these amazing creatures in their natural habitat, however, we cannot predict specifically where they will be at any given time.

+ WHERE DO WE MEET ON DAY 1?

Tour meeting location: Quadra Island, 7:30 am or Cortes Island, 10:15 am (Day 1)

You can meet either on Quadra Island or on Cortes Island at the Squirrel Cove Store & boat launch. If meeting us on Cortes Island, please let our office know.

Spirit of the West Adventures is based on Quadra Island (a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River) and this is where our tour starts. Free parking will be available at our office on Quadra for your vehicle while on tour with us. Many of the accommodations on Quadra Island also have free parking included with your stay. Parking is also available at Squirrel Cove for a daily fee. 

We highly recommend making Quadra Island a part of your vacation plans. Our beautiful island has a whole different and laid-back feel to it, complete with endless opportunities for outdoor activities, beaches to relax, amazing accommodations and great local artisans.

+ MORE FAQS

Head to our main FAQ page for more Frequently Asked Questions. 

We're proud of our great reviews - but don't just take our word for it, see what people are saying over on Trip Advisor. View Reviews

The Experience

I loved everything about this tour - the route was fabulous and gorgeous, the food was excellent, the guides were extremely competent and FUN! Highlight was the trip to the inland lake- we all had some much fun together.

The trip was well paced - good paddling distances and great lunch spots and camp spots. Our guides were amazing - they were so patient with us all - never rushing everyone - they both brought great energy to the group. The food was fantastic - I was amazed at the meals and found the food delicious - good quality - always enough for everyone. Would highly recommend the trip and Spirit of the West to everyone!

Great tour, loved the flexibility and terrain covered. Guides were patient and knowledgeable and listened to our needs. Amazing food. Awesome times!

So much unique and breathtaking scenic spots tucked away under the mountain backdrop. Gorgeous. In all, a challenging and rewarding experience in such a magnificent location. It built my confidence.

Unbelievable how much time I spent smiling on this trip. I found myself smiling one time, even when I was having a very serious conversation with a fellow kayaker - I just couldn't help it, I was in such a beautiful place.

I was convinced to go on this trip by my children. After going on this tour I feel like I'm 10 years younger: I'm reenergized after what feels like a long hibernation. Thank you.

I'm an English teacher and for the first time in a very long time I couldn't think of any words to describe what I was seeing. It was that spectacular. Thank you for putting together such an excellent team. I had an extraordinary experience.

I felt like I was doing something that I'd wanted to do for years but didn't know how to go about doing. With the Spirit of the West guides, Rick and Amy made me feel like these were the people I'd been waiting to get me out kayaking. They were exceptional.

Your guides are a wealth of knowledge. Not only knowledgeable about the area or the flora and fauna, but about the needs of the group, namely having fun. Sometimes I would scan the whole group and realize everyone was having a good time. That is a compliment to your team.

Bill and Helen

It is obvious that every one at Spirit of the West works hard to provide clients with an outstanding experience.

I felt safe and happy. The guides were like the people I asked to go to parties when I'm too shy to go by myself. They came in and just took total care that I was enjoying myself and feeling comfortable. They were very generous with their energy.

I think I might start a guide fund for all of my grandchildren. I want them to learn to do the kind of job that your guides did. Breanne and Luke were exceptionally skilled and I am considering living vicariously through them. Their enjoyment of their job was contagious and it energized the whole group. Congratulations on finding such great leaders.

Superb, and always surprising. We'd heard about the food, but it was even better than we expected.

I ate far better on this trip than I do at home!

I ate good wholesome food and always felt healthy which was what I needed after being so rushed in Toronto and always eating fast food on the go. Thank you for taking such good care of me. I have been rejuvenated.

I came with my teenage son. This was some much needed bonding time. I had never thought of whether he would eat the food, and when I saw the guides preparing the food I thought, oh no, what if he doesn't like it? He ate like it was Christmas dinner and he was happy. I felt instantly like I was having the best holiday. The energy that you put into the food was very much appreciated.

Our online booking system allows you easy access for booking your tour with Spirit of the West Adventures, any time of day.

Before finalizing your reservation, please carefully read over our  Terms & Conditions , as these terms will apply to your booking. We also highly recommend that you look into  Travel Insurance  options to protect your travels before booking your tour as some types of insurance (such as Cancel for Any Reason insurance) can only be accessed within a limited period of time after paying for any portion of your tour.

If you think that you would like to book a trip, but need time to look into other travel arrangements, please contact our office and we will place a temporary hold on your spaces. We also offer real humans to speak with if that’s your preference, so feel free to call our office at 1-800-307-3982 (from within Canada and the U.S) or 1-250-285-2121 (from overseas). We can be reached by email at  [email protected] . If, for any reason, you are having trouble booking your trip, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to help!

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?

We are happy to accommodate many dietary restrictions. However, dietary restrictions add additional complexity and costs to preparing for your tour. Please see below for some of the dietary restrictions we can accommodate and the associated costs for substitutions.

• $75 fee: gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan  (please add by pressing the blue + beside “Dietary Accommodation” when booking) 
• No additional cost: vegetarian, no red meat, no pork, no fish, no seafood

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies not listed above, please contact us at  [email protected]  to discuss if we are able to accommodate your needs and any additional charges. We take great pride and pleasure in serving you the best food we can for your adventure!

Any questions?

We are here to assist you in any way we can!

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Wildlife Kayak

Located in Telegraph Cove on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, BC, North Island Kayak has been providing travellers with the opportunity to kayak with whales and other marine wildlife in this spectacular, remote part of British Columbia since 1991.

Explore Tours

Basecamp Adventures

Where the real magic happens. Choose from two to five day voyages at sea kayaking in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America! Meals included.

Join us on our day tours for hours of non-intrusive sea kayaking in the dynamic Johnstone Strait! Explore islands, remote beaches, and the rugged coastal shallows of Vancouver Island. Meals not included.

Nomadic Expeditions

These trips are perfect for those who want to go on a one-way nomadic expedition through the incredible Broughton Archipelago. Expect to see spectacular wildlife, ancient village sites and sheltered coves to camp in. Meals included.

Quality service & experienced kayaking guides

Professional tour guides & boats

5 consecutive years of consistent high ratings from travellers

Delicious meals & healthy menus

First class camp locations & equipment

Sustainability and wildlife welfare

Wildlife Marine Sightings

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North Island Kayak would like to acknowledge that we operate on the traditional territories of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw tribes. We are aware that the adventure tourism industry which drives our passion for the outdoors could not happen without the use of the land and water that we camp, paddle and recreate on. North Island Kayak would like to acknowledge that our tours operate on a vast array of areas from what we know today as Telegraph Cove to the Broughton Archipelagos and the many islands between Vancouver Island and the coast of the mainland. The traditional territories we frequent the most include but not limited to; the ʼNa̱mǥis, Kwaguʼł, Mama̱liliḵa̱la, Dzawada̱ʼenux̱w, Ḵwikwa̱sutinux̱, & Ławitʼsis.

To learn more about the traditional peoples and the history of this land you will recreate on while touring with North Island Kayak, we recommend designating time to visit The Village of Alert Bay, and the U’mista Cultural Centre.

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Explore Magazine

23 Kayak and Canoe Routes in British Columbia

Michaela Ludwig

June 15, 2016

Another great article presented by

Water, water everywhere. An expansive coastline dotted with islands, sounds, channels and fjords, British Columbia is a paddler’s paradise. And if saltwater expeditions don’t suit your fancy, there’s a web of rivers and lakes blanketing our province. Chief among our favourite ways to explore B.C. is by kayak and canoe. We love the remote corners and serene pockets that waterways lead us to. We love spying bears scavenging on shorelines, whales breaching at sea and blooms of pulsating jellyfish. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely half-day paddle, overnighter or multi-day expedition, we’ve assembled a collection of 23 routes and water trails to get you started. 

Pictured above is My Passion Media’s  official truck, customized by Cap-It . It’s fitted with two Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak  Racks.

Kayak & Canoe Trips on Vancouver Island

Johnstone Strait

Location : Telegraph Cove, along the Johnstone Strait, is about 210 kilometres northwest of Campbell River. The community is home to about 20 residents and serves as a launch point for kayakers and whale watchers.

How to get there: Travel via road to Telegraph Cove and launch your kayak from there.

Description : One of the main reasons people kayak in Telegraph Cove is to spy orcas. This is a world-renowned spot to paddles amongst the whales and, in fact, was ranked as the No. 2 on the Lonely Planet’s top 10 list of Canadian adventures.

Distance : The strait itself is 110 kilometres long and between two-and-a-half and five kilometres wide.

Difficulty : Novice kayakers will need to go with a tour group. If you’re intending to cross the strait, know that it is defined as class four and meant for only the most experienced kayakers.

Quadra Island

Location : Quadra Island sits on the north end of the Salish Sea and is one of the dozen islands that make up the Discovery Archipelago. This island is the commercial hub and transportation centre for the residents and workers in the area.

How to get there : Start at Campbell River and take the ferry over.

Description : On Quadra Island, you’ll find stunning beaches and, looking over to Vancouver Island and the mainland, mountain peaks.

Distance : The island itself is about 35 kilometres from end to end, if you wish to paddle around the island or down one of its coasts.

Difficulty : The calm waters around Quadra Island make this place a paddler’s haven.

Denman & Hornby Islands

Location : These northern Gulf Islands are located in the calm waters of the Strait of Georgia, between mainland BC and Vancouver Island.

How to get there : To access Denman and Hornby Islands, you need to catch the ferry out of Buckley Bay, on Vancouver Island. You’ll get to Denman Island first, and a second ferry will take you over to Hornby Island.

Description : Situated in calm waters makes for ideal kayaking, and you’ll get a chance to spot a wide variety of wildlife, including whales, seals, sea lions and birds. Hornby Island offers spectacular white sand beaches.

Distance : If you’re looking to paddle around Hornby Island, the distance is about 25.5 kilometres. From Denman Island, you can paddle to Sandy Island Marine Provincial Park, three small islands known as the Seal Islets, Chrome Island or all the way to Hornby Island when the winds are calm.

Difficulty : In terms of ocean kayaking, paddling around these islands is relatively easy going.

Gabriola Island

Location : An island laying just off the coast of Nanaimo/Cedar, Vancouver Island.

How to get there : Take a 20-minute ferry ride from Nanaimo.

Description : Hidden coves, sandstone coastlines, rainforest, sea life and sandy bays are just some of the reasons paddlers gravitate to Gabriola Island. You can take in the majestic Malaspina Galleries, paddle to the Flat Top Islands off Silva Bay or over to DeCourcy Island and Pirates Cove Marine Park. There’s also Mudge Island and the Northumberland cliffs.

Distance : The island is about 14 kilometres long.

Difficulty : Paddling around Gabriola Island offers something for everyone – from calm waters and ventures to other islands, to more tricky trips, such as the Gabriola Passage at the island’s north end where the currents can run fast and create whirlpools and rip curls.

Location : The Salish Sea includes the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Strait of Georgia, Puget Sound and all of the surrounding channels and adjoining waters. There are also several small islands in this area.

How to get there : The Salish Sea stretches from Desolation Bay to Oakland Bay. You can access this area from Vancouver, Seattle, Tacoma, Bellingham, Port Angeles and Victoria.

Description : Kayaking the Salish Sea provides plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and take in the beautiful scenery. If you’re kayaking around the Gulf Islands, part of the Salish Sea group, this area offers a mild climate, sheltered waters and amazing scenery – perfect for kayakers of all levels.

Distance : The Salish Sea extends about 18,000 square kilometres around the southeast end of Vancouver Island.

Difficulty : According to the water classification map of BC waters, from the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC, the Salish Sea routes range from a class two to a class three, until you hit open ocean on the other side of the island. There are many tour groups that operate in this area.

D’Arcy Island

Location : D’Arcy Island is one of the southern most islands in the Gulf Islands group.

How to get there : There are several different location where you can launch your kayak, but the easiest and most direct route would be from Island View Regional Park in Saanich. However, this starting point will require you to cross open ocean for about six kilometres, so weather and skill will be a determining factor.

Description : D’Arcy Island attracts many paddlers, with its beautiful beaches, stunning Gulf Island scenery and sheltered campground. It also has a rich and interesting history.

Distance : About 36 kilometres from Island View Beach and back again.

Difficulty : Opposing current and wind conditions can create dangerous wave conditions. This paddle would not be for beginners.

Discovery Island

Location : South of Oak Bay and downtown Victoria.

How to get there : There are several put-in points, including Cattle Point, Willows Beach, Gyro Park and Telegraph Cove.

Description : Discovery Island is perfect for those looking for a quick paddle without going too far from home. There are also campgrounds available for an overnight stay. You’ll feel far away from the city, but be close to home.

Distance : Distances from the following points to Discovery Island: Cattle Point, 5.3 kilometres; Oak Bay Marina, 5.8 kilometres; Gyro Park, 6.98 kilometres; Telegraph Cove, 7.5 kilometres.

Difficulty : Although this paddling destination is close to the city, don’t be fooled – the currents in Baynes Channel can be strong and have stranded many an unprepared paddler over the years. Be sure of your skill and strength.

The Broken Group Islands

Location : This group of islands is located in Barkley Sound, between Ucluelet and Bamfield.

How to get there : Launch points include Toquart Bay, Bamfield and Ucluelet. You can also drive to Port Alberni and ride the MV Lady Rose to Sechart Lodge and launch from there. However, there is a cost to launch at the lodge.

Description : The Broken Islands offer something for everyone – from flat, calm waters on windless days between the islands, to challenging and potentially dangerous when you’re on the exposed waters when the swells are high. The islands each have campsites available, as well as sandy beaches that are sheltered from the roaring surf. There isn’t a lot of fresh water on the islands, so be sure to bring your own.

Distance : An example of distances from Toquart Bay to the islands: Hand Island, 8.5 kilometres; Dodd Island, 11.7 kilometres; Willis Island, 12.1 kilometres; Turret Island, 15.3 kilometres; Clarke Island, 14.1 kilometres; Gilbert Island, 16.9 kilometres; Gibralter Island, 14.1 kilometres.

Difficulty : Paddlers that don’t have a lot of experience will need to stay in the calm waters between the islands. Those looking for an adventure could travel to the ocean side of the group.

Vargas Island

Produced by  Tofinohiatus.com  – check out their site for more aerials and regional activities

Location : Vargas Island lies northwest of Tofino, Vancouver Island. 

How to get there : Put in at Tofino’s government wharf/First Street dock. 

Description : A relatively sheltered route that skirts along smaller islands, Vargas Island makes for a great weekend trip. It’s a short 3 kilometres to reach the island’s southeastern shoreline, which paddlers can then follow to the wide and sandy Ahous Bay. Wilderness camping is permitted, and facilities are limited to six pit toilets and five food caches. These are located on the northern end of the island. Grey whales often frequent the Ahous Bay area. Canoeing to Vargas is not encouraged.

Trip notes : A small wolf population resides on Vargas. While this should not dissuade visitors, you’re strongly encouraged to store food in the caches or hang from a tree, and advised against bringing pets. (Dogs are a high level attractant to wolves.)

Distance : A 3 kilometre paddle from Tofino to Vargas, however if you want to camp you’ll have to travel 8-10 kilometres further. Total round-trip: 20 km. 

Difficulty : This paddle is suitable for novices, and accessible in spring, summer and fall. 

Kayak & Canoe Trips in the Lower Mainland

False Creek

Location : Downtown Vancouver

How to get there : From the planetarium in Vancouver, drive to the Canadian Coast Guard station and there is a public parking lot near by. You can launch from the coast guard station.

Description : For those that don’t want to travel too far, False Creek offers an urban paddling experience. There’s always something new to see and a surprising amount of wildlife.

Distance : From the put-in location, your trip is about nine kilometres.

Difficulty : Paddling False Creek is great for beginners.

Location : Indian Arm and Indian Arm Provincial Park are located near Vancouver. The Indian Arm fjord is about 20 kilometres north of Burrand Inlet.

How to get there : There are several put-in points and areas to get out of the water, including Barnet Marine Park, Admiralty Point Beach, Belcarra Park, Deep Cove, Jug Island Beach, Racoon Island Beach, Twin Islands, Thwaytes Landing, Berg’s Landing and Granite Falls.

Description : Indian Arm is a popular destination for kayakers, offering amazing scenery, a sheltered fjord, a vibrant history and lots of areas to explore. You can paddle from the far end of the Arm at Barnet Marine Park to the top of the Arm at the Indian River estuary.

Distance : It’s 54 kilometres from Barnet Marine Park to the Indian River (paddling the entire length of the Arm.) From Deep Cove to the Granite Falls campground, it’s about 17 kilometres one way.

Difficulty : Although the fjord is sheltered and offers great paddling opportunities, kayakers need to be aware that there are not a lot of places to exit your kayak along the Arm – therefore, you need to plan your trip accordingly.

Location : The southern-most tip of Pitt Lake is situated about 40 kilometres east of downtown Vancouver. This is the second-largest lake in the lower mainland.

How to get there : To access the lake, you’ll need to park in the Grants Narrows Provincial Park.

Description : Pitt Lake offers beautiful scenery just outside the city. There are four provincial marine parks along the lake – at Raven Creek, Dark Creek, Osprey Creek South and Osprey Creek North. These areas offer camping. In the summer, Pitt Lake is a popular spot for power boaters, so expect to lose your peace and quiet.

Distance : The entire lake is 30 kilometres in length.

Difficulty : Although this is a lake on the lower mainland, and not the ocean, Pitt Lake is not always an easy paddle. Ocean tides force the water of the Fraser River and, in turn, the Pitt River, back into the lake and this creates a unique paddling experience – you’ll see seals in this freshwater environment and you’ll need to pull your boat above the high tide line. The lake is freezing cold and prone to high winds and downpours.

Kayaking & Canoe Trips in The Sunshine Coast

Desolation sound.

Location : Near Powell River and Lund.

How to get there : You can launch your kayak from either Lund Harbour or Okeover Harbour Government Docks.

Description : Located at the confluence of Malaspina Inlet and Homfray Channel, this is a boater and kayaker’s paradise. There are many islands and coves that make up the Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park, perfect for exploring. The water is warm and ideal for swimming or scuba diving and there are many campsites to extend your stay.

Distance : There’s more than 60 kilometres of shoreline to explore.

Difficulty: Desolation Sound is excellent for a kayaker with experience, but it is not extreme.

Powell Forest Canoe Route

Location: Near Powell River.  

How to get there: The Powell Forest Canoe Route can be tricky to get to. All lakes on the chain are accessible by logging roads. To start your journey, take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and then catch the next ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay. Once you land in Saltery Bay, drive another 10 kilometres and you’ll see the entrance sign on the right side of the road. This is the start of the route, Lois Lake.

Description: This hidden gem is known as one of the finest canoe trips in the province. Mountains, forest, wildlife – what more could you want? The best time to complete the route is from June to October, and there are campsites along the way. If you want to cut your trip short, you can choose only a few of the lakes to complete. Lakes along the route, in the proper order, include: Lois Lake, Horseshoe Lake, Nanton Lake, Ireland Lake, Dodd Lake, Windsor Lake, Goat Lake and Powell Lake.

Distance: The route is about 57 kilometres long, stretching across eight lakes. It takes the average paddler about five days.

Difficulty: The water is flat and the portage paths are clear and offer frequent rest stops along the way.

Skookumchuck Narrows

Location: Near the community of Egmont

How to get there: Take Egmont Road for about six kilometres, until you reach the parking lot. To reach the rapids, you’ll hike in past Brown Lake. You can also paddle out from Egmont.

Description: The Skookumchuck Narrows connect Sechelt and Jervis Inlets, and twice daily the tide changes and the flow of the saltwater will switch – this creates powerful rapids. For extreme kayakers, “the Skook is one of the great whitewater wonders of the world.”

Distance: It’ll take about two to four hours to paddle the Skookumchuck Narrows.

Difficulty: Low tide is good for intermediate kayakers, but higher tide attracts the extreme kayakers.

Copeland Islands

Location: Near Lund

How to get there: There is a launch site behind the Lund Hotel, but it can be busy with boat traffic in the summer months so take care.

Description: Located in the Copeland Islands Marine Park, there is a collection of islands, inlets with protected bays and a thriving ecosystem teaming with marine life. There are campsites along the way and several islands to explore.

Distance: An hour paddle north from Lund will have you at the first major island in the chain. You can paddle for the day, take a few days to explore or pass through on your way to Desolation Sound.

Difficulty: With calm weather, this is a relatively relaxing and easy paddle.

Kayak & Canoe Trips in Interior British Columbia

Lake koocanusa.

Location : East Kootenay, near Jaffray

How to get there : Take Highway 3 west from Fernie and turn south at Jaffray. Continue south to Kikomun Creek Provincial Park, which has a boat launch into the lake.

Description : With busy marinas and sandy shores, this calm, jade-coloured lake is a popular destination.

Distance : There is over 400 kilometres of international shoreline to explore.

Difficulty : More adventurous paddlers can run north up the lake to the mouth of the Kootenay River and visit the Kootenay Trout Hatchery. The waters are typically calm and offer a great one-day or multi-day paddling adventure.

Lower Elk River

Location : Near Fernie

How to get there : Take Highway 3 into Fernie

Description : The Lower Elk River provides gorgeous scenery and a heart-pounding experience. Rafting companies can lower their boats into the river, but kayakers will need to scramble down a steep path with the boat in hand. The biggest thrill, if that’s what you’re into, is known by the local kayakers as The Leap Of Faith – dropping down the Elk River Falls.

Distance : This is a day paddle at best.

Difficulty : The Lower Elk River is not for the inexperienced, or for the faint of heart.

Murtle Lake

Location : Murtle Lake is situated in the Wells Gray Provincial Park, within the Okanagan.

How to get there : You can get the Murtle Lake off Highway 5 at Blue River. You’ll drive about 27 kilometres down a gravel road to the parking lot. From there, take your canoe down the two-and-a-half-kilometre trail to the canoe launch.

Description : Murtle Lake is world famous, and known as the largest canoe-only lake in North America. Deep in an unspoiled mountain valley, there is a north arm and a west arm that are each about 20 kilometres long. The lake averages about three kilometres in width. The north arm runs into the Cariboo Mountains, while the west arm, the more popular of the two, offers sandy beaches, coves and three islands.

Distance : Murtle Lake boasts a total of 100 kilometres of shoreline.

Difficulty : Paddling on this glacier-fed lake is easy and rewarding, with stunning views. However, if you were to fall in, the lake is ice cold.

Kicking Horse River

Location : Near Golden

How to get there : The river is situated just outside Golden – you can’t miss it.

Description : If you’re looking for a hair-raising adventure, this is it. This glacial river runs through a deep canyon and contains the longest section of whitewater in the Canadian Rockies.

Distance : There are three sections – 10 kilometres, 12 kilometres and 10 kilometres – which can be done separately or together.

Difficulty : From class III to class V waters – for experienced paddlers only.

Thompson River Canyon

Location : Near Lytton

How to get there : Put-in locations for the Thompson River are along Highway 1 and at Spences Bridge.

Description : The Thompson is accessible all year, but the best time is during the late summer and early fall when the water levels are low. The higher the river, the more difficult your run will be.

Distance : The trip would take between two and five hours.

Difficulty : This river is identified as a class III, meaning not for an inexperienced kayaker.

Silver Springs Lakes

Location : In the Rockies, near Elko

How to get there : Take Highway 3, south of Fernie. Parking for the lake is outside Elko, on the Morrissey/Elko Haul Road.

Description : Close to civilization, but set in the wilderness, Silver Springs Lakes are known as hidden jewels. There are three sections of water that make up this group of lakes.

Distance : This is a day paddle.

Difficulty : The hardest part of this paddle is getting your canoe to the lake from the parking lot. It’s easy sailing from there.

Bowron Lakes

Location : Outside Quesnel

How to get there : From Quesnel, travel about 80 kilometres down Highway 26 and turn left at the well-marked turn off for Bowron Lakes. You’ll drive another 30 kilometres down a gravel road to the registration centre and park office for the lakes.

Description : The Bowron Lakes circuit has been rated as one of the Top 10 canoe trips in the world. You can travel through 116 kilometres without backtracking, and end up exactly where you started. The scenery is beautiful and a combination of water hazards to keep you on your toes.

Distance : The entire chain of lakes is 116 kilometres long and can be done in a few days. There’s a maximum time limit of 14 days to complete the circuit.

Difficulty : The circuit is not for a beginner, as it takes more than one day to complete, you need to be experienced in camping from a canoe or kayak and parts of the circuit contain swift-moving water.

Have you paddled on of these routes? Share your pictures with us: Tweet us  or tag us on Instagram  

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Canoeing and kayaking

Opportunities for canoeing and kayaking adventures are abundant across British Columbia. Famed for its rugged coastline, B.C. also offers paddlers everything from peaceful, crystalline lakes and rivers to challenging white-water rapids.

Click on these links for quick information on some of B.C.’s most popular canoeing and kayaking destinations:

Bowron Lake

Golden ears, e.c. manning, mount robson, babine river corridor.

Click on the links below for quick information on canoeing and kayaking opportunities in the following regions:

Lower Mainland

Vancouver island.

This page provides a sample of the canoeing and kayaking destinations in BC Parks, but there are plenty more. To see a full list, visit the find a park page and, under ‘activities’, filter by ‘canoeing’ and ‘kayaking’.

To learn more about any of the parks listed below, click your park’s name. This will take you to that park’s webpage, which includes all the information you will need for a successful trip.

Located 11km north of Maple Ridge, Golden Ears is a great place to enjoy the splendour of the Coast Mountains. Canoeing and kayaking are very popular on Alouette Lake, and rentals are available in the day-use area.

Just north of Harrison Hot Springs, Sasquatch Provincial Park features a series of pocket lakes and scenic mountain ridges. Hicks and Deer Lakes are ideal for canoeing and boating, with commercial canoe rentals available at both lakes.

Schoen Lake

Stretching 5km across a wilderness area 140km north of Campbell River, Schoen Lake offers excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. You can set in at a rough launching area next to the Schoen Lake campsite.

Canoeing and kayaking are popular on Buttle and Upper Campbell Lakes in Strathcona Provincial Park. Buttle Lake is subject to strong afternoon winds that may be very hazardous to small craft.

Located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, E.C. Manning Park sits within a three-hour drive from either Vancouver or the Okanagan. Lightning Lake is a popular spot for kayaking and especially for canoeing.

The entire Lightning Lakes chain is a peaceful area for non-motorized boating. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and small boats and set in from a car-top boat launch at the day-use area.

Bear Creek Provincial Park is a popular recreational area on the west side of Okanagan Lake. The park features kayak rentals, lakeside camping, and over 400m of sandy beaches.

Sun-Oka Beach  

Just south of Summerland, Sun-Oka Beach provides outstanding views down Okanagan Lake. All sorts of aquatic activities are popular in this park and kayak rentals are available.

A large wilderness area on western slopes of the Cariboo Mountains, Bowron Lake Park is world-renowned for its canoeing circuit. This encompasses a 116km chain of lakes, waterways, and connecting portages.

This full circuit takes between six and 10 days to complete, depending on your timeframe and skill level. If you are looking for a shorter trip, the west side of the circuit can be paddled in two-to-four days.

The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit is recommended only if you have some previous wilderness canoeing experience. The number of daily departures is restricted, to reduce environmental impacts, so you are strongly encouraged to book ahead.

To see more about the circuit and learn how to make a reservation, visit the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit reservations page.

Located about 20km southwest of 100 Mile House, Flat Lake Provincial Park features many small, interconnected lakes. The best way to explore this chain of lakes is by canoe.

Paddling the entire chain usually takes two days, but you can plan canoe trips of anywhere between one and three days. Kayaking is possible, but more tiring since portages are frequent.

Tweedsmuir South

Around 400km west of Williams Lake, Tweedsmuir South features the Turner Lake Canoe Circuit. This encompasses around 18km of lakes plus 2.5km of rivers, creeks, and short portages. The full circuit should take you three to five days.

This is an extremely remote area with snow possible any time of year. There is   no road access, so you must either hike in or charter a floatplane. The circuit is suitable only for experienced, physically fit, and well-equipped paddlers.

Moose Valley

This backcountry area, around 31km west of 100 Mile House, protects a chain of 12 small lakes. Paddling the Moose Valley Canoe Chain is the best way to explore the park. Camping is allowed, but no facilities are provided.

The Nazko Lake Canoe Chain is in northern Chilcotin Plateau, northwest of Alexis Creek. This 20km route spans six lakes, connected by some short portages. Vehicle-access campgrounds are available at Loomis and Deerpelt Lakes.

Accessible via Clearwater or 100 Mile House, Wells Gray offers excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Murtle Lake, Clearwater-Azure Marine, Mahood Lake, and the Corridor area are all ideal for paddlers.

Situated in a pristine mountain valley, Murtle Lake is world-famous as the largest canoe-only lake in North America. The north and west arms are approximately 20km long, and the lake averages three kilometres wide.

Once of BC Parks’ most popular destinations, Mount Robson Provincial Park is near the Alberta border and Jasper National Park. Moose, Yellowhead, and Whitney Lakes are mostly suitable for canoeing, but strong winds are common. 

Taweel Provincial Park is a remote, picturesque area 20km west of Little Fort. The area includes a large lake connected to smaller lakes by trails, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking.

This is a wilderness park, accessed via a gravel road. BC Parks provides no camping or day-use facilities. However, there are private resorts and cabins available along Taweel Lake.

Approximately 55km northwest of Kamloops, Bonaparte Plateau features many small lakes that are popular with canoeists and kayakers. This is a remote area where portages are not maintained, and only very rustic campsites are available.

Lac Le Jeune

An easily accessible getaway near Kamloops, Lac Le Jeune is renowned for its plateau lakes and rainbow trout fishery. Canoeing, boating, and camping are all available here.

Just a half-hour drive from Kamloops, Paul Lake offers a beautiful lakeshore campground and opportunities for canoeing and boating. The lake’s cool, clear waters make this an ideal spot for paddlers of all ability levels.

Located 36km southeast of Kamloops, Roche Lake Park is a backcountry area featuring seven lakes popular with canoeists and kayakers. The park is accessed via a gravel road and user-maintained campsites are available at two of the lakes.

Located on the west shore of Slocan Lake, northwest of Nelson, Valhalla Park is a premier destination for both Canoeists and Kayakers. Nine camping areas, many with sandy beaches are available. All are boat access only.

Gladstone  

Nestled in the Monashee Mountains, Gladstone is 20km northeast of Grand Forks. The warm, clear water of Christina Lake is ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The park includes numerous sandy beaches that are accessible only by boat.

Kikomun Creek  

Situated around 40km southwest of Fernie, Kikomun Creek is a great spot for canoeing and boating. Canoeists are welcome at Surveyors Lake, and rentals are available. There is a year-round boat launch at Lake Koocanusa.

The Babine River Corridor is an 85km stretch north of Smithers. It is a world-renowned rafting and kayaking area, with rapids that can be extremely treacherous. Guided trips are available through local rafting companies.

Stuart Lake  

The Stuart-Trembleur-Takla Lake boating system is in north-central British Columbia. It comprises nearly 300km of waterways across long, narrow lakes that are among the region’s most significant.

Carp Lake  

Located 141km northwest of Prince George, Carp Lake Provincial Park is a popular area for canoeing, kayaking, and backcountry camping. Rough water is common on the lake, so avoid going out in high winds and always wear a lifejacket.

Finger-Tatuk  

Around 115km southwest of Prince George, Finger Tatuk has a series of beautiful lakes providing opportunities for canoeing or kayaking. Paddlers can stay at rustic backcountry campsites in the park.

Huchsduwachsdu Nuyem Jees / Kitlope Heritage Conservancy  

Sitting on the Central Coast, 50km northwest of Kitimat, this conservancy offers great river and lake canoeing and kayaking. The area is accessed by motorboat, so visitors must be experienced in ocean navigation and wilderness survival.

Kleanza Creek

Hidden among the forests and rock canyons of the Coast Mountains, Kleanza Creek is a gem for experienced backcountry paddlers. Whitewater kayaking opportunities offer extraordinary adventures, when approached with caution.

Lakelse Lake

Situated in the Skeena River Watershed, Lakelse Lake is surrounded by the mountains of the Kitimat range. Canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing are all popular activities in this park. 

Tā Ch’ilā [a.k.a. Boya Lake]

Boya Lake in Tā Ch’ilā Provincial Park is perfect for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. Many islands and bays are waiting for you to explore. Canoe and kayak rentals are available.

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Kayak recovered, search continues for men reported missing off Vancouver Island

By Hana Mae Nassar

Posted April 22, 2024 11:58 am.

Police in the U.S. say a kayak belonging to two men reported missing off the coast of Vancouver Island over the weekend has been found near the San Juan Islands.

The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office says the kayak was recovered on Sunday.

“Personnel from the San Juan County Sheriff’s office, used the sheriffs, boat, and drone to search the areas along the west side of Henry Island around to the southside in open bay where the kayak was recovered. The drone was deployed and searched around Stewart Island as well,” the department said in a social media update Sunday night.

“Sheriffs’ personnel also searched around Speiden Island and were unable to locate any signs of the missing kayakers. Canadian authorities were contacted and updated with the results of our efforts to search for the missing kayakers. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the kayakers and their families and are hopeful that they are located and found.”

The North Saanich RCMP says 36-year-old Daniel MacAlpine and 26-year-old Nicholas West were last known to be kayaking between D’arcy Island and Island View Beach in Central Saanich on Saturday around 2 p.m.

They were travelling from the island to the beach in a teal blue fibreglass, two-person kayak.

Police are asking anyone with any information about the missing men to call the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at 250-656-3931.

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