Whistler Canoe, Kayak and Stand Up Paddleboard Tours

  • Whistler is surrounded by many lakes and rivers, waiting to be explored on a tour or with a rental watercraft
  • Drink in magnificent mountain views and watch for abundant wildlife as you paddle
  • Choose your own adventure from gentle excursions on calm lake water to extended river trips
  • Learn to use different watercraft including canoes, kayaks and stand up paddleboards (SUP)

On the Water in Whistler

Tour Description Price
Whistler Canoe and Kayak Self-Guided Tours Explore the unique water ecosystems of the mountains from the lakes to the famous River of Golden Dreams From $120 per person
Voyageur Canoe Tour Let an adventure guide steer the 8 passenger Voyageur Canoe around beautiful Alta Lake From $135 per person
Whistler Canoe and Kayak Guided Tours Explore the unique water ecosystems of the mountains from the lakes to the famous River of Golden Dreams From $185 per person
Canoe, Kayak, Pedal Boat and SUP Rentals In Whistler you can rent a watercraft of your choice and explore to your hearts content. From $95 per half day

River of Golden Dreams

The River of Golden Dreams is a popular canoe, kayak and SUP route that links Alta Lake and Green Lake. The five-kilometre waterway is one of Whistler’s iconic experiences and fun for all the family. Along the route you can see lush wetlands, old growth forest and views of the surrounding mountains. Keep your eyes open for beavers, eagles, osprey, river otter, black bears and plenty of birds.

Put in at Rainbow Park on Alta Lake Road, at Lakeside Park, or at the end of Lorimer Road, and pull out anywhere en route to the dock by the Valley Trail at the end of Golden Bear Place, Nicklaus North.

Water Safety Tips:

  • Inflatable water toys are not recommended as they can deflate or capsize and be left behind as litter.
  • Water levels can change rapidly based on rain and snow melt events in the watershed - paddle with care and learn more about the river conditions here.
  • Obey all signs on the waterway, including portages. Be prepared for self-rescue and never travel alone.
  • According to Transport Canada regulations users on the River of Golden Dreams must have personal safety items such as PFD, buoyant heaving line and a whistle or sound signalling device
  • See the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide for more information

Whistler Eco Tours

Backroads Whistler

Two people in kayaks paddling down the River of Golden Dreams on a tour in Whistler

Exploring Whistler's River of
Golden Dreams

Weave your way through five kilometres of lush, wildlife-abundant wetlands as you navigate Whistler’s River of Golden Dreams.

Paddleboarding on Alpha Lake

Whistler Summer Itinerary:
On the Water

Where will you find Whistler locals on a summer day? On, in and around the water. With lakes, beaches and water craft for hire, you can play too.

Save up to 20% Whistler Summer Activities

Summer Activities
Save up to 15%

Book now and experience the best savings on Whistler's most popular summer activities.


Photos of Paddling Lakes and Rivers