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

Stand Up Paddleboarding, Canoeing & Kayaking Tours

People enjoying stand up paddleboards, canoes and kayaks on a calm lake in Whistler.

Canoe, Kayak, Pedal Boat & SUP Rentals
Explore Whistler's beautiful lakes at your own pace with canoe, kayak, pedal boat or stand up paddleboard rentals.

  • From $100 per half day
  • Choose from canoes, kayaks, pedal boats or SUPs
  • Self-guided adventure on Whistler's scenic lakes
  • Suitable for individuals, couples and families
  • Great way to experience Whistler from the water
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Canoes and kayaks on Alta Lake with mountain views near Rainbow Park in Whistler.

Alta Lake Self-Guided & Guided Tours
Paddle across beautiful Alta Lake while taking in spectacular mountain scenery. Choose from a private guided tour, a guided group experience or explore independently with a self-guided rental.

  • From $110 per person
  • Available as private, group or self-guided tours
  • Learn about Whistler's history, geography, flora and fauna
  • Beautiful views from Rainbow Park and Alta Lake
  • Self-guided option requires prior paddling experience
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Guests canoeing through the River of Golden Dreams surrounded by lush vegetation in Whistler.

Guided River of Golden Dreams Tour
Paddle one of Whistler's most iconic waterways, beginning on Alta Lake before drifting through the peaceful River of Golden Dreams with an expert guide.

  • From $205 per person
  • Guided canoe tour suitable for most experience levels
  • Learn basic paddling techniques from experienced guides
  • Explore wetlands rich with wildlife, water lilies and lush forests
  • Discover Whistler's history, flora and fauna along the journey
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* Please note tours are weather dependent and subject to change.

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

The accessible features listed above have been self-identified by the individual business or operator. For specific questions, or assistance with booking, please contact one of our Whistler-based Travel Consultants directly at 1.800.944.7853, or via email at reservations@whistler.com.

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

On the Water
in Whistler

The Whistler Insider takes a deep dive into water-based adventures in Whistler. From canoeing and kayaking to SUP, rafting and swimming – we cover it all.

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Mountain bikers descend a rugged alpine trail on Whistler Mountain at golden hour, with gondola cabins suspended above forested slopes and the rewardsbywhistler.com logo in the corner, capturing the thrill of Whistler’s world-class mountain biking..

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Photos of Paddling Lakes and Rivers