FAQ's

Where is Backroads Whistler located?

Backroads Whistler is located in beautiful Lakeside Park on the shores of Alta Lake, just minutes south of Whistler Village. When exiting the village onto highway 99, turn south toward Vancouver, pass under the traffic lights at "Blueberry" and make your next right on Hillcrest Dr. There is a sign at the intersection that says "Alta Vista and 'Lakeside Park". Follow the signs to Lakeside Park.

See the Contact Us page for a map and details.

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Do you offer group discounts?

Yes, Backroads offers group discounts. If you are prepared to gather a group of friends together for some fun, we are prepared to provide you with the benefits of your patronage.

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Do you offer discounts for kids or seniors?

Children (under 12) 50% off when traveling with two adults on the River of Golden Dreams.

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What is included in a tour?

All equipment and a free shuttle (if required) are included in a tour package. This includes equipment such as life jackets, paddles and rain gear. Backroads Whistler has by far the best fleet in the valley.

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How long does it take to get to the lake?

>Where appropriate, the Backroads Whistler complimentary shuttle service is offered. The following times are a general guideline based on driving time:

• 4 minutes to the water front

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Do you offer custom or special tours?

Backroads Whistler has provided customized experiences and memories ever since we started in 1985. We have refined our list of activities to what most of our customers do most of the time. With notice we are happy to adjust itineraries and plan adventurous unique tours with you.

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Do your trips operate in wet weather?

Certainly! Mountain weather can bring squalls followed by radiant sunshine. Canoe / kayaking down the river in the rain is a very fun experience. Remember the song "Rain drops keep falling on my head..."? You'll think you're crazy but once you're out in the rain you will be loving life.

We are prepared for all kinds of weather. Backroads provides, free of charge, the waterproof jackets necessary to keep you dry and warm clothing to keep you toasty.

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What if I can't swim?

All our guests are provided with life jackets that are approved by the Canadian Department of Transportation. In the unlikely event that you should fall in the water our jackets will bring you to the surface. Our guides are trained in boat handling and safety as well as some that are trained life guards and instructors in these types of sports

Please let our staff know before departure if you or anyone else going on the trip cannot swim.

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Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included in the tours. Please bring some snacks and water with you. You will be doing physical exercise and most likely will appreciate the snacks and water. This is especially important if you have young children with you.

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What if I haven't been in a canoe or kayak before?

Hiring one of our guides will get you straight in the canoe or kayak and quickly up the learning curve. Backroads offers tours and instruction for all abilities.

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Why should I hire a guide?

Many people ask us this question, especially given that nature is out there and ready to be explored if you have the equipment. The best thing about guides is that they know all the secret spots in the Whistler mountains, rivers and forests - like finding that hidden beaver lodge or quiet secluded lunch spot with great views. If you just want to relax and enjoy your tour they can explain what you're seeing.

If you want to challenge your skills or improve your paddling they can turn from guide to instructor. This is especially true for our river trips. Have you ever been on a lake and the wind comes up only to find you're going the wrong way or can't keep the boat into the wind? Our instructors will teach you how to steer the boat so this is never a problem again. You'll remember this for the rest of your life.

Our guides are first aid certified, certified in their sports and carry industrial quality VHF portable radios should we require assistance.

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Do I need a guide?

Do you have some paddling experience? If not you need a guide. Do you find that when you are paddling on a lake you get blown around in the wind? Yes you need a guide. Our guides will teach you paddling techniques that you will enjoy on the river and wherever you may paddle. Little or no paddling experience - Yes you need a guide. Family with small children – Yes you need a guide. Should you complete your guided tour and feel that the guide did not represent value, we will not charge you for the guide.

"I am so glad you recommended the guide for us. It really made the tour special” is the feedback we regularly receive from guests!

Click here for rates

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What should I bring to go canoeing or kayaking?

Depending on the weather and activity we recommend

1. Short sleeve t-shirts
2. Short pants
3. Comfortable shoes
4. Suntan lotion
5. Sunglasses
6. A hat
7. A camera.

As mountain weather changes quickly a warm sweater or wind shell and shell pants are a good idea. Food is not included in the tours unless prearranged so consider bringing a light snack and some water.

Learn more about our Canoeing and Kayaking Tours.

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Do I have to paddle back up the river?

No. You do not! When you get to the end of the River of Golden Dreams, we have a shuttle bus to take you back to Lakeside Park or Whistler Village.

Learn more about our River of Golden Dreams Tours.

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Dates of operation

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How do I get to Whistler?

By Plane, from Vancouver: Contact Whistler Air ( 604-932-6615) and fly in style in a float plane and be here in 30 minutes.

By Rental Car, from Vancouver: Drive on Highway 99 North to Squamish/Whistler. Pass through Squamish and head on up to Whistler. Distance 142kms. Duration: 1hr 40mins. Try Hertz or Thrifty car rental services.

By Bus / Taxi / Limousine: There are a variety of bus lines and limousine services which operate from the city and the airport, which can drop you off at the bus loop in the center of Whistler Village. Sometimes a limousine is cheaper than a bus if you are traveling in groups of 5 or greater.