River Report
A Paddling Paradise
River of Golden Dreams
Guided or Unguided Canoe and Kayak Tours
Hop in a canoe, kayak or double kayak and get ready to explore Whistler’s famous River of Golden Dreams. With epic views around every bend, the River of Golden Dreams features lush, old growth forest and wildflower-lined banks, as well as stunning snow-capped mountain vistas. Let experienced guides give you paddling tips while sharing their knowledge of Whistler’s fascinating history, geography and wildlife – or head out on a solo tour.
at 604-932-3111
At the end of your scenic excursion, you can choose to have Backroads shuttle you back to your Whistler accommodations, or back to Lakeside Park. This is truly a trip you don't want to miss and one of Whistler's original and most popular summer activities. You can’t say you’ve been to Whistler until you’ve paddled the River of Golden Dreams.
at 604-932-3111
Guided River of Golden Dreams Tour
Our guides are instructors too and will teach you paddling techniques and skills that you will enjoy on the river and in the future, wherever else you paddle. Additionally you’ll learn about our bears, how big, how many and what they like to eat and what other critters we have. Who were the first settlers and how did they live? A Guided tour will allow you to learn more about Whistler and the iconic River of Golden Dreams while improving your kayaking or canoeing skills.
| Departures | Daily: 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m.; Reservations required |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate (depends on water level and experience) |
| Includes | Return shuttle bus, boat, paddle, and personal flotation device |
| Duration | 3 hours, fully guided |
| Rate Specials |
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at 604-932-3111
Self-Guided River of Golden Dreams Tour
Orientation sessions are available prior to your departure and it is recommended that all guests attend. It is suggested that participants be competent paddlers, though. To better enjoy your paddle down the River of Golden Dreams, it’s best if you have river-canoeing experience before signing up for a self-guided trip.
| Departures | Daily: Anytime until 4:00 p.m. (Please Pre-Book) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate (depends on water level and experience) |
| Includes | Return shuttle bus, boat, paddle, and personal flotation device |
| Duration | 3 hours, unguided |
| Rate Specials |
|
at 604-932-3111
Your canoe or kayak adventure begins at the Lakeside Park Watersports Centre on beautiful Alta Lake. Take advantage of Backroads’ free parking at the lake, or give us a call and we can arrange to pick you up from your Hotel. Once there, you’ll be fitted with lifejackets and paddles. Orientation sessions are available and it is recommended that all guests attend, prior to their departure. In addition to the Watersports Centre, Lakeside Park offers barbecue stands, children’s play areas and public washrooms, plus docks for swimming and sunbathing.
You may want to bring a light snack, although our concession stand does sell ice cream, novelties and other snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a warm sweater or light jacket, as mountain weather changes quickly. Backroads Whistler operates rain or shine though, and provides complimentary warm clothing and rain gear. Don’t forget to bring your camera, so you have lots of pictures from your canoe or kayak adventure.
Although orientation sessions are available, it is recommended that guests wanting to take self-guided or solo tours should be competent paddlers.
Dates of operation
| April 25 to May 14 | We are open by request. |
| May 15 to June 6 | Our concession is open weekends 10 am to 2 pm and mid week weather permitting. Please call in advance to let us know you are coming. 604-932-3111 |
| June 12 to September 6 | Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. every day |
| September 7 to October 15 | We offer full weekend operations and mid-week upon request, please call 604-932-3111. Early morning and evening fishing boats are available upon request. |
Pricing
Group rates upon request.
Cancellations
A credit card number is required at time of booking. All reservations are subject to a $25.00 per person cancellation fee. Reservations cancelled within 48 hours of the tour and "no shows" are subject to the full tour price.
For details or to book please call 604-932-3111.
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