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About Us

Offering adventure in Whistler since 1985, Backroads is Whistlers only exclusive boat rental operator

Why Backroads Whistler?

As Whistlers only exclusive boat rental operator we are able to provide the best quality experience to our guests

Backroads Whistler is the longest running Canoe and Kayak operator in Whistler, providing service since 1985. We operate exclusively in lake rentals and guided or self-guided tours down the River of Golden Dreams. This allows us to keep focus on what is important for our guests and provide them with the best paddling experience in the valley.

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Operating out of Lakeside park on Alta Lake, we offer a great variety of equipment that is suitable for all age/skill levels and a great area to enjoy the summer sun by the lake. Whether you are relaxing by the lakeside or splashing around on our rental fleet, we would love to have you join us this summer!

Experience

Offering adventure in Whistler since 1985

Certified

Whistler's only certified canoe and kayak guides.

Stewardship

Stewards of the river to preserve its natural beauty and ecosystem.

Equipment

Light, high quality canoes and kayaks

Compliance

Transport Canada marine compliant.

get ready


for summer adventure!

History

In the early 1900s when Whistler was known as Alta Lake, Rainbow Lodge was the premier fishing resort west of the Rocky Mountains. Guests would come in great numbers just to experience the incomparable summer hiking, swimming, fishing and boat trips down the River of Golden Dreams.

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To this day, the river has remained one of Whistler’s unspoiled jewels. Little to no development has occurred on its riverbanks, lending a great opportunity for resort guests to see how Whistler balances its human development while preserving nature.

The river is alive with fish and critters such as beaver and mink playing in the water. The riverbanks are lined with wildflowers and birds that burst off the water in front of your boat and dart across your path from tree to tree. If you look up you’re likely to see an osprey or bald eagle soaring high overhead with the glacier-capped mountain peaks in the background.

If you stay on the lake, most guests go out for an hour. Alta Lake remains a summer paradise for recreation. It is primarily a non-powered recreational lake (no water skiing or wakeboarding); so there is no noise from engines, smoke on the water or oil slicks. In fact, Alta Lake is much like it was back in the 1900s.

We have a variety of boats specifically designed for the water ways you’ll be paddling on. Quality equipment and great staff. Yes, Life Jackets are included. The views of the ski hills and surrounding mountains is spectacular. And yes if you are just over an hour no problem we’ll prorate your time so you only pay for time used.

Step back in time and join our adventure for a day, a week or a lifetime and make your stay in Whistler an unforgettable experience.

We hope to see you soon.

Eric Wight ~ Owner, Backroads Whistler

Testimonials

"It was a fun and relaxing experience. We didn't used the guided tour. The water level was pretty low so there were sections needed to carry the canoe over logs and sandbars. I would say there was part of the fun experience. The staff was very friendly and professional during the pre-trip orientation and pack-up service at the end of the river. I would recommend this tour to anyone has some outdoor experience."

Burnaby, British Columbia Humphrey M - TripAdvisor

"This is a beautiful experience to do with the whole family. We were two adults and one child. I say it's safe yet you have to be prepared to get in the cold glacier water from time to time to push or pull the Canoe. The river is really beautiful and the stream was very gentle and slow on the day we did it. Obviously the experience can be different depending on the water level situation. The guides were nice and friendly."

North Vancouver, British Columbia tiranbe - TripAdvisor

"I really enjoyed my time canoeing across Alta like and down the river of golden dreams with Backroads"

Vancouver, British Columbia amac3716 - TripAdvisor

"Rented Kayaks, friendly knowledgeable staff! Reasonable rental prices. We had a wonderful time kayaking on beautiful Alta Lake, highly recommend renting from Backroad Whistler."

Chilliwack, British Columbia christina6425 - TripAdvisor

"The self guided canoeing trip down the river of golden dreams was a lot of fun. We had 2 canoes with 3 people in each. It was a beautiful day and very quiet. There were many beaver dams to go over so I don’t recommend using an inflatable."

Princeton, British Columbia Natalie - TripAdvisor

Our awesome crew

We are a family owned business and have provided the best quality of service to all our guests since 1985
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Backroads Whistler has a 4.5 star Tripadvisor traveller rating.