"Kootenay" Is paddler slang for "Awesome".
Everyone is familiar with the Rocky Mountains in Canada, but did you know they are only one of four major mountain ranges in the Kootenay Rockies region? Between the Purcell, Monashee, Selkirk, and western Rocky Mountains, are a variety of valleys boasting innumerable lakes and rivers offering every type of paddling experience. Its headwaters of the mighty Columbia River are located in the area of BC, near Fairmont Hot Springs, and flow north past Golden before veering south and running all the way to the Pacific Ocean in Oregon. Whether your preference is paddling big rivers or kayak fishing on lakes for Kokanee salmon, the Kootenay Rockies region is guaranteed to float your boat.
Participating communities from Kootenay Rockies
Explore pockets of this region by way of specific communities. Get info on the waterways in or near them and meet local paddling professionals.
Cranbrook
Calm lakes or thrilling rapids. Paddle serenity or adventure in the Kootenays! The rivers and lakes that surround Cranbrook are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater paddling. Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the uncrowded lakes are perfect for relaxation while calm waters of the valley provide opportunities to dip your paddle in crystal clear waters. Relax lakeside at St.Mary’s, Moyie, and Rock Lake or navigate class 4 and 5 rapids on the Elk, Bull, and St. Mary rivers.
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Fernie
The Elk River snakes its way past this community and the Bull River flows nearby. As their names suggest, the paddling here is wild.
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Nelson Kootenay Lake
Kootenay Lake is one of the best kept secrets in British Columbia. It offers stunning views of both the Selkirk and Purcell mountains, there are plenty of secluded beaches to explore, and the fishing is off the hook.
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Columbia Valley
The Columbia Valley in British Columbia, Canada is a paradise for water lovers offering a diverse array of flat and flowing waterways to explore. Paddlers will find opportunities for stand up paddle-boarding, kayaking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and fishing on one of the many lakes and rivers between Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Panorama, Fairmont Hot Springs and Canal Flats. Grab your paddle, and let’s get going!
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Arrow Lakes & Slocan Valley
Arrow Slocan – explore beyond the boundaries. Dig deeper, get to know us. A place to slow down and take it all in. This is an exceptionally laid back part of the world. Simply unplug or set out to rekindle the adventurous spirit. Spend more than a moment, stay more than a night, be called here for a lifetime.
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Castlegar
Discover the little city at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia rivers. And try the borscht.
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Golden
Golden is perfectly named because the paddling experiences here are worth their weight in, well, you know.
ExploreExplore more paddling opportunities in the area.
Elk River
Fernie offers excellent kayaking, canoeing and rafting adventures. From float trips to exciting whitewater, the Elk River and its tributaries offer a wealth of adrenaline, wildlife and relaxation.
ExploreMeet the specialists Kootenay Rockies
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
I want to go
on a(n)
Alpine Rafting
Alpine Rafting is located in Golden BC on the famous and beautiful Kicking Horse River.
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Alpine Rafting is located in Golden BC on the famous and beautiful Kicking Horse River.
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Apex Rafting
30+ years of Rafting in Revelstoke! Consistent Ownership since Day 1, fantastic rafting and a commitment to superior customer service keeps Apex Rafting top rated on Google, Facebook and Trip Advisor. 26 km of rafting with up to Class 3+ Rapids(Class 4 at high flows) Price also includes Rafting Trip Photos and fresh fruit & pastries. Hot Tub/Sauna available.
Canyon Raft Company
Located in Fernie BC the Canyon Raft Company offers anything from scenic floats to whitewater rafting, making it suitable for all.
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Castlegar Sculpturewalk
The Castlegar Sculpturewalk transforms downtown Castlegar into a vibrant outdoor art gallery, showcasing an exciting collection of contemporary sculptures by both local and international artists. This annual exhibition invites visitors to explore the city through the lens of public art, with each piece offering a unique perspective and creative expression. As you stroll through the walkable downtown core, don’t forget to vote for your favourite sculpture—the winner of the People’s Choice Award earns a permanent place in the city’s growing art collection.
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Columbia River Paddle
Explore Lake Windermere and the Columbia River through rentals and guided tours. Discover diverse wildlife and enjoy family-friendly paddling adventures.
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Explore Lake Windermere and the Columbia River through rentals and guided tours. Discover diverse wildlife and enjoy family-friendly paddling adventures.
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Columbia Wetlands Outpost
Explore the stunning Columbia Wetlands with self-guided rentals and unique accommodations for special occasions.
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Explore the stunning Columbia Wetlands with self-guided rentals and unique accommodations for special occasions.
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Edge of the World
Edge of the World offers a wide range of snowboarding, skateboarding, paddleboarding, streetwear, and goods in Fernie, BC.
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Edge of the World offers a wide range of snowboarding, skateboarding, paddleboarding, streetwear, and goods in Fernie, BC.
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Endless Adventure
Endless Adventures offers a variety of different watersports options for everyone to try out.
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Endless Adventures offers a variety of different watersports options for everyone to try out.
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Endless Adventures offers a variety of different watersports options for everyone to try out.
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Endless Adventure – SUP Sturgeon Search
Endless Adventure offers thrilling rafting tours, kayak courses, paddleboard rentals, team building programs, and more in the beautiful Slocan Valley of British Columbia.
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FAR OUT GEAR RENTALS
Far Out Gear Rentals offers a wide range of outdoor adventure rentals and tours, including biking and paddling equipment. Explore BC’s stunning waterways and trails with our top-quality gear.
Learn More FAR OUT GEAR RENTALS
Far Out Gear Rentals offers a wide range of outdoor adventure rentals and tours, including biking and paddling equipment. Explore BC’s stunning waterways and trails with our top-quality gear.
Learn More FAR OUT GEAR RENTALS
Far Out Gear Rentals offers a wide range of outdoor adventure rentals and tours, including biking and paddling equipment. Explore BC’s stunning waterways and trails with our top-quality gear.
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Float Golden
Float Your Way offers affordable paddle board rentals in Golden with door-to-door delivery. Choose your adventure and book online now!
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GearHub Sports
Discover quality paddle gear and apparel at GearHub. Find everything you need for your next adventure.
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Discover quality paddle gear and apparel at GearHub. Find everything you need for your next adventure.
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Glacier Raft Company
Go whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River with Goldens original rafting company, Glacier Raft Co.
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Go whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River with Goldens original rafting company, Glacier Raft Co.
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Golden Paddle
Golden Paddle provides many different watersports rentals for their guests.
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Golden River Adventures
At Golden River Adventures try something new with their inflatable kayak rentals and create your own adventure.
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At Golden River Adventures try something new with their inflatable kayak rentals and create your own adventure.
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Hellman Canoe and Kayak
Hellman Canoes and Kayaks, based in Nelson, BC, crafts high-quality, custom-made canoes and kayaks designed for adventure and durability. Founded by passionate paddler Bob Hellman, this Canadian-owned business offers personalized watercraft for recreational and wilderness paddling, available at their specialized shop.
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Hydra River Guides
Hydra River Guides offers many different activities, whether it’s a fast paced rafting trip or a gentle canoe ride they have it all.
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Just Liquid Sports
Explore a wide range of outdoor gear, from apparel to safety and rescue equipment.
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Explore a wide range of outdoor gear, from apparel to safety and rescue equipment.
Learn More Just Liquid Sports
Explore a wide range of outdoor gear, from apparel to safety and rescue equipment.
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Kaslo Kayaking
Explore the beauty of Kootenay Lake with Kaslo Kayaking – offering kayak tours, rentals, lessons, and more in the stunning BC mountain town of Kaslo.
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Explore the beauty of Kootenay Lake with Kaslo Kayaking – offering kayak tours, rentals, lessons, and more in the stunning BC mountain town of Kaslo.
Learn More Kaslo Kayaking
Explore the beauty of Kootenay Lake with Kaslo Kayaking – offering kayak tours, rentals, lessons, and more in the stunning BC mountain town of Kaslo.
Learn More Kaslo Kayaking
Explore the beauty of Kootenay Lake with Kaslo Kayaking – offering kayak tours, rentals, lessons, and more in the stunning BC mountain town of Kaslo.
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Kokanee Creek Paddle Sports
Explore BC’s scenic waterways with kayak, canoe & paddle board rentals at Friends Beach, Kokanee Creek & Davis Creek Campground. Affordable rates!
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Kokanee Park Marina
Kokanee Park Marina is your one-stop-shop for all things outdoor adventure in beautiful Kootenay Lake’s North Shore. From boat repairs to marina services, camping supplies to rentals, we’ve got everything you need to explore the waterways and beyond.
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Kootenay Raft Co Rafting and Rentals
Kootenay Raft Co. offers thrilling rafting adventures in the Kootenays. Family-friendly trips, rentals, and custom group outings available.
Learn More Kootenay Raft Co Rafting and Rentals
Kootenay Raft Co. offers thrilling rafting adventures in the Kootenays. Family-friendly trips, rentals, and custom group outings available.
Learn More Kootenay Raft Co Rafting and Rentals
Kootenay Raft Co. offers thrilling rafting adventures in the Kootenays. Family-friendly trips, rentals, and custom group outings available.
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Kootenay River Runners
Kootenay River Runners is perfect for adventurous visitors to experience guided whitewater rafting trips down the mighty Kicking Horse River.
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Kootenay River Runners: Golden
Kootenay River Runners in Golden BC explores the mighty Kicking Horse River.
Learn More Kootenay River Runners: Golden
Kootenay River Runners in Golden BC explores the mighty Kicking Horse River.
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Nelson Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals
Rent paddleboards and kayaks in Nelson for fun workouts or leisurely paddling on beautiful waterways.
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Outdoor Recreation Council of BC
ORCBC advocates for responsible outdoor recreation in BC, promoting access to nature for all.
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River Runner
Experience the best rafting in Western Canada with Kootenay River Runners. Offering whitewater rafting adventures in the Purcell & Rocky Mountains since 1976.
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Experience the best rafting in Western Canada with Kootenay River Runners. Offering whitewater rafting adventures in the Purcell & Rocky Mountains since 1976.
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Roam Adventures
Explore the rivers and experience beautiful mountain views while adventuring with Roam Adventures.
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ROAM Shop
ROAM Shop, a Nelson, BC-based outfitter, specializes in water sports gear for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Since 2004, this locally owned store has offered top-quality equipment and expert service for unforgettable paddling adventures in the Kootenay’s.
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Scotties Marina
Scotties Marina offers a scenic waterfront vacation rental suite, moorage, fuel, fishing derby, and kayak/paddle board rentals on the pristine Lower Arrow Lake.
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Smiling Otter
Experience nature’s tranquility in Slocan BC with canoe, kayak & SUP rentals since 1998.
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Tunnel49
Tunnel49 is a rafting company that offers a variety of different tours including calmer trips or more adventurous ones.
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Tunnel49 is a rafting company that offers a variety of different tours including calmer trips or more adventurous ones.
Learn More Tunnel49
Tunnel49 is a rafting company that offers a variety of different tours including calmer trips or more adventurous ones.
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Valhalla Pure – New Denver
Explore over 450 brands and find great deals on paddlesports gear. Shop now!
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Wet n Wild Adventures
Experience thrilling rafting trips down the Kicking Horse River with Wet n Wild Adventures.
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Experience thrilling rafting trips down the Kicking Horse River with Wet n Wild Adventures.
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Wet Willy’s Paddleboard and Kayak Rental
We have a variety of blow up paddle boards, hard paddle boards and kayaks. We are open most sunny/nice days throughout the summer.
Learn More Wet Willy’s Paddleboard and Kayak Rental
We have a variety of blow up paddle boards, hard paddle boards and kayaks. We are open most sunny/nice days throughout the summer.
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Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures: Revelstoke
Become a "River Pirate" on a whitewater rafting tour with Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures.
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Wild Water Adventures
Wild Water Adventures offers top-quality whitewater rafting trips on the Kicking Horse River since 1992.
Learn MoreRoad Trips in Kootenay Rockies
Learn more about paddling in Kootenay Rockies
Oar-ganize Your Year
Whatever type of paddling you prefer, here are the events you’ll want to take part in around the region.
These waters are calm, make a splash by submitting your event, or check out our full events calendar.
Paddle Between Peaks: An East Kootenay Road Trip Itinerary
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The Best Whitewater Rafting in British Columbia
The Kicking Horse is only one of many whitewater experiences that make British Columbia one of the best rafting destinations in the world.
