British Columbia boasts more than 20,000 lakes from the well-known, such as the Bowron Lakes canoe circuit, to the innumerable alpine lakes that dot the 10 major mountain ranges in the province and the long bodies of water in the valleys between them. There are remote adventures awaiting on the lakes of such regions as Northern BC and the Kootenay Rockies as well as easy-to-access waters beside wineries, hot springs, and quaint communities. Whether you’re looking for a casual afternoon paddle or a multi-day circuit, BC lakes are sure to float your boat.
Discover some of BC’s best lakes.
If you want to explore part of the trail or test your stamina and paddle the whole trail, it’s up to you, but be sure to bring a waterproof camera and take in the beautiful sights from the water.
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Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of British Columbia’s Cascade Mountains, Kawkawa Lake is a former provincial park and offers exploration and fishing by canoe, kayak or paddleboard.
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This is where the largest Kokanee fish in the world was caught. Need we say more?
The origin of the name was a cultural feature known as Arrow Rock on the east shore of Lower Arrow Lake, about 35 km upstream from Castlegar, opposite the community of Renata, a large rock outcrop or overhang above the water, in the face of which was a hole filled with arrows. Different stories surround the meaning of the arrows, said to be shot there by the Lakes people (Sinixt) for good luck, either before or after war
The Alice Lake provincial park is 12 kilometres north of Squamish and includes its namesake lake as well as three others that are perfect for canoeing and stand up paddle boarding.
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Thirty minutes from downtown Kamloops, on the scenic road to Sun Peaks Resort, you’ll find this mountainside lake that boasts crystal clear water and an abundance of wildlife.
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This picturesque lake just west of Kamloops is 29 kilometres and lined with unique hoodoo formations, which are pinnacles of weathered rock.
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The most accessible and popular of the two lakes found in Norbury Lake Provincial Park near Cranbrook.
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Known as the “lake of a thousand colours,” the beautiful Kalamalka Lake ranges from sparkling cyans to deep turquoise greens depending on the time of year.
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The Arrow Lakes offer 230 kilometres of paddling opportunity in a beautiful valley that extends from Revelstoke to Castlegar.
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Experience the beauty of the Coast Mountains above cedar, fir, and spruce forests from fjord-like waters, where wildlife such as bald eagles and black bears may be witnessed.
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Nahatlatch Lake offers a tranquil escape into nature’s untouched beauty. This jade-green lakes are the lifeblood of the Nahatlatch River, feeding its thrilling rapids and supporting the valley’s rich ecosystem.
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Hannah Lake offers a tranquil escape into nature’s untouched beauty. This jade-green lake is part of the lifeblood of the Nahatlatch River, feeding its thrilling rapids and supporting the valley’s rich ecosystem.
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Francis Lake offers a tranquil escape into nature’s untouched beauty. This jade-green lake is part of the lifeblood of the Nahatlatch River, feeding its thrilling rapids and supporting the valley’s rich ecosystem.
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The pristine waters of Slocan Lake serve as the gateway to Valhalla Provincial Park—a rugged wilderness aptly named after Viking heaven. Towering granite peaks rise from the shoreline, waterfalls cascade down steep forested slopes, and eight idyllic beach campsites dot the edge of the lake, offering the perfect launchpad for a multi-day paddling adventure or a scenic day trip.
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Stretching over 100 km between the Selkirk and Purcell Mountains, Kootenay Lake offers paddlers an endless playground of crystal-clear water, secluded beaches, and dramatic mountain backdrops. Whether launching from the vibrant communities of Nelson, Kaslo, or Balfour, you’ll find calm bays perfect for a leisurely paddle, as well as long, open-water crossings for more experienced adventurers. Stop at remote coves only accessible by boat, explore hidden waterfalls along the shoreline, or follow in the wake of history past old steamboat landings. With its mix of sheltered inlets, island outcrops, and panoramic alpine views, Kootenay Lake is a paddler’s dream—equally suited to sunrise solitude or multi-day shoreline expeditions under starlit skies.
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Experience the best of Nelson and Kootenay Lake on a three-day adventure filled with paddling, mountain views, and local flavour. From coffee at Oso Negro and shoreline paddles in Nelson, to soaring with Kokanee Mountain Zipline, ferry rides across the world’s longest free crossing, and hikes to the Pilot Bay Lighthouse, each day blends outdoor adventure with unforgettable dining—ending with a sunset meal at the historic Kaslo Hotel.
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Every corner of British Columbia offers something special for the visiting paddler, from gliding through coastal inlets to soaking up the sun on warm interior lakes. To help you explore BC by…
Like many, I’d floor it through the region between the Okanagan and the coast when travelling through southern British Columbia. There never seemed to be a reason to stop unless my kids…
The cedar strip canoe my father and I built together three decades ago is, if I may say, a work of art. It’s graced countless stunning waterways over the years, but few…
