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.
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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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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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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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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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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This is where the largest Kokanee fish in the world was caught. Need we say more?
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Nahatlatch Lake, Hannah Lake, and Francis Lake—offers a tranquil escape into nature’s untouched beauty. These 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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The most accessible and popular of the two lakes found in Norbury Lake Provincial Park near Cranbrook.
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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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The stand-up paddle board cuts through the glassy turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake as you glance up at the cliffs rising from the water’s edge, with stands of ponderosa pine glowing in…
Did you know there are crystal clear, teal-blue lakes with road access nestled in the Rocky Mountains without the crowds you see at other popular destinations? Norbury Lakes is one of many…
Epic views of the Lizard Range catch your eye as you bump over mellow rapids with seven other paddlers standing by your side on a giant 17-foot stand-up paddleboard called a SUPsquatch.…
