Kayaking

Exploring our coast by kayak

From here, you can see every beautiful nook and cranny of British Columbia’s spectacular north coast. Sea kayaking may be the ultimate, up-close way to explore the Pacific Coast’s treasures.

Paddle with a pod of killer whales or track an eagle soaring above thick forests. Black bears, grizzlies and even the reclusive Kermode or Spirit bears, otters, porpoises, seals and numerous marine birds are observed while enjoying a kayak adventure.

The best time for a Northern British Columbia ocean kayaking adventure is between mid-May and August, when the days are long and the waters sparkle with spring and summer light. From Prince Rupert, special kayaking tours are available to the ancient Tsimshian village of Metlakatla, where petroglyphs and beautifully crafted totem poles illustrate the traditions and culture of the coast’s hereditary people. Packages including a ferry ride, along with a 90-minute kayaking excursion are popular with families, and enjoyable for children over 10 years old.

Many kayakers enjoy plying the waters of Prince Rupert’s port, and then heading out to find their own custom-made ocean adventure. Work Channel and Porcher Island are popular kayaking destinations also accessible from Prince Rupert.

Haida Gwaii kayak voyages trace the routes of the Haida, the ancient inhabitants of the region. Popular excursions include Bearskin Bay and Skidegate Inlet. From May to September, Haida Gwaii Watchmen are stationed to protect sensitive natural and cultural sites such as SGang Gwaay (Anthony Island), classified as a World Heritage Site in 1981 by UNESCO. Haida Gwaii may be reached by ferry from Prince Rupert, and airline service is also available.

For those who prefer freshwater

From east to west, north to south, Northern B.C. offers an abundance of freshwater kayaking opportunities. One of the most sought-after extended kayaking adventures is on the Tatshenshini-Alsek River System in the province’s northwest corner. It’s a wild and rugged country here, with majestic mountains and lush Alpine framing the swiftly flowing rivers. Recognized as one of the most pristine and rare ecosystems, the Tatshenshini-Alsek region is home of some of the highest peaks in North America, and more than 350 valley glaciers.

The Tatshenshini adventure, usually lasting at least 10 days, is a thrill for the more experienced paddlers. For novices, try a few of Northern B.C.’s thousands of lakes. The picturesque Lakes District, including the communities of Burns Lake and Fraser Lake, are perfect training grounds for inexperienced kayakers, or those looking for a more relaxing voyage. Exploring the waters of Francois Lake, Fraser Lake or Burns Lake is an accessible, enjoyable outing. The Finger Lakes area south of Vanderhoof on the Kenny Dam Road is another popular kayaking area.

The Northern Rockies are another perfect getaway for the freshwater kayaker.  The Gataga and Kechika River Valley is an amazing area, teeming with wildlife – bear, moose, goat, stone sheep and caribou. It is the largest unprotected wild watershed in the world, and its crystal clear waters are a kayaker’s dream. Travel the Alaska Highway (97) north into the Peace Region to access this exciting wilderness.