When the glaciers of the last ice age receded north over 10,000 years ago, they left a landscape marked by calm lakes and protected fjords. Combine these natural features with an abundance of forest, a great variety of wildlife, and a huge local population of outdoor enthusiasts, and it's easy to understand why kayaking is such a popular activity in the Vancouver area.
Learn more about kayaking in:
Vancouver, Coast & Mountains (Lake Kayaking)
Whistler (Lake Kayaking)
Vancouver (Ocean Kayaking)
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What Lake Kayaking in Vancouver Offers
Just 30 minutes by car from downtown Vancouver, the glacier-carved fjord of Indian Arm lures local and visiting kayakers alike with its protected waters and pristine Coast Mountain vistas. Although Indian Arm is technically saltwater, it is such a popular Vancouver kayak spot that it should be mentioned here. Start at Deep Cove in North Vancouver and spend a day paddling this remarkable extension of the Pacific Ocean. A quick drive from the suburb of Port Moody, fjord-like Buntzen Lake is a haven for picnickers and kayakers alike. This large lake is surrounded by wilderness and power boats are prohibited, so a scenic and serene paddle is almost always guaranteed.
Minutes east of Vancouver in the heart of Burnaby, Deer Lake is an accessible urban oasis with some great paddling opportunities. Explore this small oval lake in a rented kayak and you're likely to see bullfrogs, rainbow trout, and a variety of wild birds.
Don't forget that the city of Vancouver offers some of North America's best urban sea kayaking in and around the downtown core.
Wildlife Watching from Kayaks
Visitors to Vancouver are consistently amazed by the quantity and diversity of the city's wildlife. The area's numerous parks, green spaces, and waters are home to a stunning array of animals, including coyotes, raccoons, frogs, harbour seals, seagulls, bald eagles and a variety of fish.
Guided Kayak Tours and Rentals
Kayak rentals are available throughout the Vancouver area. At Buntzen Lake, rentals are available on weekends year-round and should be arranged at Anmore Store (just outside the park area). In Deep Cove (Indian Arm), kayak rentals are readily available from April to October and can sometimes be arranged in winter months as well. Kayak rentals at Deer Lake run from April to October.
When to Kayak Vancouver
The best time for kayaking in Vancouver is April through October, but thanks to the city's mild climate it's possible to paddle year-round. Choosing to paddle in early morning may allow you to have a lake all to yourself.
Getting to the Best Kayak Spots
Both Deep Cove and Deer Lake are roughly half an hour by car from downtown Vancouver. Buntzen Lake is roughly one hour by car. All three destinations are serviced by public transit.
Practical Points and Water Safety
- Test your competency before embarking on a self-guided kayak journey. All paddlers should be able to launch the kayak from shore, paddle it in a straight line, turn it in both directions and steer to avoid obstacles. It is wise to learn how to perform a "wet exit." Many kayaking clubs in North America offer practice sessions.
- Proper planning and preparation, weather-appropriate clothing, and an adequate supply of food and water are essential.
- Be sure to dress in layers. Bring quick dry clothing, such as wool and polyester; avoid cotton clothing, as takes longer to dry and does not retain heat. Food, clothing and other personal items should be packed in watertight containers. Specially designed portage packs and dry bags work well.
- All recreational watercraft must have a Canadian approved lifejacket or PFD of the appropriate size for each person on board. Rental shops and guided tours will usually supply PFDs and other required gear.
- Fishing is permitted on many lakes and rivers in compliance with the BC Non-Tidal Sports Fishing Regulations. A BC fishing licence is required and may be purchased at resorts and sporting goods stores.
- Always let someone know your route and destination before setting out on a kayak trip. Be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly and may affect your itinerary.