Kayaking & Canoeing
Family kayaking (Dave Heath photo)
The endless waterways of the Nimpo Lake area are excellent for canoeing and kayaking.
Paddle the calm waters of the Turner Lake canoe chain in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, challenge the Class IV-V whitewater rapids of the Dean and Chilcotin rivers, or canoe past spectacular mountain scenery on Nimpo Lake itself. The Dean River annual canoe race begins in Nimpo Lake and ends in Anahim Lake.
Chilcotin River
The Chilcotin River, beginning in Itcha Ilgachuz Provincial Park and encompassing Chilko Lake and Chilko River, has Class IV-V whitewater rapids. Canoe, kayak, or raft through subalpine regions and grasslands, eventually reaching the Fraser River. Additional wilderness canoe locations include Dean River and Blackwater River, with its many tributaries and adjoining lakes.
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Turner Lake Chain
Canoe or kayak the Turner Lake chain in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. The Turner Lake chain comprises Turner Lake (the longest at 5km/3mi), Cutthroat Lake (the shortest at less than 1km/0.6mi), Vista Lake, Junker Lake, Widgeon Lake, Kidney Lake, and Sunshine Lake. The route is approximately 27km/17mi long and has wilderness campsites and clearly marked portages. Relatively short distances between portages make for an easy trip, even for beginners. The Turner Lake chain is accessible on foot or by flying in only. The summer months of June to September are the most popular for canoeing in the Nimpo Lake area. July and August are usually the driest months.
Practical Points
- Nimpo Lake's backcountry is bear country: Maintain a safe distance from bears and other wildlife, store food in proper containers, and pack out all waste.
- Make sure campfires are fully extinguished.
- Boil or treat drinking water.
- Be prepared for quickly changing weather and wind conditions.
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Things To Do
Water Activities