Amazing Places to Paddle in BC's Interior

PAUL LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

Paul Lake Provincial Park is a scenic camping, hiking, and paddling spot just 30 minutes east of Kamloops. Fringed by lush forest of Douglas fir, pine and aspen, Paul Lake makes for a scenic and interesting paddle. Its marquee attraction is Gibraltar Rock, a 900-metre cliff face with commanding views of the lake—you can paddle right up beside the copper-coloured rock, or hike to the top of the bluff to look out over the lake (watch your step). 

Visit for the day or camp overnight to extend your adventure. Launch your craft from the west end of the lake and head out to explore from there. Note that you’ll have to bring your own watercraft here but it’ll be worth it.

CROOKED AND LOON LAKES

BC’s “Land of Hidden Waters” is peppered with pristine lakes, primed for paddling and fishing (or both). This lake-rich area stretches from Horsefly, to Cache Creek, with lakes dotted between Highways 97 and 5. Though they are nearly three hours apart, both Crooked and Loon Lakes are signature paddling stops—and the good news is that they aren’t so hidden once you know to look for them. 

Crooked Lake in the north, lies about one hour east of Horsefly, just outside of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Popular for anglers and paddlers alike, Crooked Lake is home to a remote wilderness resort and recreation sites. There’s also a boat launch and recreation site on the Crooked Lake South area of the lake.

TATLAYOKO LAKE

Situated on the traditional territories of the Tsilhqot’in People of Xeni Gwet’in, Tatlayoko Lake is fed by the Homathko River, which winds its way to the Pacific Ocean via the spectacular Bute Inlet. Feel the powerful energy of the land with a serene paddle on this peaceful lake. 

This is a very remote place, so you’ll want to stay and explore. How about a pioneer-themed cabin or sleeping out under the stars at Bracewell’s Alpine Wilderness Adventures?

BOWRON LAKES PROVINCIAL PARK

Located about 20 minutes northeast of Wells and Barkerville on the edge of the Cariboo Mountain Range, the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit this 116-kilometre paddling circuit is a popular multi-day wilderness paddle that can take between six and 10 days to complete (the west side of the circuit takes two to four days).

This 116-kilometre paddling circuit is a series of 12 lakes and rivers, with connecting portages, which takes backcountry paddlers on an adventure through remote and challenging waterways with a little bit of everything: scenic views, waterfall sightings, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This is one adventure that will leave you in awe of the natural world—filled with a sense of accomplishment after having completed a challenging self-supported paddling journey. 

TURNER LAKE

The Turner Lake Canoe Circuit in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is a high-elevation network of lakes located on the east slope of the Coast Mountain Range. With so much to explore, paddlers often pair their canoeing trip with a few extra days of alpine hiking—including a visit to Ptarmigan Lake, which sits high above Turner.  

To get to this awe-inspiring destination, you can either charter a floatplane in, or hike the challenging 16-kilometre Hunlen Falls Trail. Camp and paddle Turner Lake, or opt to do the entire circuit, which includes six portages. 

Water may seem clear and inviting, but there are risks associated with paddling. Always check water conditions and weather before you head out for a paddle. Remember to wear a life jacket and have a cold water plan, which can include a waterproof bag with dry clothes, in case you fall in.  AdventureSmart and Leave No Trace are great resources to help you get informed before heading outdoors. Follow the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials.