River of Golden Dreams – A Must Summer Activity
A Must do Whistler Summer Experience
Call or Email A local Whistler Travel Consultant Now Toll Free 1-877-887-5422 and ask us for the details.
River of Golden Dreams by Canoe or Kayak
This epic adventure can be guided or self guided. Guests start at Wayside or Lakeside Park and paddle across Alta Lake to the River of Golden Dreams.
Discover the magic of Whistler’s most beloved waterway winding gently from Alta Lake to Green Lake. This picturesque 5 km journey takes you through old-growth forests, vibrant wetlands and panoramic mountain views.
Start at Alta Lake and enjoy an approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hour trip depending on your pace and water flow. This is an easy to moderate paddle suitable for those with beginner paddling skills.
Guided Tours – Local operators offer safe, informative and scenic tours withe expert guides who share knowledge about Whistler’s ecology and history.
Self Guided Tours – Rent a canoe or kayak from Whistler’s outfitters and take the trip at your own pace. Shuttles are part of the boat rental to shuttle you back to the starting point.
What to bring? Sun screen, hat, bug spray, sunglasses, dry bag for phone and or camera and snacks and water. Wear clothing suitable for a canoe ride and bring your bathing suite so you can jump in for a quick dip if you like.
When to go This trip is best paddles from May to early September when the water is high and the water is warm. Morning evening are the most peaceful times to avoid crowds. In the spring (May to early July) the water levels are higher and the river moves faster. High water season ends (early July to Mid-August) and the river becomes a perfect place for guests of all experience levels to paddle the winding waterway.
Guided Tours run at 9:30 am / 1:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 6:00 pm (Wildlife Tour) daily
Self Guided tours are available from 9:00 am / 9:30 am / 10:30 am /11:00 am / 11:30 / 1:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 2:30 pm (These trips are fun by two different operators from two different locations.)
Whistler Eco Tours starts at Wayside Park
Backroads Whistler start at Lakeside Park
Contact us to get more information and to book this activity.
NOTES + RESTRICTIONS
Minimum 2 adults required. Children (under 12) go for 1/2 price ONLY when sitting in the middle seat of a canoe
Easy to moderate depending on experience and water level.
Price includes return shuttle bus, boat, paddle and personal floatation device.
We require a minimum of 24 hours in advance to book this activity online.
Total time required is about 3 hours round trip. You will spend 20-30 minutes on the lake getting warmed up and paddling to the river mouth. Then you follow the current as you steer the boat down the river.