Welcome to the breathtaking Sea to Sky region, where majestic mountains meet the glistening waters along the western coast of North America. If you're a fan of stand-up paddleboarding and seeking adventure in some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth, you're in for a treat. From the charming coastal town of Squamish to the Chilcotin interior hub of Lillooett, this region offers a plethora of extraordinary paddleboarding opportunities.
Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the best places to stand-up paddleboard along the Sea to Sky, immersing ourselves in nature's beauty while gliding atop crystal-clear waters. Whether you're a seasoned paddleboarder or new to the sport, prepare to be captivated by the serene coastal landscapes, awe-inspiring mountains, and the chance to connect with the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest. So grab your paddle and board, and let's dive into the enchanting world of stand-up paddleboarding in the Sea to Sky region along Highway 99.
SUP Routes Near Squamish, BC
Alice Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 km loop
Paddle access points: south beach access
Parking: Alice lake south parking lot
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image sourced from: https://bcparks.ca/alice-lake-park/
Begin your stand-up paddleboarding adventure at Alice Lake Provincial Park, near Squamish, BC. Launch your paddleboard from the southern end of the lake's boat launch area. Enjoy a scenic 1.5 km loop around the lake, suitable for all skill levels. Glide along the serene shoreline, surrounded by lush forests and picturesque rock formations.
Take in the majestic mountain views that serve as a stunning backdrop. Capture memorable photos as the mountains reflect on the calm water.
Explore the small islands within Alice Lake for added excitement. Navigate around them to discover new perspectives and embrace the sense of adventure. This route caters to everyone, regardless of age or experience. Alice Lake provides an ideal setting for a tranquil and captivating stand-up paddleboarding experience. Immerse yourself in the serenity, connect with nature, and create lasting memories as you paddle on the beautiful waters of Alice Lake.
At Alice Lake, you can get paddle board rentals at Sea to Sky Paddle Sports Rental Hut
Camp at Alice Lake in BC for a serene and picturesque experience. Set up amidst nature, enjoy amenities like spacious campsites and clean facilities. Swim, paddle, and hike while soaking in the park's beauty. Spot wildlife, gather around campfires, and cherish moments in this popular destination. Reserve in advance for an unforgettable camping adventure.
Brohm Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.5 km loop
Paddle access points: Brohm Lake Day Use Recreational Site
Parking: Brohm Lake Day Use Recreational Site
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sourced from: https://www.exploresquamish.com/
Brohm Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake north of Squamish, BC, popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the 2.5 km SUP route. To start, access the lake from the Brohm Lake Day Use Recreational Site, which offers amenities like parking and restrooms. Launch your paddleboard and begin exploring.
Brohm Lake has calm and clear waters, perfect for paddleboarding. Enjoy paddling around the lake, taking in the scenic views of forests and mountains. You can paddle along the shoreline or venture further out, depending on your skill level and preference.
Remember to check the weather and any local regulations before heading out. Bring necessary safety equipment like a PFD and follow guidelines for paddleboarding in the area.
SUP Routes Near Whistler, BC
Green Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy/moderate
Distance: 10 km loop
Paddle access points: Fitzsimmons Park
Parking: Fitzsimmons Park
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sourced from: https://planetofhotels.com/guide/en/canada/whistler/green-lake
Green Lake is a picturesque and inviting body of water nestled in the beautiful town of Whistler, British Columbia. Known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain vistas, Green Lake attracts outdoor enthusiasts and offers various recreational opportunities, including paddle boarding.
For paddleboarding enthusiasts seeking a longer adventure, a popular option is the 10 km loop starting at Fitzsimmons Park. Situated on the eastern shore of Green Lake,Fitzsimmons Park serves as a convenient launch point for this exhilarating paddleboarding route.
As you embark on this 10 km loop, you'll find yourself immersed in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds Green Lake. The route takes you along the shoreline, allowing you to soak in the awe-inspiring views of majestic mountains, lush forests, and possibly even catch glimpses of local wildlife.
After your long paddleboarding adventure on Green Lake and taking in the stunning scenery, you deserve to treat yourself to some delicious food. One excellent option is to visit Table Nineteen in Whistler. At Table Nineteen, you can indulge in a diverse range of delectable dishes prepared by skilled chefs using locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, or flavorful vegetarian options, the restaurant's menu is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Alta Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.7 Km loop
Paddle access points: Blueberry Docks
Parking: Blueberry Forest Park
Image Sourced from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alta_Lake_%28British_Columbia%29
Begin your paddleboarding adventure at the Blueberry Docks, a popular starting point nestled along the shores of Alta Lake. Before setting off, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of the lake and the majestic mountain landscape that surrounds it.
Once you launch from the Blueberry Docks, you'll find yourself gliding onto the tranquil and unspoiled waters of Alta Lake. The 4.7 km loop beckons, offering a delightful journey that allows you to traverse a substantial portion of the lake's shoreline, revealing a blend of captivating scenery and a spirit of exploration.
As you paddle along the loop, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vistas of towering mountains and the lush forests that envelop the lake. The crystal-clear waters of Alta Lake reflect the beauty that envelops you, creating a serene ambiance that enhances your experience as you navigate the route.
Along your paddleboarding adventure, you may stumble upon hidden gems, such as secluded bays and inviting sandy beaches, inviting you to pause and take in their natural allure. Keep your senses sharp, as you might even be fortunate enough to catch glimpses of the local avian life, fish gliding beneath the surface, or other aquatic creatures that call Alta Lake their home, enriching the tapestry of natural wonders that make this area so special.
Lost Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.3 Km loop
Paddle access points: Big Dock
Parking: Lost Lake Park
Image Sourced from: https://hikeinwhistler.com/index.php/run/lost-lake-6k
Lost Lake, located in Whistler, British Columbia, offers a picturesque setting for Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) adventures. If you're looking for a shorter 1.3 km loop, one popular option is starting at the Big Dock. Here's a description to help you visualize the experience:
Your paddleboarding journey begins at the Big Dock, a prominent landmark and launch point situated along the shoreline of Lost Lake. As you prepare to embark on your SUP adventure, you'll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the lake and the lush forests that frame its edges.
Launching from the Big Dock, you'll glide onto the calm waters of Lost Lake. The route follows a 1.3 km loop, allowing you to explore a portion of the lake's shoreline and enjoy the tranquility that the area has to offer. The loop is designed to provide a satisfying paddleboarding experience within a shorter distance.
As you paddle, take in the sights and sounds of Lost Lake. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding trees, creating a mesmerizing natural mirror. The gentle ripples and the rhythm of your strokes contribute to a peaceful and immersive experience on the water.
Along the loop, you'll have the opportunity to observe the local flora and fauna, as Lost Lake is known for its diverse ecosystem. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds, fish, or even beavers, as they navigate their habitat.
SUP Routes Near Pemberton
Lillooet Lake
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13.4 Km loop
Paddle access points: Twin One Creek
Parking: Twin One Creek Beach
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sourced from: https://thatadventurer.co.uk/lillooet-lake-camping-bc/
Your paddleboarding journey begins at Twin One Creek, a picturesque campground situated on the shores of Lillooet Lake. As you prepare to embark on your SUP adventure, you can take advantage of the campground's amenities and facilities, such as campsites, picnic areas, and potential access to restrooms and potable water.
After setting up camp or using the facilities at Twin One Creek, you'll have the perfect starting point to launch your paddleboard onto the calm waters of Lillooet Lake. As you glide across the surface, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you, with majestic mountains and lush forests creating a stunning backdrop.
The 13.4 km loop allows you to explore different sections of Lillooet Lake, starting and ending at Twin One Creek. Paddling along the shoreline, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the tranquillity of the lake and the beauty of your natural surroundings. Take in the serene atmosphere and perhaps even spot wildlife or observe the play of sunlight on the water.
While following the 13.4 km loop starting at Twin One Creek, you'll have the flexibility to customize your paddleboarding experience on Lillooet Lake. The lake offers plenty of areas to explore, allowing you to easily make the route longer or shorter according to your preferences.
Gates Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.3 Km loop
Paddle access points: Gates Lake Community Park
Parking: Gates Lake Community Park
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sourced from: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd2CbbWLkgf/
Gates Lake, located near Birken, British Columbia, is a serene and picturesque lake that offers an ideal setting for Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) adventures. Enjoy a 4.3 km loop starting at Gates Lake Community Park, Gates Lake Community Park is a designated recreation area that provides amenities such as parking, restrooms, and potentially picnic areas. It serves as a convenient starting point for your SUP journey on Gates Lake.
To begin your paddleboarding loop, launch your board from Gates Lake Community Park and head out onto the tranquil waters of the lake. As you paddle, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the area, including scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The 4.3 km loop allows you to explore different sections of Gates Lake. You can paddle along the shoreline, taking in the sights and sounds of the peaceful surroundings.
SUP Routes Near Lillooet
Duffey Lake Provincial Park
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13Km loop
Paddle access points: Duffy Lake Lookout
Parking: Duffy Lake Provincial Park
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sources from: https://livinglakescanada.ca/photo/loretta-wittur-duffy-lake/
Experience the thrill of a 13 km stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) loop, starting and ending at Duffy Lake Lookout. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains and the shimmering waters of Duffy Lake. Duffy Lake is an enchanting alpine gem. Its shimmering turquoise waters mirror the towering peaks and verdant forests that encircle it, creating a scene of unrivaled natural beauty. Adventurers flock to Duffy Lake for its pristine hiking trails, leading them through picturesque meadows and captivating wilderness. Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to its abundant trout population, casting lines into the calm waters and relishing in the tranquility of the surroundings. A visit to Duffy Lake is an invitation to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, where breathtaking vistas and a sense of peace await at every turn.
Pavilion Lake
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12.3Km loop
Paddle access points: Pavilion Lake Drive Site
Parking: Pavilion Lake Drive Site
Paddling hazards: low risk
Image Sourced from: https://gocampingbc.com/park/marble-canyon/
Embark on an exhilarating 12.3 km SUP loop starting at Pavilion Lake Dive Site. Pavilion Lake, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a captivating freshwater lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and unique underwater formations. Situated amidst the scenic Marble Canyon, it offers a serene and picturesque setting.
What sets Pavilion Lake apart is its fascinating underwater features known as microbialites. These ancient structures, similar to stromatolites, are formed by microbial communities and provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on Earth. Scientists from around the world come to study these remarkable formations, making Pavilion Lake an important site for scientific research.
Beyond its scientific significance, Pavilion Lake also offers a variety of recreational activities. The clear waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Divers can explore the depths of the lake, marveling at the unique underwater landscape and observing the diverse aquatic life that thrives in its pristine environment.
Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Pavilion Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the nearby Marble Canyon, offering stunning vistas and opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness. The peaceful ambiance of the lake and its surroundings make it a perfect spot for picnicking, relaxing, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature.
Conclusion
Sea to Sky region offers a diverse array of stand-up paddleboarding experiences that cater to all skill levels and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the tranquil lakes and calm waters of Brohm Lake or Green Lake, or you prefer the adventure of exploring the vastness of Lillooet Lake or Alta Lake, there is something for everyone.
Each paddleboarding route provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes, from the towering mountains to the lush forests, and the sparkling waters that reflect it all. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings, and take in the breathtaking views that will leave a lasting impression.
After a long day of paddling, indulge yourself with delicious food at local establishments like Table Nineteen in Whistler or unwind at the picturesque campgrounds of Twin One Creek and Alice Lake.
So whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the Sea to Sky region, grab your paddleboard, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let the beauty of these remarkable destinations inspire and rejuvenate you. The Sea to Sky truly is a haven for stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts, offering unforgettable experiences in some of the most captivating settings nature has to offer.