The Kootenays, a hidden gem in British Columbia, offers outdoor enthusiasts some of the most pristine and serene spots for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner looking to explore the great outdoors, the Kootenays has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the top places to SUP in both the East and West Kootenays, providing tips, insights, and everything you need to know to make your paddleboarding experience unforgettable.
Where is the Kootenays?
Nestled in southeastern British Columbia, the Kootenays is a region renowned for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and rivers. It's divided into two main areas—the East Kootenays and the West Kootenays.
The Kootenays boasts a myriad of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to kayaking and, of course, paddleboarding. Its untouched beauty and ecological diversity make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The Kootenays enjoy a relatively mild climate, making it perfect for paddleboarding from late spring to early fall. The region's waterways, however, are cold all year round and require dressing for immersion despite the soaring summer air temps. While winds can often be light, unexpected mountain weather systems can create strong winds very quickly.
This region allows for easy SUP floats along a lake shore, river running, and multiday SUP trips. The Kootenays have a variety of paddling routes for every skill level, and each one offers unique views and experiences.
Places to SUP in the East Kootenays
The East Kootenays is home to some of the most breathtaking SUP spots. Here's where you should start your adventure.
Windermere Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1- 5 km
Paddle access points: James Chabot Provincial Park, Kinsmen Beach, Windermere public Beach, Windermere Lake Provincial Park
Paddling hazards: low risk
Lake Windermere provides expansive, calm waters perfect for leisurely paddles. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain views, making it an Instagram-worthy destination. Morning paddles here are particularly captivating as the sun rises over the mountains.
Located at the northern end of Lake Windermere, James Chabot Provincial Park and Kinsmen Beach offers easy access to the water, with plenty of amenities including parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families.
At the southern end, Windermere Beach and Windermere Lake Provincial Park is another excellent launch point. It’s less crowded than James Chabot, offering a more tranquil paddling experience.
Columbia Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1- 5 km
Paddle access points: Columbia Lake Provincial Park, Tilley Memorial Park
Paddling hazards: low risk
Columbia Lake is a paddler's haven, known for its serene waters and breathtaking scenery. This glacial lake, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, offers an idyllic setting for a peaceful paddleboarding experience. The waters here are typically calm, making it perfect for SUP beginners seeking a leisurely outing or seasoned paddlers wanting to soak in the tranquility. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views at every turn, making it easy to lose oneself in nature's grandeur.
With access points at Columbia Lake Provincial Park and Tilley Memorial Park, paddlers can easily launch their boards and begin exploring the pristine waters. The early morning hours are particularly magical, with the rising sun casting a golden glow on the mountains and reflecting off the mirror-like surface of the lake. Whether you're looking to paddle for a short distance or embark on a longer adventure, Columbia Lake promises an unforgettable experience.
Kootenay River
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Challenging
Distance: 1- 5 km
Paddle access points:
Paddling hazards: low
The Kootenay River is a must-visit for those looking for a bit of adventure. This river offers a mix of calm waters and gentle rapids, suitable for intermediate paddlers. It’s a great place to practice your skills while enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
The river is teeming with wildlife, including deer, eagles, and otters. A paddle down the Kootenay River is not just an exercise in physical fitness but also a wild safari on water.
Provincial Parks
The East Kootenays features several provincial parks with excellent SUP opportunities.
Wasa Lake Provincial Park
Wasa Lake is one of the warmest lakes in the Kootenays, offering ideal conditions for paddleboarding. The park has multiple launch points and is well-equipped with facilities, including campgrounds and picnic areas.
Kikomun Creek Provincial Park
Located near the U.S. border, Kikomun Creek Provincial Park is home to Surveyors Lake, a serene spot perfect for paddleboarding. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant aquatic life.
Premier Lake Provincial Park
Premier Lake offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience. The lake is surrounded by dense forest, providing a peaceful backdrop for your paddleboarding adventures.
SUP Rental Companies and Guided Tours in the East Kootenays
Exploring the East Kootenays on a stand-up paddleboard is an experience not to be missed, and whether you're a first-timer or an experienced paddler, having the right gear and guidance can make all the difference.
Places to SUP in the West Kootenays
The West Kootenays is equally stunning, offering a variety of lakes and rivers perfect for paddleboarding.
Kootenay Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Distance: as short or long as you like!
Paddle access points: Nelson Waterfront, Kaslo Bay Public Beach, Boswell Public Boat Launch, Lockhart Beach Provincial Park, Kootenay Bay Boat Launch, Balfour Public Dock, Historic Ainsworth Wharf Regional Park, Kootenay Lake Provincial Park - Lost Ledge Campground, Lardeau Regional Park, Kokanee Park Marina, Nelson Rotary Lakeside Park
Paddling hazards: the water is always COLD! Strong winds can funnel through the valley. There are many sunk logs and old logging pilings under the surface.
Kootenay Lake is one of the largest lakes in British Columbia and offers endless opportunities for exploration. The many access points along the lake's shoreline make it easy to find a spot to launch your board and begin your adventure. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you paddle the shoreline, or challenge yourself with a longer distance paddle from one shoreline to another.
Be mindful of how cold the water is, the strong winds that funnel up the valley and boat traffic on this popular lake. With so many access points and paddleboarding options, Kootenay Lake is a must-visit for any SUP enthusiast.
Christina Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Distance: as short or long as you like!
Paddle access points: Kingsley Beach, Texas Point, Christina Lake Marina, Christina Lake Public Beach at Christina Lake Provincial Park, Gladstone Provincial Park
Paddling hazards:
Christina Lake is known for its warm, inviting waters. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely paddle or an all-day adventure. The lake offers multiple access points and stunning views of the surrounding Selkirk Mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and various species of birds.
Arrow Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Distance: as short or long as you like!
Paddle access points: Nakusp Marina, McDonald Creek Provincial Park, Shelter Bay, Fauquier Boat Launch, Edgewood Boat Launch, Syringa Provincial Park
Paddling hazards: Strong winds, submerged logs, boat traffic
Arrow Lake stretches approximately 230 kilometers from Revelstoke in the north to Castlegar in the south, making it one of the region's largest lakes. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic mountain views, Arrow Lake provides an ideal setting for both leisurely paddles and more challenging excursions. Along its extensive shoreline, paddlers can find multiple access points ranging from cozy marinas to provincial parks. However, it’s essential to remain cautious of strong winds, submerged logs, and boat traffic while exploring this magnificent lake. With its diverse landscapes and ever-changing conditions, Arrow Lake promises a memorable experience for any stand-up paddleboarding enthusiast.
Slocan Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Distance: 1- 5 km
Paddle access points: New Denver Public Beach, Silverton Public Dock, Aylwin Campground, Lemon Creek Lodge & RV Park
Paddling hazards: wind, cold water and old logging infrastructure
Slocan Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in the West Kootenays. It's surrounded by mountain peaks, dense forests, and charming lakeside communities. Paddlers can enjoy calm waters near the shore or challenge themselves with longer-distance paddles between towns and campgrounds of Valhalla Provincial Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including eagles and otters, as you navigate this stunning lake.
Slocan River
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 1-80 km
Paddle access points:
Paddling hazards: common river hazards, old logging infrastructure
The Slocan River offers a paddleboarding adventure with Class I-III rapids. Intermediate paddlers might enjoy the stretch between Slocan and Crescent Valley, a Class II, 80km journey that takes a full day. For a shorter trip, access the river at any bridge along Hwy 6, especially between Perry Siding and Slocan Park.
The most challenging section (Class III) is a 5km stretch just north of the Kootenay River confluence, between Crescent Valley and Shoreacres, a favorite spot for kayakers and canoers. Start at Crescent Valley and finish at Shoreacres, downstream of the railroad bridge. Plan for one to three hours.
Pend Oreille River
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 1- 5 km
Paddle access points: B.C. Hydro Park and Camping Ground
Paddling hazards: common river hazards, old logging infrastructure
As you navigate the waters, you'll be surrounded by dense forests, rugged rock formations, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the area's abundant wildlife. Access points such as the B.C. Hydro Park and Camping Ground offer convenient entry to the river. Paddle east away from the dam and follow the shoreline.
West Kootenay Provincial Parks
The West Kootenays is home to several provincial parks that are great for paddleboarding. These include:
SUP Rental and Tour Companies in the West Kootenays
Conclusion
The Kootenays is a paddleboarder’s dream, offering a diverse range of lakes and rivers to explore. Whether you’re in the East or West Kootenays, you’ll find stunning scenery, tranquil waters, and a welcoming community of outdoor enthusiasts.
Ready to start your paddleboarding adventure in the Kootenays? Grab your board, pack your gear, and head to this beautiful region for an unforgettable experience.
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