The Best (And Worst) Places for Paddling in the Fraser Valley

When it comes to paddling in the Fraser Valley, your best bets are on the north side of the Fraser River where the lakes are nicer, the views are better, and the paddling is far more interesting. Whether you’re looking for a full day’s adventure or a quiet afternoon escape, the Fraser Valley has a few gems worth exploring.

Many of the region’s larger lakes are fjord lakes, meaning they act as wind tunnels, especially in the afternoons. Always check the forecast before you go and make sure you’re carrying Transport Canada’s mandatory gear for self-powered watercraft.

When using boat launches, always practice good etiquette: keep to one side and clear the launch quickly. Don’t linger, especially if there are others waiting.

Top Paddling Destinations

Stave Lake

A BC hydro reservoir with stunning views of Mt. Robie Reid, this beautiful lake is divided into two sections. The southern end (accessed from the Stave Lake boat launch) follows the path of the old river, while the upper lake (accessed via Kearsley Creek or Rocky Point) offers a more remote, wilderness feel. From Kearsley Creek Campground, paddle across to the quiet Isle Slough, or visit “Rudy,” an old piece of logging equipment abandoned on the shoreline.

Hazards: Submerged trees, wind, sharp debris on shore. In spring and early summer, high water levels can mean limited places to stop.

Fees: $10 day use fee at Kearsley Creek and Rocky Point Campgrounds. Stave Lake Boat Launch is free.

Widgeon Creek

Often considered one of the best places to paddle in the Fraser Valley, Widgeon Creek is accessed via Grant Narrows Park and a short paddle across the river channel. This peaceful 5 km route takes you through wetlands and bird habitat, ending at Widgeon Creek Campsite in Pinecone-Burke Provincial Park. You can extend your day with a 2.5 km (one way) hike to Widgeon Falls. A popular overnight canoe trip for school groups. Canoe rentals available.

Hazards: Pitt Lake is tidal. Low tide (especially in summer when there are lower water levels) can leave the launch muddy and the creek shallow in places, sometimes requiring portages.

Fees: $6 day parking; $18 overnight. No camping fees.

Hayward Lake

This scenic paddle makes for a nice full or half day paddle. Hayward Lake is a BC Hydro reservoir, so watch for dead heads (sunken trees) beneath the surface of the lake. Those that are above water are often used as nesting sites by ospreys and Canada geese (please give them space). Kayak down the lake to Hairsine Inlet or South Beach, or make a circuit of the lake. The lake is popular on hot summer days, so get there early and have a backup plan in case the parking lot is full.

Hazards: Submerged trees (dead heads).

Fees: None.

Weaver Lake

Located a short distance up Weaver Creek FSR, this small, oddly-shaped lake is fun to explore. Look for mini-ecosystems growing on the lake’s partially submerged logs. If landing at the far end of the lake, keep an eye out for signs of elk released in this area in 2014. Extend your day by hiking the 7.3 km Denham Trail around the lake.

Hazards: Use caution on forest service roads.

Fees: $10 visitor fee.

Honourable Mentions

• Sayres Lake: Small and scenic, with peek-a-boo views of the mountains.
• Alouette River: A mellow, easy to access paddle with lots of bird life.
• Barrowtown “Floating Forest”:  Paddle through flooded forest during freshet (highly seasonal and not every year). The floating forest is located on a side channel of the Sumas River, midway between the launch at Barrowtown Pump Station and the confluence with the Vedder River.

Beginner-Friendly (But Possibly Underwhelming)

• Whonnock Lake: Good for trying out your gear for the first time.
• Rolley Lake: Small and family-friendly. The gate is now open year-round.

Wind-Prone But Beautiful

Caution: These areas are known for getting windy, especially in the afternoons. Always check the forecast before you go and start early.

• Harrison Lake: If it’s calm, paddling up to Rainbow Falls and back makes for a nice outing. Launch at Green Point in Sasquatch Provincial Park.
• Harrison Bay: Launch at Kilby Park but beware of wind and powerboats. Great for viewing eagles in autumn.
• Harrison River: Launch at Kilby Park or by Harrison Mills bridge. Be mindful of wind, current, powerboats, and stay out of Lhá:lt/Harrison-Chehalis Wildlife Management Area (if you get that far). Also a great place to view eagles in the autumn.
• Chilliwack Lake: While scenic, this lake is notorious for its afternoon wind. Launch early or reconsider.

Places to Avoid

• Fraser River: The Fraser can be incredibly dangerous to paddle, especially during freshet when debris is common. The current on this high-traffic waterway is stronger than it looks and can carry paddlers farther than anticipated.
• Silvermere Lake: There’s no public access to this sizeable lake. It’s man-made, with the lake bottom itself is divided into privately-owned parcels of land, making the lake itself privately owned. Please do not trespass.
• Cultus Lake: While the scenery is decent, this lake is often overcrowded, noisy, and dominated by powerboats. Access can be difficult in the summer due to heavy traffic and limited parking.
• Hatzic Lake: Although some enjoy the birdlife here, Hatzic Lake is known for polluted water and lacks a proper boat launch. Access is on foot from Nielson Park.