Canoeing the River of Golden Dreams, Whistler

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I had the pleasure of canoeing the River of Golden Dreams for a few hours while on a June trip to Whistler. It’s an easy paddle – even for the novice – and the perfect summertime activity.

Put your canoe (or kayak) in at Alta Lake – and check out the cottages as you look for the opening to the River of Golden Dreams across the lake. You pass the original site of Myrtle and Alex Phillip’s summer fishing lodge – the first people to purchase and build a house in Whistler.

If you look back you’ll have nice mountain views too. You’re never far from civilization on the five kilometre River of Golden Dreams paddle but you’ll feel transported to the wilderness. The end point is Green Lake, but it’s possible to pullout earlier.

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A view of the ski hill from Alta Lake at the start of the River of Golden Dreams paddle

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Canoeing the River of Golden Dreams – birding and bears

Paddle on flat water past beaver dams and lodges and keep your eyes out for a wide assortment of birds – including eagles and osprey.

Many people will see black bears, and we were lucky enough to see a black bear at the pullout. No worries when you’re in a group of four or more. Do make lots of noise though.

Kayaking is another alternative on the River of Golden Dreams

Guide showing the points of interest along the river — Guide showing the points of interest along the River of Golden Dreams

In the summer the water levels will have dropped so it will be easier to pass under the bridge – and any ripples will be totally manageable. It will be closer to a float trip by August.

Canoeing the River of Golden Dreams becomes more scenic the further you go – mostly because you lose sight of the overhead power lines.

Do pick your paddling partner. The river has been nicknamed the River of Broken Marriages – probably on account of poor steering on the guy’s part because they’re usually the ones steering.

You need a degree of flexibility to get under this bridge - early in the season — You need a degree of flexibility to get under this bridge – early in the season

Enjoying the paddle of the River of Golden Dreams — Paddling a pretty section on the River of Golden Dreams

"A black bear wandering along the bike path" — A black bear wandering along the bike path in Whistler

Final thoughts and pricing on the River of Golden Dreams

All in all canoeing the River of Golden Dreams is one of the most delightful outings I think that you can do in Whistler on a hot summer day.

Backroads Whistler rents an assortment of water craft including kayaks and canoes. You can do a guided trip or alternatively paddle the River of Golden Dreams on your own but arrange for a pickup at the end.

A three hour, fully guided tour costs approximately $175 + tax. Tours run three times a day starting at 9:30 AM with the last tour at 1:30 PM. Custom and private tours are also available.

A self-guided trip is approximately $125 + tax.