Canoeing and Kayaking in North BC : The northern region of British Columbia, Canada includes thousands of lakes connected by hundreds of rivers emptying into the Pacific and Arctic Oceans. It is a network of waterways containing rough and unpredictable currents, tides, swells and ebbs. It is this challenge that is the draw for many kayakers and canoers.

Many arrive to kayak the whitewater rivers in the region like the Babine, Skeena, Fraser, Peace, Murray and Bulkley Rivers. Each river provides a serious of different challenges. Some deal with reverse currents others with high swells, narrow canyon walls and rock obstacles.

Ocean kayakers arrive on the north coast of British Columbia to explore the channels and inlets. The many smaller islands located up and down the coast provides the sheltered bays for exploring by kayak away from the currents and winds. Experienced kayakers and extreme guiding tours in the area explore the open ocean routes exposed to winds and ocean swells.

Many people visit the thousands of lakes in Northern BC to canoe. Some lakes provide a day of canoeing and wildlife viewing while other lakes connect together via rivers providing multi-day trips exploring deep into the wilderness. Some remote canoe destinations include wilderness hikes portaging from lake to lake. Many of the individual lakes provide launch sites for canoes.

The multi-day touring companies provide both, day trips and multi day wilderness trips. It is always good to make sure the touring company provides all the equipment, lessons and a guide. Ask to make sure the guide is trained in water rescue and first aid training for obvious reasons. Some canoe and kayak tour companies include the meals and accommodations in their vacation packages.

Experienced paddlers should be well prepared for the weather (unpredictable at times), have a sound understanding of the currents and tides and are proficient in self rescue techniques.