River of Golden Dreams Self Guided Experience

Exploring the River of Golden Dreams is the must do activity here. The river has remained one of Whistler’s unspoiled jewels. Little to no development has occurred on its riverbanks, lending a great opportunity for resort guests to see how Whistler balances its human development while preserving nature.

The river is alive with fish and critters such as beaver and mink and sometimes bears playing in the water. The riverbanks are lined with wildflowers and birds that burst off the water in front of your boat and dart across your path from tree to tree. If you look up you’re likely to see an osprey or bald eagle soaring high overhead with the glacier-capped mountain peaks in the background....but watch where your going or you'll miss the next corner.

Ask any local about the river they'll "yes do it"!. Not to hard, not to easy, definitely a giggles and kicks trip. Backroads Whistler is the only river specialty company in the valley. We have the right gear, river orientations and go with the flow down the river our free shuttle brings you back. You can to Guided or Unguided

The river is heaps of fun. People come back year after year to paddle it. It's a twisty turny shallow flat water (no rapids) creek that winds it's way through Whistlers wetlands. We'll start you off with a river orientation, give you steering tips, lifejackets and all your gear. You start on the lake to get used to your boats then enter the river. It's not just a float, you have to steer your boat around the corners or get stuck in the streamside foliage. Single kayaks are the easiest boat to use but Canadian Canoes are way more fun as you have to coordinate with your partner navigating the corners. We call them the divorce boats!:) We have beginners to experts join us. Often paddlers without moving water experience hire one of our guides. Either way we're happy to answer all your questions so you have a memorable time.

Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
children should be 3 years of age or older.
You will be an active participant. This is not a sit back and float trip, that's why people like it. 'I did the river!"
Water levels in late spring are higher than in late July and August.
Guides are recommended during high water season if you don't have previous moving water experience. By mid to late summer young families go unguided.
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers