Paddle the Heart of the Kootenays
Because Castlegar is located at the confluence of two major rivers, the Kootenay and the Columbia, there is no shortage of amazing paddling opportunities for water lovers. Plus there are three major lakes and innumerable smaller ones nearby. It’s like having an entire water park at the tip of your paddle.
Featured waterways in Castlegar
Here are some of the area’s best bodies of water to dip into.
Castlegar: A Paddling Road-trip Itinerary
Embark on a scenic 3-day paddling trip through the heart of the Kootenays, exploring the stunning waterways around Castlegar, British Columbia. This adventure blends gentle river currents, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountain views for a relaxing, yet immersive, outdoor experience.
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Columbia River
The best part about paddling in Castlegar is you can do it right in the heart of the city because the Columbia River flows its way past the downtown core.
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Lower Arrow Lake
This is where the largest Kokanee fish in the world was caught. Need we say more?
The origin of the name was a cultural feature known as Arrow Rock on the east shore of Lower Arrow Lake, about 35 km upstream from Castlegar, opposite the community of Renata, a large rock outcrop or overhang above the water, in the face of which was a hole filled with arrows. Different stories surround the meaning of the arrows, said to be shot there by the Lakes people (Sinixt) for good luck, either before or after war
Meet the specialists Castlegar
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
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Castlegar Sculpturewalk
The Castlegar Sculpturewalk transforms downtown Castlegar into a vibrant outdoor art gallery, showcasing an exciting collection of contemporary sculptures by both local and international artists. This annual exhibition invites visitors to explore the city through the lens of public art, with each piece offering a unique perspective and creative expression. As you stroll through the walkable downtown core, don’t forget to vote for your favourite sculpture—the winner of the People’s Choice Award earns a permanent place in the city’s growing art collection.
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Endless Adventure – SUP Sturgeon Search
Endless Adventure offers thrilling rafting tours, kayak courses, paddleboard rentals, team building programs, and more in the beautiful Slocan Valley of British Columbia.
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Scotties Marina
Scotties Marina offers a scenic waterfront vacation rental suite, moorage, fuel, fishing derby, and kayak/paddle board rentals on the pristine Lower Arrow Lake.
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Discover the Secret Watery Realm of Castlegar
Imagine standing on a paddle board watching a prehistoric river giant swimming underneath your SUP. The clear waters in the Columbia River near Castlegar, BC, allow paddlers the chance to see groups…
The Search For BC’s Best Lake
Which body of water will win CBC’s Best Lake in BC Contest? We have some suggestions of what to vote for.
The Best Whitewater Rafting in British Columbia
The Kicking Horse is only one of many whitewater experiences that make British Columbia one of the best rafting destinations in the world.
