Single Itineary
The world's largest Kokanee salmon was caught here. 'Nuff said.
The 232-kilometre-long Arrow Lakes system, made up of the Upper and Lower lakes, runs through a lush valley nestled in the Selkirk Mountains. Near the southern terminus of Lower Arrow Lake is the city of Castlegar, which is famous for its angling and paddling offerings. The largest kokanee salmon in the world was caught on this lake, which is why so often you can spy kayakers, canoeists and even stand up paddleboarders trolling a fishing line behind them.
Know Before You Go!
Wear your lifejacket: It’s the most effective piece of safety equipment you can use while on the water. Most marine incidents occur quickly and without warning.
Be prepared: Carry the required safety equipment and ensure vessel preparedness. It could save your life on the water.
Be aware of cold water risks: The immediate effects of cold water immersion can be life-threatening.
Don’t drink and boat: For your own safety and the safety of others, you must be attentive and responsive.
Take a course: Familiarize yourself with the area and activity in which you are engaging.
-
Renata Natural Arch
This awe inspiring natural stone arch is a short hike up from the lake. The trail traverses across dry, steep slopes and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Rounding the last curve in the trail, the huge stone arch comes into sight. The view of it from the lake does not do justice to this amazing geological formation, which is 3m wide (10 feet), 6m (20 feet) thick and stretches 45 m (148 feet) across the gully. Launch from the beach at Deer Park, cross the lake (note that strong winds can sometimes blow up unexpectedly) just north of the mouth of Pup Creek look for the “Renata Natural Arch Recreation Trail” sign on the beach.
-
Scottie’s Marina
Situated between Robson and Syringa Park on the north shore of Lower Arrow Lake, Scotties Marina offers kayak and SUP rentals, a vacation suite, a store, and more.
-
Labarthe Tunnel
The Labarthe Tunnel is a former rail tunnel that predates the hydroelectric dams. Located on the south shore of Arrow Lake, across from Scottie’s Marina, the tunnel is 187 feet long or 57 metres. Most of the time it’s submerged during high water levels but if you time it right during lower water levels, you can paddle inside it.
Paddle pros
Here are the experts who will help perfect your paddling trip.
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn MoreExplore more in this community.
Every corner of BC has something unique to offer. From freshwater lakes on Vancouver Island to rafting on the whitewater of Squamish, you will never find a shortage of amazing paddling.
Project Partners
