Like many, I’d floor it through the region between the Okanagan and the coast when travelling through southern British Columbia. There never seemed to be a reason to stop unless my kids were doing their pee-pee dances in the back seat. In that case, I’d ask them to hold it until we hit the Blue Moose Café in Hope because they have excellent coffee and sandwiches, but paddling was never on my mind during this stretch. That changed this past year when I chanced upon Alleyne Lake south of Merritt. My God, what a colour! Who knew such a hue existed: it’s as if the turquoise water gobbled a bunch of magic mushrooms to make itself even more otherworldly.
My random stop by that placid, visually striking lake got me thinking about what other secret waterway gems can be found between the communities of Vernon and Hope in BC’s Southern Interior. After touching base with various paddling experts from such venues as the Vernon Paddling Centre and Reo Rafting Resort, I’ve compiled this list of best paddling spots. Am I missing any? Drop a line via the contact form to let me know.
Vernon: Start With Okanagan’s Crown Jewels
For this road trip, we kick things off in Vernon with a paddle on a definite showstopper: Kalamalka Lake. Famous for its shifting hues of blue and green, this glacial lake is an absolute dream to experience. Launch from Kekuli Bay or Kal Beach and enjoy warm water, mountain views, and access to cliffside shorelines and hidden coves. This one’s a must whether you’re on a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak.
If you’re in a wheelchair or have mobility challenges consider visiting the larger Okanagan Lake because Vernon Adaptive provides inclusive paddling equipment, instruction, and weekly sessions. The company operates out of the Vernon Paddling Centre, located on the lake, and is run by Jordan Keaton, a certified flat water instructor and recreation therapist who first brought wheelchair paddleboarding to Canada in 2014.
Merritt’s Lake Country: Small Lakes, Big Tranquility
As you head toward Merritt, don’t miss the opportunity to paddle the calm waters of Kentucky Alleyne Provincial Park. The twin lakes, Kentucky Lake and Alleyne Lake, are famed for their beautiful turquoise waters, and they’re just a few minutes off Highway 5A. These are relatively small lakes, but that makes them perfect for a relaxing afternoon paddle followed by a lakeside picnic or even an overnight campout.
Manning Park: Paddle the Mountains
As Highway 3 climbs into the Cascades, make time for a stop at Lightning Lake in Manning Provincial Park. This alpine lake is framed by dramatic mountain ridges and is a favourite for families and casual paddlers. It’s easily accessible from the day-use area, and its calm waters are ideal for SUPs, canoes, and kayaks.
Hope Area: Enjoy The Scenic Serenity
Just before reaching Hope, take a detour to Silver Lake Provincial Park, southwest of town. This small, quiet lake is surrounded by dense forest and steep slopes, giving it a wonderful off-grid feel. It’s a great spot for paddling, fishing, or simply floating under the shadows of towering trees.
Closer to Hope, take your paddle for another spin on Kawkawa Lake. This easily accessible lake is perfect for mellow floats and family-friendly fun. The surrounding Cascade Mountains are breathtaking to behold and if you go at dawn or dusk there’s a good chance you’ll see wildlife on the shoreline including deer, elk, bald eagles and ospreys.
Finale at REO Rafting: Go Out with a Splash
End your journey with a something completely different at REO Rafting, Glamping & Yoga Resort, located near Boston Bar on the Nahatlatch River. REO is one of the few whitewater rafting resorts in the country and it offers guided whitewater rafting through Class III and IV rapids during the day and chill, glamping vibes in the evenings. REO provides all the gear and guides, so even first-timers can jump in safely. It’s a wild, unforgettable way to wrap up your road trip.
The route from Vernon to Hope is more than just a scenic drive, it’s a perfect sampler of what makes paddling in BC so special. From Serene alpine lakes and sun-warmed waters to remote forest gems and roaring rivers, each stop offers something unique.
