Find your zen or your thrill on Revy's lakes, rivers and streams.
Revelstoke is a water lover’s playground! If there is one thing that goes with epic snowfall, it’s epic run off. As the seasons change and the temperatures rise, the rivers and lakes around Revelstoke swell up with crisp, refreshing mountain water. Swim in Williamson Lake, paddleboard on Lake Revelstoke, drift down the Columbia in a canoe or experience the thrill of whitewater in the Illecillewaet River. Rentals and excursions are available for any ability or level of thirst for adventure!
The Revelstoke Paddlesport Association brings together nomadic paddlers of Revelstoke. They host the annual Revelstoke Paddlesport Challenge and Jordan River Festival.
If you are traveling north of Revelstoke on Highway 23 North, please be aware that there is a slop stabilization project at the Revelstoke Dam.
- Closures will start at 7:30 am and end at 6:30 pm.
- The highway will be opened on the hour and half hour (every 30 minutes) from 8:00 am with the last scheduled opening at 6:00 pm
- Starting at 6:30 pm the highway will be open to regular traffic until the next morning.
Beginner
Lake Revelstoke is prime for easy canoe, SUP or flat water kayak adventures. There are a number of great spots to launch that give you the opporunity to explore small waterfalls and creekmouths. Rentals are available in town Williamson Lake is a great spot for swimming, with the warmest water in town and a great raft to swim to.
Intermediate
If you're comfortable without a guide, rent a canoe or kayak and check out Lake Revelstoke, the Columbia River or upper Arrow Lake. There are waterfalls and inlets around every bend giving you plenty of places to explore. Be aware of fluctuating water levels due to the dam.
Expert
If you're a whitewater kayaker, Revelstoke is full of frothy runs. The lower Jordan River is a great class II run, while the Illecillewaet's Box Canyon goes up to class V. You can also check out the Upper Jordan, the Pingston and a number of other popular rivers in the area. Connect with the Revelstoke Paddlesport Association for more information.
Water sport providers
250-837-2679
Location
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Clean, Drain, Dry
EVERY TIME you move your watercraft to a new lake or river! CLEAN off all plant parts, animals, and mud from boat and equipment (e.g. boots, waders, fishing gear). Use power wash station if available. DRAIN onto land all items that can hold water (e.g. buckets, wells, bilge, and ballast). DRY all items completely before launching into another body of water.
Resources for boaters