Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
The River of Golden Dreams is a summertime classic. Our guides will teach you paddling skills and techniques as you begin your adventure paddling across the historic Alta Lake. You will paddle through flowing lilies and around bends of overhanging greenery as you learn about Whistler's history, flora and fauna.
Water levels are always changing and this tour is always an adventure, be it fast moving water in the spring or obstacles like beaver dams and a portage in late summer.
Duration: 3 Hours round trip
Ability: Moderate level of fitness required. Must be able to swim.
Minimum age to participate: 6+
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
All children (under 19) must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age to participate is 6 years of age.
ALL participants must be able to swim.
Operates in all weather conditions. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Swimsuit and activewear are recommended. Waterproof layers such as a shell jacket and pant in the event of inclement weather.
Wear footwear you don't mind getting wet; you will be in and out of the water. A short portage may be required depending on water levels.
We also recommend a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a bottle of water and insect repellant.
It is mandatory for all tour participants to sign a Release of Liability and Waiver Form. Any participants under the age of 19 must have a parent or legal guardian present to sign on their behalf.
Language: a conversational level of English is required to safely participate in Canoe tours
2 capable and strong paddlers required for each canoe. Please contact us if you would like to be in a canoe with a guide.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Professional guide
All necessary equipment
Round-trip transport from lodge to lake
GST
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Our guides will teach you the basic paddling skills required to steer your canoe across Alta Lake and down the River of Golden Dreams. Water levels are always changing and this tour is always an adventure, be it fast moving water in the spring or obstacles like beaver dams and a portage in late summer.
154 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dawn F,
Aug 12, 2025
- Viator
We had such a brilliant time, one of my holiday highlights. Ilona and Josh did a great job of looking after us all and helped us learn how to steer the canoes properly.....plus the odd beaver dam rescue! The river was stunning, with dragon flies darting around us and the mountains in the background. Loved, loved, loved!
Kosti Z,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
Awesome experience! We definitely recommend it. The views are stunning, the river and the lake are gorgeous. Calum, the guide, was very helpful.
Lucile B,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
The tour was very nice and staff friendly. Only negative note it took us longer than expected and this is not great when you have something planned after.
Theresa B,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
Awesome canoe trip down the River! Guide was friendly and knowledgeable! (Eli) Gorgeous scenery! Unforgettable!
Adriana S,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
We had the best time canoeing on River of Golden Dreams. Eli and George were fantastic tour guides, teaching us how to canoe, guiding us through tight areas of the river and keeping it fun! Would 100% recommend for the future and would love to come back.
Operated by Canadian Wilderness Adventures