NAVIGATE YOUR CANOE DOWN A RIVER

What exemplifies “Canadian summer fun” more than paddling a canoe across a lake with dramatic views, and down a mountain stream past a beaver dam and lush, green forests and wildflower-lined banks? In Whistler, the most popular way to enjoy such an experience is with a paddle down the River of Golden Dreams. Several companies offer guided tours that take around three hours, including approximately 2.5 hours on the water. The Canadian Wilderness Adventures (CWA) tour can accommodate between two and 40 guests aged 6 and above. All safety equipment is included, and guests will receive instruction on the strokes needed to manoeuvre their tandem canoes down the river, which winds its way from Alta Lake toward the take-out just past Meadow Park. CWA takes guests across Alta Lake past the original site of Rainbow Lodge, which was operated by Myrtle and Alex Philip (who gave the River of Golden Dreams its name) starting in 1914. Once on the river, there is a beaver dam and another section where paddlers might need to “portage” their canoes — i.e., lift boats out of the water and carry them a short distance downstream. There are some twisty sections, and depending on water levels, the river can be a bit pushy, requiring paddlers to use the proper strokes to manoeuvre the canoe, said Kristal Taylor, CWA sales and marketing manager. “We do recommend a guide, as it’s not as easy as some might think.” canadianwilderness.com Backroads Whistler also offers private guided and self-guided River of Golden Dreams canoe and kayak tours. Guests taking one of the self-guided tours should have some river-paddling experience, and all paddlers receive an orientation session at the starting point at Lakeside Park. There are several daily departure times for the Backroads Whistler tours, and transportation is provided back to Whistler Village, or to Lakeside Park where you can enjoy the beach and picnic area. backroadswhistler.com