21 Best Places to Go Kayaking in Canada
Canada has more coastline and waterways than any other country in the world. This makes it a prime destination for kayakers who want to explore its many rivers, lakes, and seas.
Kayaking is also a great way to enjoy Canada’s natural beauty, which features everything from towering mountains to pristine forests.
I was born and raised in Canada. I usually kayak outside of Canada, but since returning in 2020, I’ve been challenging myself to paddle more of Canada’s lakes, beyond Lake Muskoka.
If you’re looking for the best places to go kayaking in Canada, here are 17 of the best spots.
21 Best Places to Kayak in Canada
1. Lake Louise, Alberta
This is one of the most beautiful places in all of Canada and is unsurprisingly a very popular destination for tourists.
Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park in Alberta and is world-renowned for its emerald waters and glacier-capped mountains.
Most people paddle around the lake itself, which is about 3km long.
For a longer trip, you can paddle to nearby Moraine Lake, which is about 6km away.
There are many different companies that offer kayaking tours on Lake Louise as well as canoe and SUP rentals if you feel like going out on your own. The best time to kayak here is from June to September when the water is warmer and there are fewer crowds.

2. Johnstone Strait, British Columbia
Johnstone Strait is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Canada, located in British Columbia between Vancouver Island and the mainland.
The strait is about 80km long and is known for its beautiful scenery, wildlife, and challenging paddling conditions.
Most people paddle Johnstone Strait as part of a multi-day trip, camping along the way.
On a kayak in Johnstone Strait, you’re likely to see killer whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and other wildlife.
There are many different tour companies that offer kayaking trips in Johnstone Strait, as well as rental companies if you feel like going out on your own. Read More…