Exploring Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows by water offers a calm, traffic-free way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. Whether you prefer canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, local waterways provide peaceful routes surrounded by stunning mountain views.
The Alouette River is a top choice for paddlers. This winding river flows through Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge, passing scenic farmland with breathtaking views of the Golden Ears Mountains. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented at Alouette Lake South Beach during good weather. Note that a day pass is required to enter the park in summer months.
Whonnock Lake hosts the Ridge Canoe and Kayak Club, which offers sprint paddling programs for youth and adults. The club boasts more than 100 boats, including Olympic-level sprint boats, beginner boats, recreational canoes and kayaks, and a dragon boat. This makes it an ideal place for both newcomers and serious paddlers.
Pitt Lake, found at the north end of Rannie Road, is one of the largest tidal lakes in the world. A boat launch is located in the Grant Narrows Pitt-Addington Marsh area, providing easy access. However, paddlers should be cautious of windy weather, which can make paddling challenging on this vast lake.
Just east of Maple Ridge, near Stave Falls and Silverdale in Mission, several more paddling options await. Hayward Lake and Stave Lake reservoirs are part of BC Hydro’s Stave River hydroelectric project but remain popular for recreational paddling. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be enjoyed here.
At Hayward Lake, motorized or electric motorboats are not allowed, making it perfect for quiet paddling. Stave Lake, located north of Dewdney Trunk Road, permits motorized boats. However, BC Hydro warns paddlers to watch for fluctuating water levels that may reveal shallow channels and hidden stumps. Floating debris is also a risk on Stave Lake.
These waterways offer peaceful escapes for paddlers of all skill levels. From gentle river routes to large tidal lakes, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows provide a perfect setting to enjoy nature from the water.
