Stunning Lakes and Rivers to Explore in British Columbia This Summer

British Columbia is home to incredible freshwater settings that are havens for outdoor summer recreation and relaxation. As we enter the warmest months of the year, let’s look at the top lakes and rivers in British Columbia.

While Garibaldi Lake might not be the best place to go for a dip, on account of its cold, glacier-fed waters, there’s no question that it is one of the most stunning lakes in Canada. Located in the Coast Mountains in Garibaldi Provincial Park along a volcanic plug, this alpine lake has taken on a deep turquoise color due to glacier sediment, called glacial flour. Reaching this gorgeous lake requires a substantial hike through the park, but it is well worth it.

Kootenay Lake, a scenic lake surrounded by densely forested mountains, is known as an incredible spot for outdoor recreation. The lake, surrounded by numerous boat launches on the water, is great for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also fish for salmon, sturgeon, and mountain whitefish, or look for wild bears and other species of wildlife on land. 

Okanagan Lake runs through the Okanagan Valley by major cities, including Kelowna and Penticton. The lake is best known for its many sandy beaches, and over 30 of these beaches are open to the public. The lake has many marinas, boat launches, and rental areas, so getting out on the water is never a hassle.

While much of the Columbia River is in the United States, this massive body of water, one of the biggest rivers on the continent, begins in British Columbia’s Rocky Mountains. The Columbia River is one of the most significant natural sites in British Columbia, and visitors can enjoy beautiful parks along the water and an incredible Rocky Mountain backdrop. It is a top river for fishing, home to sturgeon, trout, and bass. 

Shuswap Lake is a vast recreational destination in the southern region of British Columbia. Houseboating, involving staying on the water in a residential boat, is one of the most common activities at Shuswap Lake. The lake is an excellent place for fishing, housing populations of salmon, burbot, and whitefish, and water sports enthusiasts particularly enjoy wakeboarding and waterskiing on the water. 

Eva Lake is a gorgeous lake in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Reaching this lake is a journey, but with clear, sparkling blue waters and a jaw-dropping alpine setting, it is worth the effort. A 15-kilometer round-trip hike is a terrific way to see this lake, and on the way, you will spot meadows filled with wildflowers and incredible mountain views. 

The Fraser River is the longest river in British Columbia. Its headwaters lie in the Canadian Rocky Mountains along the border with Alberta, and the river reaches all the way south of Vancouver, cutting through much of the province’s geography. The Fraser River is a prime destination for anglers, known for being one of the top places in Canada for salmon fishing, and adrenaline seekers enjoy whitewater rafting on its incredible waters.