Water Sports In Chilliwack
Chilliwack, BC is one of the Fraser Valley’s top destinations for water sports, with access to world-class rivers, pristine alpine lakes, and warm summer beaches all within a short drive. Whether you’re chasing the adrenaline of white-water rafting on the Chilliwack River, parasailing above Cultus Lake, or cruising the water on a jet ski or hydrofoil, there’s no shortage of ways to get on the water. Families, thrill-seekers, and first-timers alike will find guided experiences and rentals available throughout the season — typically May through September — making Chilliwack one of the best places in British Columbia to enjoy outdoor water activities.
Looking to Avoid the Crowds?
Here’s Some Advice from the Locals!
Vedder River
Chilliwack Lake
Weekdays at Cultus Lake
The Vedder River offers a refreshing escape from the busier local spots. With multiple spots with gently flowing waters, shaded trails, and ample space along the riverbanks, it’s the perfect place to spend a fall evening while enjoying a bit of peace and quiet. Whether you’re wading in the water, casting a line, or simply relaxing under the trees, the Vedder provides a more laid-back alternative to crowded lakes—making it a hidden gem for those seeking both solitude and scenery. Find one of the many places to park and just walk along the Vedder Rotary Trail or along the banks until you find your spot.
WHERE TO PARK:
Bottom of Bridlewood Trail: Navigate Here
Vedder Park: Navigate here
Peach Park: Navigate here
Lickman Vedder Parking Lot: Navigate here
Chilliwack Lake is a stunning alpine destination that’s well worth the scenic drive. Surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest, the lake’s crystal-clear waters offer a peaceful retreat. While the water tends to stay refreshingly cold—okay, maybe REALLY cold in the fall—it only adds to the invigorating charm of this remote gem. Ideal for those seeking nature at its most raw and beautiful, Chilliwack Lake delivers a true escape into the wild. There are no motors allowed on the lake adding to its superb serenity.
For a more relaxed experience at Cultus Lake, consider visiting on a weekday. While it’s a popular destination year-round, weekdays tend to be quieter, offering more space to enjoy the lake, scenic trails, and vibrant beachfront.
Know Before you Go
Wear your Lifejacket: It’s the most effective piece of safety equipment you can use while on the water. Most marine incidents occur quickly and without warning. Cultus lake has life jackets that you can borrow for free. Check it out!
Be Prepared: Carry the required safety equipment and ensure vessel preparedness. It could save your life on the water. Please note that many of our beloved water areas in Chilliwack have NO CELL SERVICE.
Be Aware of Cold Water Risks: The immediate effects of cold water immersion can be life-threatening.
Don’t Drink and Boat: For your own safety and the safety of others, you must be attentive and responsive.
Take a Course: Familiarize yourself with the area and activity in which you are engaging.
Protecting This Gift
Please Respect Our Water – Minimize Your Impact And Pack Out Your Waste
To help keep Chilliwack’s lakes and rivers clean and safe for all, please do not litter. Many water access points and shorelines do not have garbage or recycling bins—always pack out what you pack in. Water and weather conditions can change quickly, so check forecasts, wear a lifejacket, and be prepared with the right gear. Chilliwack’s watersport scene continues to grow, and it’s up to all of us to treat these natural spaces with care. Stay within designated launch areas and avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation, which plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and dress in layers suitable for wind or cooler temperatures on the water.
Tourism Ch’illiwack is striving to be the force for transformation. We believe a destination brand can inspire value change. Protecting this Gift is not only a brand aspiration but a human aspiration.
Cell phone coverage is unreliable in many of these areas. Please plan ahead!
Experience Chilliwack This Summer
Get Outside!
Your Questions Answered
FAQs About Water Sports in Chilliwack
What water sports are available in Chilliwack, BC?
Chilliwack’s rivers and lakes offer something for every kind of water lover. Take on the rapids with guided white-water rafting on the Chilliwack River, or head to Cultus Lake for boat rentals, jet skiing, waterskiing, parasailing, hydroflight, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For a quieter pace, cast a line along the Vedder River, or paddle the cold, clear waters of Chilliwack Lake.
Where can I go white-water rafting near Chilliwack?
White-water rafting near Chilliwack is offered by Chilliwack River Rafting on the Chilliwack River. Guided trips are available year-round for a range of experience levels, making it one of the most popular outdoor adventure activities in the Fraser Valley.
Can you rent a jet ski or boat in Chilliwack?
Yes — jet ski, hydrofoil (hydroflight), and boat rentals are available through Cultus Lake Marina. Rentals are typically available during the summer season from May through September.
Is there parasailing in Chilliwack?
Yes. Parasailing tours are offered at Cultus Lake through Cultus Lake Marina, giving riders aerial views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s suitable for beginners and no prior experience is required.
Can you swim in Chilliwack Lake?
Yes, swimming is permitted at Chilliwack Lake. The water is cold — fed by mountain snowmelt — but the lake offers a stunning, remote setting surrounded by peaks and old-growth forest. No motorized boats are allowed on the lake, keeping it peaceful and quiet.
What is the Kids Don’t Float life jacket program at Cultus Lake?
The Kids Don’t Float program provides free loaner life jackets at stations located around Cultus Lake. It’s designed to improve water safety for families by ensuring children and adults have access to properly fitting lifejackets at no cost.
How do I avoid the crowds at Cultus Lake?
Visiting Cultus Lake on a weekday is the best way to avoid peak crowds. Alternatively, the Vedder River and Chilliwack Lake offer more peaceful settings with fewer visitors, while still providing excellent swimming and scenic beauty.
Is there cell service at water areas in Chilliwack?
Cell phone coverage is unreliable or unavailable at many of Chilliwack’s lakes and river access points, including Chilliwack Lake and parts of the Vedder River. Visitors are strongly advised to plan ahead, download offline maps, and carry the appropriate safety gear before heading out.
What safety equipment do I need for water sports in Chilliwack?
Wearing a lifejacket is required and strongly recommended for all on-water activities. Visitors should also carry Transport Canada-required safety equipment, be aware of cold water immersion risks, avoid alcohol on the water, and check weather and water conditions before heading out.
