They say the Cariboo has a lake for every day of the year — and once you’ve paddled a few, it’s easy to understand why. Some days I leaned into waves that tested my balance, other days I drifted across calm turquoise water without a ripple in sight. Each lake felt like its own adventure. Sulphurous stole the show for me, but every spot brought something different. And all without the crowds you’ll find in busier BC hotspots.
This summer, I visited family in 100 Mile House and spent some time on the water. A few mornings meant glassy, peaceful paddles, while afternoons often brought enough wind to keep things interesting. The variety here reminded me of growing up in Nova Scotia, where there really is a lake around every corner. I’d say the same hold true in the Cariboo!
For my trip, I used my Level Six Fourteen Carbon Inflatable SUP, a fast and lightweight inflatable board that covers distance with ease. At 14 feet long, it tracks beautifully across big lakes, while the carbon stringers keep it stiff and responsive like a hard epoxy board. I like that it packs down small for travel but still feels rock-solid on the water.
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SUP Map: Paddling Locations in the Cariboo Region (BC)
Top Stand Up Paddleboarding Lakes in the Cariboo Region
Paddleboarding in BC’s Cariboo region is a blend of big, wide-open lakes and smaller, tucked-away gems. You can lean into the wind and power through waves, while other days you’ll easily glide across turquoise water so calm it feels like glass. On my trip, every lake offered something different. Whether you’re looking for quiet time on the water or a bit of a challenge, the Cariboo has plenty of room to explore with your SUP.
Green Lake — One of the Biggest SUP Lakes in the Cariboo
Green Lake isn’t small, and you’ll notice it as soon as the wind picks up. I started out paddling into the chop, legs working hard just to stay balanced. The far east end around the island, though, was a different story — calm waters around the island where I could slow down. I do enjoy the workout of pushing through waves, but it was nice to drift in the stillness and even spot a deer swimming across to the island.
📍 Boat Launch: 51.441851, -121.103182
Bridge Lake — A Quiet SUP Spot in the Cariboo
Bridge Lake gave me one of my more adventurous paddles. I launched from a calm little bay, but within half an hour the breeze kicked up and I had to dig in with strong strokes to keep a straight line. I didn’t attach my carbon fin this time (I rarely do…), so balancing became a bit more of a core workout. It was tough, but still fun. Before the waves picked up, I watched a pair of loons dive and swim up closer to me. On calmer days, the islands scattered across the lake are worth exploring.
📍 Boat Launch: 51.4851, -120.7019
Greeny Lake — One of the Most Popular SUP Lakes in the Cariboo
Greeny Lake is a popular spot but it didn’t feel crowded once I was out on the water. The lake is small and sheltered with paved access right to the boat launch. I spent a couple of hours paddling with my family in their kayaks, drifting past lily pads and tracing the shoreline. I even “fell” in a couple of times to cool off — a great place for a swim! It was easy, and exactly what we needed for a hot summer afternoon!
📍 Boat Launch: 51.8543, -121.3510
Sulphurous Lake — Relaxed SUP Paddling in BC’s Cariboo Region
Sulphurous was the highlight of my trip. The clarity and turquoise tone of the water blew me away (kinda like something you’d expect in the Rockies). I traced the shoreline for a couple of hours, peering down into the clear depths and just soaking in the stillness. On my way back, the water became a bit rougher, but nothing too intense. If you only have time for one paddle in the Cariboo, I’d say this is the one.
📍 Boat Launch: 51.6405, -120.8189
Know Before You Go: SUP in BC’s Cariboo Region
Weather: Conditions can shift fast. Mornings and evenings are usually calmest, while afternoons often bring the chop.
Launch Access: Most lakes have solid vehicle access. Greeny is paved right to the lot, while Green and Bridge Lakes have multiple launches.
Gear: A stable all-around or touring SUP works best. Bring your PFD, leash, snack, and extra layers as Cariboo weather swings quickly. You may want a dry bag as well.
Safety: Stay close to shore if you’re unsure. Larger lakes like Green and Bridge can get rough in a hurry. Always bring a whistle and paddling safety gear.
Camping: All of these Cariboo lakes have nearby campgrounds — paddling by day and camping under the stars would be magic.
Why the Cariboo Region Is a Great Place for SUP
Paddling in the Cariboo left me with a real appreciation for how varied these lakes are. From the sheltered calm of Greeny to the turquoise clarity of Sulphurous, each one offers its own experience. If you’re planning to SUP here, bring along a bit of flexibility: the wind can change quickly, and some lakes demand a stronger paddle. But that’s part of the adventure. The Cariboo gives you space to test your skills, slow down when you want to, and discover lakes that you’ll remember long after you’ve packed up your board.
Are you planning to paddle in the Cariboo? Have you already explored these lakes on your SUP? What other lakes would you add to the list? Drop a comment below.
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
