Deep Cove by Kayak - Indian Arm Provincial Park

When the sun is shining and the water is calm there is no better city escape than kayaking out of  Deep Cove, just minutes outside of Vancouver.  Indian Arm Provincial Park protects the shores of this amazing 18 kilometer fjord extending from Burrard Inlet in Vancouver.

Deep Cove, British Columbia

We began our day with an early start launching our kayaks from the beach area at the Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak beach front centre.  Conditions were absolutely perfect - a slight cloud cover, no wind, flat water  and tides in our favour.  We slowly paddled out of Deep Cove enjoying the views of the waterfront homes and the marina.  A few rowers and paddle boarders were also on the water sharing that early morning feeling of bliss!

Exploring the shoreline

We did not have time to paddle to the estuary at the end of the arm, but we did enjoy the trip up Indian Arm past Camp Jubilee and Silver Falls toward Bishop Creek.

Silver Falls - Spectacular!

On our return we crossed the arm and enjoyed a slow leisurely paddle exploring the shoreline.  The salmon were jumping...and the seals were feasting!  We spent several minutes watching a seal catch and devour his lunch.  We passed the old BC Hydro power plant and marvelled at the granite cliffs and majestic forest looming beside us.

BC Hydro Power Plant

The water was calm so we had a great view of the sea life below.  The wildlife viewing on the Arm is a treat.  The area features black bear, deer, coyotes, racoons and cougars - just to name a few.  It is also well known for bird watching and of course the tide pools are always fascinating to explore as they abound with life.

Underwater camera catches the vibrant colours of life below!

The paddle ended all too quickly as we returned to Deep Cove.  We were thrilled to see numerous families renting boats and heading out to begin their paddling adventure on Indian Arm.  It just doesn't get much better than this!

Giggle of the day:

We decided to paddle over to Twin Island to stretch our legs and enjoy a short hike and snack break.  As we approached the island we could hear a very loud rumbling....not thunder but the sounds of campers from Camp Jubilee loading up their voyageur canoes for the return trip to base camp.  We enjoyed watching the controlled chaos from afar and wisely chose to land at South Twin Island.....far enough from the campers to be out of the way but close enough to share in the giggles as the team of young paddlers and their fearless leaders tried to navigate their way back to camp.

Map and Route tips:

The winds usually pick up early afternoon as they sweep up Indian Arm.  Be sure to check your tide tables and marine forecast before heading out.  High winds and an incoming tide can really make the paddle back to Deep Cove quite a challenge!



For those wanting longer trips, marine camp sites are available at Twin Island, Granite Falls and Bishop Creek.  We have enjoyed many an evening camping on the arm!

Granite Falls - Marine Campsite