
Paddle the Gorge Waterway Urban Nature, Tidal Adventure
Flowing through the heart of Victoria, the Gorge Waterway is a stunning paddle route that blends calm waters, vibrant ecosystems, and unique tidal currents. It’s perfect for both relaxed flatwater paddling and dynamic, tide-tuned adventures—just minutes from downtown.
Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned water explorer, Paddle’n’Go offers 3 convenient drop-off locationstailored to your experience level and paddling goals.
What Makes the Gorge Special?
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Calm flatwater in the upper waterway (ideal for beginners)
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Fast-moving tides below Tillicum Narrows for thrill-seekers
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Urban beauty meets natural shoreline, with parks, docks, and wildlife
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Deep Indigenous significance—home to Kosapsum, a traditional Lekwungen village site
🚩 Your Launch Options:
1. Kosapsum Park (Craigflower) – Explore the Upper Gorge
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Protected, beginner-friendly section of the waterway
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Paddle past quiet shoreline, Craigflower Schoolhouse, and historic landmarks
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Great for family outings, nature watching, and relaxing solo sessions
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Easy beach access and parking available
🛶 Perfect for beginners and casual paddlers.
2. Victoria Canoe & Kayak Club (Burnside-Gorge)
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Launch from this central paddling hub
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Enjoy a smooth cruise through the trestle bridge, under leafy overhangs
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Great for groups, team-building, and intermediate paddlers
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Ideal for those looking to practice skills or take a guided session
🛶 Located mid-waterway—great for access up or downstream.
3. Banfield Park Dock (Vic West) – Lower Gorge & Tidal Thrills
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Launch below the Tillicum Narrows, where the Gorge becomes tidal
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Paddle toward the Inner Harbour or explore bridges and city-facing scenery
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Expect stronger current depending on tides — ideal for experienced paddlers
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Access to ocean-connected waters, seals, and seabirds
⚠️ Understanding Tillicum Narrows
The Tillicum Narrows (beneath the Tillicum Road Bridge) act as a natural tidal choke point between the upper and lower Gorge.
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At high tide, ocean water rushes into the upper Gorge
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At low tide, it reverses—water drains out toward the Inner Harbour
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At peak flow, it creates fast currents, swirls, and standing waves
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Slack tide (the pause between incoming/outgoing tides) is the safest time to paddle near or through the narrows
🔎 Check tide charts (e.g., TideForecast.com – Victoria) or use apps like Tides Near Me to plan your route safely.
How Paddle’n’Go Works on the Gorge
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📅 Book online and select your launch site
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🚚 We deliver your gear to Kosapsum Park, VCKC, or Banfield Park
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🏄 Paddle on your schedule, then return gear to the drop-off location
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🧑🏫 Optional guided tours available for upper or lower Gorge routes
Paddle Smart:
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Always wear a PFD
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Avoid the narrows during fast tide flow unless you are confident in currents
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Respect wildlife and local residents—this is shared water
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Bring your camera—sunsets and shoreline reflections are spectacular!
Discover the Gorge like never before—from the calm quiet of Kosapsum Park to the tidal energy of Tillicum Narrows, Paddle’n’Go gives you the freedom to explore Victoria’s most fascinating waterway.
👉 Book your self-serve rental or guided tour today.
