Explore Elk Lake & Beaver Lake – A Paddle Adventure in Nature

Discover the calm, scenic waters of Elk Lake and Beaver Lake—a perfect getaway for paddleboarders and kayakers of all levels. Just 25 minutes from downtown Victoria, this connected lake system offers beautiful forested shorelines, wildlife viewing, and easy access to nature.

🛶 Elk Lake – Calm Waters with a Bit of Everything

Elk Lake is the larger of the two lakes and is popular for recreational activities, including rowing, paddling, and motorboating. While motorized boats are permitted, they are typically limited to rowing clubs, small fishing boats, and occasional recreational use—making most areas of the lake calm enough for a relaxing paddle.

Why Paddle Elk Lake?

✅ Scenic & Spacious: Paddle along forested edges, open bays, and hidden coves. The lake stretches over 4 km long, giving you room to roam.
✅ Wildlife Friendly: Spot herons, ducks, ospreys, and the occasional otter along the shoreline.
✅ Great for All Levels: Beginners enjoy the flatwater conditions, while more experienced paddlers can explore farther reaches of the lake.

Beaver Lake – A Quiet, Nature-Filled Experience

Connected to Elk Lake by a short channel, Beaver Lake is a smaller and more sheltered paddling area, perfect for wildlife lovers and peaceful solo trips. This side of the park is less trafficked, giving paddlers a real sense of immersion in nature.

Best Launch Spot: Hamsterly Beach

For paddlers using Paddle’n’Go rentals, Hamsterly Beach is the most convenient and comfortable access point on Elk Lake.

Why Hamsterly Beach?

🚗 Ample Parking: Easy access with a spacious parking lot steps from the water.
🚻 Washrooms On-Site: Includes public restrooms and change facilities.
🏖 Family-Friendly Beach: Gentle entry, sand and grass areas, shaded picnic spots, and a perfect launch point for paddleboards and kayaks.
📍 Our Paddle Locker is Located Here: Your gear will be ready lakeside with no need to haul equipment.

🧭 What You Should Know Before You Paddle

🛶 Wear a PFD (lifejacket) and bring a whistle — both are required by law.
🌬 Watch the Wind: Mornings are calmest; afternoons can bring breeze or chop.
🐦 Respect Wildlife: These lakes are rich with birds and small mammals. Paddle quietly near shorelines and avoid nesting areas.
🔥 No open fires and no motorized craft allowed near the beach zones.
🧽 Leave no trace: Please pack out your garbage and help keep the lakes clean.

Paddle’n’Go Makes It Easy

Book online and unlock your gear right at Hamsterly Beach with our self-serve locker system. Everything you need is ready and waiting—so you can spend less time prepping and more time paddling.

For more information click here.