Why a Metro Vancouver lake is the perfect summer water adventure

The Western Family Summer Guide is here to make summer fun and easy! Whether you’re having a BBQ, going on a picnic or road trip, planning a backyard dinner, or throwing an ice cream party, we’ve got everything you need to make this summer the best one yet.

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Summer is quickly passing us by, and while the warm temperatures are still with us, it’s the perfect time to try a new outdoor activity.

That was the mindset I was in when I recently visited Deer Lake Park in Burnaby to try pedal boating for the first time.

Water adventure seekers have plenty of options for aquatic rides at Deer Lake, including kayaks, rowboats, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are all available for rent.

But as this was my first time out on the water, I wanted to ease myself in. So I dropped by Deer Lake Boat Rentals to see what options they had for a newbie.

Deer Lake Boat Rentals has provided non-motorized boat rentals for over 50 years. The family-friendly service offers both reservations and waiver forms online, or guests can complete the rental paperwork in person at its building on the east side of the lake.

We arrived on a busy Saturday to discover a steady stream of kayakers, canoers, and fellow pedal boaters in line to rent their vessel.

Rental prices are by the hour and range from $29 for a one-person kayak to $49 for a canoe for four to five people. Personal flotation devices and the use of a waterproof dry bag are also complementary.

Our two-person pedal boat was bright yellow and had a steering handle right in the centre. There’s a little stowage room onboard, but you’ll probably want to keep any valuables at home or in the car.

We brought an umbrella to keep the sunshine off of us, and kept a smartphone nearby to snap photos of our voyage.

The Deer Lake Boat Rentals helped us into our craft and ensured we were on our way safely. It took a little getting used to steering the pedal boat, though we soon got the hang of pushing forward to go right and pulling back to go left.

We had to constantly monitor our boat’s movement to avoid the lily pads and other boaters.

And our knees definitely got a workout as we sailed around Deer Lake checking out the sights. Be prepared to pedal hard and work up a sweat to get to your destination.

Deer Lake is home to an array of wildlife, including blue herons, ducks, and rainbow trout. There are also plenty of Canadian geese relaxing on the beach.

The beautiful weather has brought out several fishers, who have staked out their favourite spots along the shore.

Shadbolt Arts Centre, home to theatrical productions and concerts throughout the year, can be seen in the distance.

And families and friends have gathered to enjoy a picnic lunch after completing a hike around Deer Lake. There are several paths and trails to choose from.

The best part of the day was seeing all of the other folks out on the water enjoying the sunshine and the natural beauty around us.

Whether you’re a newbie to water adventures or a seasoned pro of outdoor activities, a trip to Deer Lake is the perfect way to make the most of your summer.

Just make sure to bring the sunscreen and keep a firm grip on your camera.