In Squamish, we have always known about how great the Ashlu is as whitewater stream, with its amazing granite canyons, great views, and spectacular whitewater. Though paddlers here have always wanted to showcase the stream, we didn't really get the momentum, and the required mass going in the Squamish club until 2004.

Along the way we were motivated by the threat of a power project on the river, and by the tactics of the developer, both of which provided plenty of impetus to raise awareness about the threat, and about the value of the stream.

The event is co-hosted by the Squamish Whitewater Paddlers and the Whitewater Kayaking Association of BC

August 24 - 27, 2006

Wow - once more a hugely successful event !

For the 2006 Ashlu Festival we wanted to have better shuttles, a more efficient way to load boats, an improved BBQ, and a pancake breakfast. We think we got all of those things - and more people to top it off.

Our thanks to all those who made the event a success !

You can check out the 2006 festival images here.

More information about the festival, and the Ashlu

Festival Information

Why is the Ashlu Special

2005 - Another great turn-out

The 2005 Ashlu Festival promised to be better than the 2004 event - and delivered a slalom race, canoeing clinics, a guided Herb Walk, and more. We made lots of improvements, and had many more people attend.

You can check out the 2005 festival images here.

2004 - the first year - and amazing support !

The 2004 Ashlu Festival was an outrageous success. It was the inaugural year for the event, and we were overwhelmed by the response from the paddling community. We thank all of those who came out to support our efforts, and we also thank all of the sponsors who contributed so freely to the event.