Wild Root Journeys
Guided Kayak Journeys on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, British ColumbiaWild Root Journeys
Guided Kayak Journeys on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia
2026 dates coming soon!!
We are so excited to share our dates soon, private bookings are also still available!Reach out to us today to ask questions.
JOIN US FOR A GUIDED KAYAK TRIP ALONG THE BEAUTIFUL BC COASTLINE
DAY AND MULTI-DAY GUIDED KAYAK TRIPS ON VANCOUVER ISLAND AND THE BC COAST.
We look forward to sharing space. Let’s paddle, feast, and take in all that nature has to offer.
We value the richness of traveling through our environment, self propelled. Here we are reminded, once again, to move with our environment. All of our guides are certified through the Sea Kayak Guide Alliance of BC, with ongoing first aid and skills training. Wild Root Journeys values having high quality gear that is purchased from local companies including our sea kayaks, paddles, drybags and more!
We pride ourselves in running several LGBTQ2S specific trips with diverse guides.
Return to nature, self and community.
Wild Root Journeys offers guides with experience and heart. Our goal is to open doors into nature for those seeking out adventure, time to recharge and growth.

We value the richness of traveling through our environment, self propelled. Here we are reminded, once again, to move with our environment.We pride ourselves in running several LGBTQ2S specific trips with diverse guides.We are always happy to answer questions as they help you in your journey.

Return to Nature. Return to Self. Return to Community.
CHOOSE YOUR KAYAK ADVENTURE
Ask about our Family, and Private rates, and our LGBTQ tours.
DAY JOURNEYS
MULTI-DAY JOURNEYS
3 Days Jervis Inlet, 4- 6 Days Broken Group Islands, 6 Days God’s Pocket on the coast and Vancouver Island
CLINICS
Meet Silke Hockemeyer
Owner and SKGABC Level 3 Lead Guide
My greatest lessons have come from being immersed in nature and seeking out the symbolism that is all around us. While kayaking, everything just slows down, and if we allow for it, we can begin to find our pace amongst it. Here, we begin to truly replenish ourselves. The coast of British Columbia really offers experiences for the soul.
Wild Root Blog
Tips, stories and reflections from time spent kayaking in British Columbia
A Complete “What to Wear Kayaking Review” for the Pacific Northwest
by Silke | October 30, 2020 | The How To's to Kayaking | 4 Comments
TripAdvisor Raves
- Voyager59326011/03/2023
A Trip Like No Other I want to express my deep gratitude to Silke, Kailey and Wild Root Journeys for the incredible experiences I have had on both the Broughton Archipelago and the Nuchalitz Islands kayaking trips. Wild Root Journey is a gem of a company. Previous reviews about the food, superb equipment and lessons are all true. However, I want to comment on what I experienced, such as the day we floated down the inlet with our eyes closed, listening to the sounds of the birds, or the joy and awe of seeing whales in the distance or the porpoises splashing, playing and racing in the water close to our camp one night. These are the experiences that I think about many times. Silke knows what is important and tries to give every member of the group an adventure that is like no other.read moreread less - Jean S9/24/2023
Meditative and Skillful Kayak guides Silke and Kailey were wonderful guides making for a thoughtful and uplifting trip. We paddled the Broken Group over 4 days and enjoyed calm water, moments of reflection, and a handful of wildlife sightings. I had never been sea kayaking or kayak camping before and they handled the logistics and teaching to make sure everyone stayed safe, including packing sufficient drinking water and food for the whole group and ensuring we had shelter in a significant but thankfully brief rainstorm. They often referenced First Nations people and mentioned that they have control over these waters and have welcomed the return of recreational kayaking after the pandemic. We saw numerous oysters, crabs, snails (including giant moon snail!), and caught glimpses of humpback whales, a seal, and a black bear. Meals were delicious and healthy and they readily accommodated me as a pescatarian. Do fill out the pre-trip questionnaire which will come by email so that they can plan appropriately. They were happy to teach me some basics about navigation and planning and I felt comfortable on other sea kayak rentals and classes later in my trip.read moreread less - susangarygraf9/01/2022
Enjoyed every minute Gods Pocket 6 day. Fabulous. Quality. Equipment, food, local knowledge and especially smart and safe decision making along the way. Silke sets a high bar for guiding. Energy, sensitivity and expertise. We are a mid 70s couple and enjoyed the whole trip. Our second tour with Silke.read moreread less - Ulrike H8/14/2022
Fantastic Broughton Archipelago Kayaking in the Broughton Archipelago was our 3rd trip with Wild Root Journeys. It can hardly get any better. The company guides with excellent knowledge about the natural world and the respect for the indigenous population and culture. The equipment is top notch, the food was delicious, the group was harmonious and supportive. The weather was on the cool side in early June, and I learned that it helps to keep socks on in my water shoes to keep warmth in my feet. The water is so clear and offers this beautiful view into the underwater world. Different wild life showed up every day . The changing weather with low clouds and silhouettes of Islands, with raindrops hitting the flat ocean surface, to brilliant colours and amazing sunsets, every day was special. Apparently I have to experience God's Pocket to see more of the extraordinary marine wildlife next. I hope I can! Definitely recommend this company, Thanks Silke for the experience!read moreread less - Lang E7/15/2022
Amazing Trip in the Broughton's We had an amazing trip through the Broughton Islands. Scenery and wildlife was astounding. Silke is an amazing guide. She ranks tops in all categories, planning, navigation, group dynamics, safety and so on. The food was delicious and plentiful. The gear was top notch. This was our 4th trip with WRJ. We can't wait for our next one.read moreread less - Lori3/26/2022
A dream trip to Gods pocket! I went on a 6 day guided kayak tour to God's Pocket with Wild Root Journeys. I can say this one of the of the most beautiful adventures of my life. I loved how quiet and serene the area was. This is not a bustling tourist hotspot, and the wildlife experiences were exceptional. The marine life was healthier than almost anywhere I've been. Our guides were wonderful, organized, grounded and a lot of fun. I would go back for the wonderful meals alone, and I hope to! 🙂read moreread less - Voyage2582278/26/2021
Nature Oriented Kayaking Trip Broken Islands My daughter and I joined the Wild Root Journeys kayaking trip in the Broken Group Islands from July 9 to 12th. As Barb noted in another review Silke and Bill were great in making us all feel cared for and safe and yes, the food was great. We live in BC and I have kayaked a fair amount in the southern gulf islands. That said, I was impressed by the knowledge of both guides and my kayaking paddle technique has definitely improved with their advise. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who likes kayaking and wants to explore the beautiful rainforest eco system of the Broken Island with thoughtful, nature oriented guides. Thank you Silke.read moreread less - 230barbarak7/22/2021
Wonderful experience in a special place Wild Root Journeys provided a beautiful, unforgettable 4 days in the Broken Group Islands.
Guides Silke and Bill kept the vibe relaxed and friendly. Their meticulous organization, knowledge and skills meant we always felt cared for and safe, even as novice kayakers. Gear was top-notch and the food was pretty awesome too!
A wonderfully immersive adventure in a stunning part of the world. Highly recommended!!read moreread less - Barbara K7/22/2021
Wonderful way to experience a special place Wild Root Journeys provided a beautiful, unforgettable experience. Guides Silke and Bill kept the vibe relaxed and friendly. Their meticulous organization, knowledge and skills meant we always felt cared for and safe, even as novice kayakers. Gear was top-notch and the food was pretty awesome too! A wonderfully immersive adventure in a stunning part of the world - highly recommended!read moreread less - 78megj7/20/2021
Epic Old Growth Trees I just returned from yet another incredible time way out there with Wild Root Journeys. This trip was my first coming out of the isolation and social limitations of this COVID-time, and I have returned feeling more rejuvenated than I have in the past year and a half.
The areas that we accessed were remote and quiet but for people who appreciate the quiet, as well. We had a wonderful group of folks on the trip, and as the days went on, we all settled into being a part of the nature we were journeying through. It was spectacular, and comfortable, and delicious. Wild Root Journeys has the most cozy chairs, tents, and sleep mats, and all their gear is top of the line and well cared for.
I plan to continue to get out for a multi-day paddle trip every year with the folks at WRJ..every time I see new things (the Old Growth Trees in the Broken Group Islands are breathtaking), meet great people, and learn new ways of engaging with the earth. Every year, there are just so many reasons to say YES!read moreread less - 78megj3/26/2021
Heart Centered and Ecologically Aware. The crew at Wild Root Journeys are heart-centered and ecologically-aware, they tread lightly and have developed a wonderful balance of getting us where we need to go safely, and having a beautiful, relaxing time exploring along the way.
I loved paddling along the shoreline and learning about all the sea creatures. It was amazing to eat a fish that we caught that same day, and to listen to the sea lions bark away.
I really enjoyed hearing stories of the Indigenous history, presence, and connection to the land and sea and everything in between. WRJ has been building relationship in the areas that they paddle for many years, and I could feel that. It was assuring to know and feel that I was paddling with someone who was truly welcome in the area.
Every journey I have paddled with Wild Root has brought me to a whole nother world; an experience that is more and more challenging to find these days.
I am so excited to get out there and paddle with WRJ again!read moreread less - 981ulrikeh7/26/2020
I am hooked on experiencing the marine world in this way I have just returned from a 4 day trip into Desolation Sound with Wild Root Journeys and it was an amazing experience. A long time dream come true. I am not an experiences paddler, but Silke's clear instructions made me comfortable in the kayak and made me experience the strength in my body I wasn't sure I had. Great equipment is provided, from storage bags to tents to kayaks. Silke provided excellent guidance, fantastic food, humour, and lots of sanitation in the time of COVID. She is extremely respectful of the nature we were in, and shared her knowledge of the area geographically and culturally. Smart decision making on the spot to account for changes in the weather, the wind, the currents, she really made us feel at easy even when the waters became a bit rougher. We moved with purpose! Thank you Silke and Kaily for your company, your joy and your ability to embrace everybody with ease and comfort. I want to go out again with you to explore the outer coast!read moreread less - lorirro6/25/2020
The best dose of self care! This is how I wish all guided trips were!! Silke is simply wonderful! Our day out was the perfect experience for the times. Such a beautiful reminder about the necessity of simple time spent in nature. It was soul nourishing and I'm glad we all booked ourselves some self care during this time. Silke is kind, funny, in flow and a pleasure to be around. Totally trust her and her knowledge out on the water, and appreciate her easy flow. She kept the group light and the smiles coming. Thank you so much!!read moreread less
TripAdvisor Raves
- Voyager593260
A Trip Like No Other I want to express my deep gratitude to Silke, Kailey and Wild Root Journeys for the incredible experiences I have had on both the Broughton Archipelago and the Nuchalitz Islands kayaking trips. Wild Root Journey is a gem of a company. Previous reviews about the food, superb equipment and lessons are all true. However, I want to comment on what I experienced, such as the day we floated down the inlet with our eyes closed, listening to the sounds of the birds, or the joy and awe of seeing whales in the distance or the porpoises splashing, playing and racing in the water close to our camp one night. These are the experiences that I think about many times. Silke knows what is important and tries to give every member of the group an adventure that is like no other.11/03/2023 - Jean S
Meditative and Skillful Kayak guides Silke and Kailey were wonderful guides making for a thoughtful and uplifting trip. We paddled the Broken Group over 4 days and enjoyed calm water, moments of reflection, and a handful of wildlife sightings. I had never been sea kayaking or kayak camping before and they handled the logistics and teaching to make sure everyone stayed safe, including packing sufficient drinking water and food for the whole group and ensuring we had shelter in a significant but thankfully brief rainstorm. They often referenced First Nations people and mentioned that they have control over these waters and have welcomed the return of recreational kayaking after the pandemic. We saw numerous oysters, crabs, snails (including giant moon snail!), and caught glimpses of humpback whales, a seal, and a black bear. Meals were delicious and healthy and they readily accommodated me as a pescatarian. Do fill out the pre-trip questionnaire which will come by email so that they can plan appropriately. They were happy to teach me some basics about navigation and planning and I felt comfortable on other sea kayak rentals and classes later in my trip.9/24/2023 - susangarygraf
Enjoyed every minute Gods Pocket 6 day. Fabulous. Quality. Equipment, food, local knowledge and especially smart and safe decision making along the way. Silke sets a high bar for guiding. Energy, sensitivity and expertise. We are a mid 70s couple and enjoyed the whole trip. Our second tour with Silke.9/01/2022 - Ulrike H
Fantastic Broughton Archipelago Kayaking in the Broughton Archipelago was our 3rd trip with Wild Root Journeys. It can hardly get any better. The company guides with excellent knowledge about the natural world and the respect for the indigenous population and culture. The equipment is top notch, the food was delicious, the group was harmonious and supportive. The weather was on the cool side in early June, and I learned that it helps to keep socks on in my water shoes to keep warmth in my feet. The water is so clear and offers this beautiful view into the underwater world. Different wild life showed up every day . The changing weather with low clouds and silhouettes of Islands, with raindrops hitting the flat ocean surface, to brilliant colours and amazing sunsets, every day was special. Apparently I have to experience God's Pocket to see more of the extraordinary marine wildlife next. I hope I can! Definitely recommend this company, Thanks Silke for the experience!8/14/2022 - Lang E
Amazing Trip in the Broughton's We had an amazing trip through the Broughton Islands. Scenery and wildlife was astounding. Silke is an amazing guide. She ranks tops in all categories, planning, navigation, group dynamics, safety and so on. The food was delicious and plentiful. The gear was top notch. This was our 4th trip with WRJ. We can't wait for our next one.7/15/2022 - Lori
A dream trip to Gods pocket! I went on a 6 day guided kayak tour to God's Pocket with Wild Root Journeys. I can say this one of the of the most beautiful adventures of my life. I loved how quiet and serene the area was. This is not a bustling tourist hotspot, and the wildlife experiences were exceptional. The marine life was healthier than almost anywhere I've been. Our guides were wonderful, organized, grounded and a lot of fun. I would go back for the wonderful meals alone, and I hope to! 🙂3/26/2022 - Voyage258227
Nature Oriented Kayaking Trip Broken Islands My daughter and I joined the Wild Root Journeys kayaking trip in the Broken Group Islands from July 9 to 12th. As Barb noted in another review Silke and Bill were great in making us all feel cared for and safe and yes, the food was great. We live in BC and I have kayaked a fair amount in the southern gulf islands. That said, I was impressed by the knowledge of both guides and my kayaking paddle technique has definitely improved with their advise. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who likes kayaking and wants to explore the beautiful rainforest eco system of the Broken Island with thoughtful, nature oriented guides. Thank you Silke.8/26/2021 - 230barbarak
Wonderful experience in a special place Wild Root Journeys provided a beautiful, unforgettable 4 days in the Broken Group Islands.7/22/2021
Guides Silke and Bill kept the vibe relaxed and friendly. Their meticulous organization, knowledge and skills meant we always felt cared for and safe, even as novice kayakers. Gear was top-notch and the food was pretty awesome too!
A wonderfully immersive adventure in a stunning part of the world. Highly recommended!! - Barbara K
Wonderful way to experience a special place Wild Root Journeys provided a beautiful, unforgettable experience. Guides Silke and Bill kept the vibe relaxed and friendly. Their meticulous organization, knowledge and skills meant we always felt cared for and safe, even as novice kayakers. Gear was top-notch and the food was pretty awesome too! A wonderfully immersive adventure in a stunning part of the world - highly recommended!7/22/2021 - 78megj
Epic Old Growth Trees I just returned from yet another incredible time way out there with Wild Root Journeys. This trip was my first coming out of the isolation and social limitations of this COVID-time, and I have returned feeling more rejuvenated than I have in the past year and a half.7/20/2021
The areas that we accessed were remote and quiet but for people who appreciate the quiet, as well. We had a wonderful group of folks on the trip, and as the days went on, we all settled into being a part of the nature we were journeying through. It was spectacular, and comfortable, and delicious. Wild Root Journeys has the most cozy chairs, tents, and sleep mats, and all their gear is top of the line and well cared for.
I plan to continue to get out for a multi-day paddle trip every year with the folks at WRJ..every time I see new things (the Old Growth Trees in the Broken Group Islands are breathtaking), meet great people, and learn new ways of engaging with the earth. Every year, there are just so many reasons to say YES! - 78megj
Heart Centered and Ecologically Aware. The crew at Wild Root Journeys are heart-centered and ecologically-aware, they tread lightly and have developed a wonderful balance of getting us where we need to go safely, and having a beautiful, relaxing time exploring along the way.3/26/2021
I loved paddling along the shoreline and learning about all the sea creatures. It was amazing to eat a fish that we caught that same day, and to listen to the sea lions bark away.
I really enjoyed hearing stories of the Indigenous history, presence, and connection to the land and sea and everything in between. WRJ has been building relationship in the areas that they paddle for many years, and I could feel that. It was assuring to know and feel that I was paddling with someone who was truly welcome in the area.
Every journey I have paddled with Wild Root has brought me to a whole nother world; an experience that is more and more challenging to find these days.
I am so excited to get out there and paddle with WRJ again! - 981ulrikeh
I am hooked on experiencing the marine world in this way I have just returned from a 4 day trip into Desolation Sound with Wild Root Journeys and it was an amazing experience. A long time dream come true. I am not an experiences paddler, but Silke's clear instructions made me comfortable in the kayak and made me experience the strength in my body I wasn't sure I had. Great equipment is provided, from storage bags to tents to kayaks. Silke provided excellent guidance, fantastic food, humour, and lots of sanitation in the time of COVID. She is extremely respectful of the nature we were in, and shared her knowledge of the area geographically and culturally. Smart decision making on the spot to account for changes in the weather, the wind, the currents, she really made us feel at easy even when the waters became a bit rougher. We moved with purpose! Thank you Silke and Kaily for your company, your joy and your ability to embrace everybody with ease and comfort. I want to go out again with you to explore the outer coast!7/26/2020 - lorirro
The best dose of self care! This is how I wish all guided trips were!! Silke is simply wonderful! Our day out was the perfect experience for the times. Such a beautiful reminder about the necessity of simple time spent in nature. It was soul nourishing and I'm glad we all booked ourselves some self care during this time. Silke is kind, funny, in flow and a pleasure to be around. Totally trust her and her knowledge out on the water, and appreciate her easy flow. She kept the group light and the smiles coming. Thank you so much!!6/25/2020




