River Rafting
Nahatlatch River, Boston Bar (Reo Rafting Resort/Ryan Robinson photo)
With millions of hectares of mountains and over 100 major river systems, British Columbia has no shortage of excellent river and whitewater rafting opportunities.
Old-growth forest, glacier-capped peaks and isolated waterfalls are just a few of the natural marvels that might be seen on a guided rafting expedition.
Three kinds of river rafting experiences are offered by British Columbia's licensed operators: paddle trips, motor-powered trips, and float trips.
Paddle trips require the most active involvement as guests must paddle the raft as the guide steers. Motor-powered trips, available on some deeper rivers, require no paddling, though guests must be able to hold on tight. On a float trip, paddling is usually optional as guides often propel and steer the raft with large oars; float trips are often accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Guided trips will range in length from several hours to several days. On multi-day trips, accommodation may range from a simple tent in the woods to a cabin at a dedicated rafting resort.
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Learn more about river rafting in BC's regions
Vancouver, Coast & Mountains: Home to the mighty Fraser Canyon, the "Rafting Capital of Canada," and great whitewater around Squamish and Whistler.
Vancouver Island: Tackle more than 40 sets of Class II and III rapids over 20km/12.4mi on the Lower Nimpkish River.
Thompson Okanagan: Warm waters and reliably sunny weather make this region's famous rafting hotspots – the Thompson, Adams and Clearwater rivers – even more appealing.
Kootenay Rockies: Visit premier whitewater rafting destinations like the Kicking Horse and Kootenay rivers.
Northern British Columbia: See grizzlies and glaciers from the Tatshenshini, Babine, or Bulkley rivers.
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast: Glacier-fed river systems like the Chilko-Chilcotin-Fraser are dominated by rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV.
When to Go Rafting
BC is a large province – roughly the size of France and Germany combined – and climate varies greatly by region. In southern parts of the province the rafting season generally runs from May or June to September, but in the north, the window is much smaller – usually just July and August. Check with individual operators for precise seasons.
Practical Points and Rafting Safety
- Whitewater rafting poses inherent risks, but with proper guidance, preparation and common sense, these risks are greatly diminished. Nonetheless, companies will require participants to sign a waiver and release of liability prior to setting out.
- Rafting in BC is strictly regulated, and rafting companies will provide certified and experienced guides who ensure that trips are as safe and enjoyable as possible. Always arrange your trip with a licensed river rafting company.
- Generally, kids age 10 and older can participate in most rafting trips, though more difficult runs require stronger paddling and may have a minimum age of 15 or 16. Some of the more low-key motorized and float trips are suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Age and fitness restrictions will vary by operating company and by route, so always check with the company in advance.
- All specialized gear — including wetsuits, lifejackets, waterproof jackets, helmets and paddles — is typically provided by the operating company. Guests are usually advised to bring a few items; check with the individual company before you go.
- Always book your rafting trip in advance.
River and Whitewater Rafting Highlight Areas
Fraser River (Thompson Okanagan / Vancouver, Coast & Mountains)
Rising near Mount Robson in the Canadian Rockies and emptying into the Pacific Ocean almost 1,400km/870mi later, BC's longest river is home to a huge variety of scenic rafting opportunities, from the intensity of the Fraser Canyon to the peacefulness of its wider sections.
Stein River (Vancouver, Coast & Mountains)
The steepest commercially-rafted river in Canada (with a drop of 27 metres per kilometre, or 145 feet per mile) is also one of BC's only commercially-rafted Class Vs — a big draw for extreme paddlers the world over.
Tatshenshini-Alsek River System (Northern BC)
Raft past the glaciers and grizzlies that inhabit this majestic bio-reserve, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lytton (Vancouver, Coast & Mountains)
The town of Lytton is known as the "Rafting Capital of Canada" thanks to its location at the confluence of the Fraser and Thompson rivers, two of BC's largest.
Brackendale (Vancouver, Coast & Mountains)
In winter, head to Brackendale (just north of Squamish) and take a float trip to see bald eagles lured by the local rivers' spawning salmon.
The International Rapid Rating Scale
BC's diverse rivers present rafters with varying degrees of difficulty. When choosing a river rafting trip that's right for you, consider the international rapid rating scale.
Had a Great BC Rafting Experience?
We want to know about it! Let other visitors in on what you think are the best whitewater/river rafting spots in the province. Write a short blog about it and share your tips and stories!
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21 River Rafting in British Columbia
1 - 10 of 21 Results
1
101 Golden Donald Upper Rd
Golden, British Columbia
V0A 1H0
Websitehttp://www.alpinerafting.com
Toll-free888-599-5299
Phone250-344-6778
The Kicking Horse River is renowned as the Whitewater Gem of the Canadian Rockies boasting BC & Alberta's biggest whitewater thrills. 2013 marks Alpine Rafting's 29th year on the Kicking Horse River. From our fleet of eye popping candy red rafts to our trip selection, we've spent the last 29 years honing the experience we provide. The team at Alpine Rafting looks forward to spending a day on the river with you.
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2
Websitehttp://www.CanadianOutback.com
Toll-free800-565-8735
Phone604-924-4500
Canadian Outback Rafting is the Vancouver-Whistler region's oldest rafting operator, with the best guides, gear & prices. We take pride in offering a variety of river rafting adventures for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 85, we have a Vancouver or Whistler white water river rafting adventure that will allow you to experience the beauty and serenity of British Columbia.
This year, we're shooting GoPro HD video on every trip, perfect for showing off to your friends back home! Book a rafting trip with us and receive discounts on other popular adventures in the area!
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3
Websitehttp://www.nahanni.com
Toll-free800-297-6927
Phone867-668-3180
River rafting & canoeing: Tatshenshini, Alsek, Stikine, Babine, Nahanni, Firth. Multi-day expeditions include camping, wildlife viewing, hiking, photography, birding, fishing & great food. The trusted experts with friendly, knowledgeable, qualified guides. Highlights include Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park, Babine Provincial Park, Kluane National Park. Tatshenshini & Alsek Canadian Heritage Rivers. Whitewater rafting & float trips in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Operating wilderness expeditions in BC, Yukon & Alaska since 1972. Our 50% return guest rate has earned the reputation as the "go to" people for the highest quality, professional & custom programs. Join us for the trip of a lifetime!
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4
49704 Chilliwack Lake Rd
Chilliwack, British Columbia
V4Z 1A7
Websitehttp://www.chilliwackriverrafting.com
Toll-free800-410-7238
Phone604-824-0334
Closer than you think to a Vancouver BC Whitewater Rafting Adventure. Chilliwack River Rafting offers the best ride in small paddle rafts. Friendly expert professional guides maximize your fun with a family, moderate or aggressive Chilliwack whitewater rafting adventure. The Chilliwack River is our specialty. We host day & overnight trips for experienced & first time rafters from our riverside resort. Our relaxed private 2 hectare (5 acre) Chilliwack River Resort is the perfect location for corporate events, private parties and group camp outs. Whitewater adventure, stunning mountain views, hot showers, sauna, volleyball court, great staff and prices. Open year round.
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5
1630 Island Hwy
Campbell River, British Columbia
V9W 2E5
Websitehttp://www.destinyriver.com
Toll-free877-923-7238
Phone250-287-4800
Destiny River Adventures is currently the only government licensed, professional river outfitter on Vancouver Island.
We offer a variety of experiences including raft & snorkel with salmon tours, scenic river floats, family wilderness adventures, thrilling whitewater & multi-day river expeditions. Our trips focus on the whole river adventure - wilderness, wildlife & personal discovery are key to the exploration of our rivers & making your memories unforgettable. Our certified professional guides allow us to offer trips suitable for almost all ages & abilities on a variety of coastal rivers.
Bus charters & custom tours are also available throughout the year.
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6
30950 Trans-Canada Hwy
Yale, British Columbia
V0K 2S0
Websitehttp://www.fraserraft.com
Toll-free800-363-7238
Phone604-863-2336
At Fraser River Raft Expeditions we are proud to offer a variety of expeditions down the Fraser and its tributaries. The river trips we offer vary from large volume rivers, like the mighty Fraser and Thompson, to small volume such as the Nahatlatch and Coquihalla. Our rafts range from large powered rafts to much smaller paddle rafts.
Whether you prefer to paddle the early season challenge of the Nahatlatch or Coquihalla rivers, hot summer fun on the Thompson, or power rafting one of British Columbia's most spectacular river corridors, Fraser River Raft Expeditions has an expedition for you!
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7
612 - 7th St N
Golden, British Columbia
V0A 1H0
Websitehttp://www.glacierraft.com
Toll-free877-344-7238
Phone250-344-6521
Glacier Raft Company offers action packed, adrenaline filled whitewater rafting adventures, as well as relaxing, scenic family floats. We run trips from Golden and Fairmont Hot Springs on five rivers in British Columbia, Canada.
The Kicking Horse River is the ultimate whitewater rafting destination in the Rocky Mountains, while the White River is a beautiful hidden gem. Toby Creek, the Blaeberry River and Columbia River offer friendly family fun, so come join us and let Glacier Raft Company make your next rafting trip the best it can be!
Since 1982.
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8
Websitehttp://www.hyak.com
Toll-free800-663-7238
Phone604-734-8622
Since 1980, Hyak has entertained thousands of guests on river adventures that have earned us a reputation for quality, service and safety. With state of the art rafts and equipment, the finest guides in the industry and the best food on the river, we are committed to offering a first class, all-encompassing outdoor experience. Whether you're 8 or 80, the thrill of the whitewater and the spectacular scenery will make this the 'Best Day of your Summer'! From our popular Chilliwack & Thompson day trips to our world class Chilko/Chilcotin/Fraser 6-Day Expedition, Hyak has the perfect river adventure for you.
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9
4-73 Old North Thompson Hwy
Clearwater, British Columbia
V0E 1N0
Websitehttp://www.interiorwhitewater.bc.ca
Toll-free800-661-7238
Phone250-674-3727
Interior Whitewater Expeditions offers one of BC's premier whitewater rafting adventures. Set amongst the serene & untouched beauty of BC, IWE offers exclusive access to one of the Pacific Northwest's last big volume, free flowing river systems. Clearwater River both rips & meanders through spectacular Wells Gray Provincial Park, allowing us to offer trips to suit every desire, both wild & mellow. Let our professional guiding team take you out into the wild. Raft some of BC's biggest whitewater; enjoy backcountry waterfalls, lava canyons & sandy beaches. Check out our interactive virtual tour on our website.
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10
1345 Trans-Canada Hwy 1
Lytton, British Columbia
V0K 1Z0
Websitehttp://www.kumsheen.com
Toll-free800-663-6667
Phone250-455-2296
The Thompson and Fraser Rivers are unique in the world of whitewater rafting because of their size & scenic beauty. Take the opportunity to discover BC's most popular rivers as early as May 1st. Conveniently located along the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 near Lytton, Kumsheen is only 3 hrs from Vancouver & 2 hrs from Kamloops. With a friendly and family-oriented campground, furnished cabin tent and teepee accommodation, Kumsheen is much more than just a rafting facility. The resort is a luxurious base for overnight vacations, fully equipped with an outdoor pool and hot tub, licenced restaurant and more.
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