Kootenay Rockies Things To Do

Have you been rafting in BC? Share your adventures with other visitors. Write a blog!

Learn More About River Rafting in:

Rafting in the Kootenay Rockies

The spectacular landscapes and mountain scenery may be the focus of your trip if you're planning a gentle river float, or an added bonus if you're seeking out thrilling Class IV rapids (visit our BC Rafting page for information on rafting classes). Depending on the time of year and location, you may also spot bears, elk, mountain goats or bighorn sheep along the way.

Whitewater Spots

Kicking Horse River is the most popular river rafting area in the region, and has been designated as a Canadian Heritage River due to its geographic and historic importance. Glacier-fed from the Rocky Mountains, it flows through Yoho National Park before its eventual confluence with the Columbia River.

For a peaceful experience, try a river float along the Columbia River Valley, which stretches from Canal Flats (south of Fairmont Hot Springs) to Donald (north of Golden). Framed on both sides by big mountains (Canadian Rockies and Purcells), the Columbia River and lush wetlands provide an important habitat for many birds and wildlife. The gentle pace of a river float allows passengers to experience being on the river while enjoying the scenery and staying dry (there are no rapids).

Getting There

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 by the provincial government, 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 the following: quick-drying shorts or swimsuit (no cotton); shoes or sandals that can get wet (flip-flops are not advised); a fleece or sweater (no cotton); a towel; sunscreen; sunglasses (with lanyard); a dry change of clothes; and a sealable bag for personal items such as cameras. Items required may vary by operating company and time of year; check before you go.
• Always book your rafting trip in advance. 

Highlights

Kicking Horse River

 

For a thrill ride, raft the Upper and Middle canyons of the Kicking Horse River. This trip covers 20 km (12 mi) and starts just west of the Yoho National Park boundary. Expect to get wet in a section of continuous Class III - IV rapids with names such as Shotgun and Last Waltz. Add on the Lower Canyon section for an even more extraordinary river run.

The headwaters of the Kicking Horse River are in Yoho National Park. Guided whitewater trips are available from several experienced operators in the region, many of which are located in or near Golden.

Attributes

• Rated: Class II - IV
• Approximate time required: half-day - overnight trips
• Best time: June - September

Kootenay River

From the headwaters in Kootenay National Park the river flows south within the Rocky Mountain Trench, becoming part of the trench at Canal Flats, then into a reservoir in Montana. From the reservoir the river turns west, enters Idaho, and then loops north where it flows back into BC and into Kootenay Lake. Most of the Kootenay River becomes the western arm of the lake.

The Upper Kootenay River includes fast waters, Class III rapids, waves, rocks and pools.

Experienced operators in the region offer guided whitewater trips, including expeditions designed both for experienced adventurers and for the entire family.

Attributes

• Rated: Class II - III
• Approximate time required: half-day and full day trips
• Best time: June - September

Bull & Elk Rivers

Bull River is best when water levels are medium to high (May, June and July). The area boasts outstanding scenery, including huge mountain peaks and deep green forests. The lower portion of the river includes a narrow canyon with frothy rapids nicknamed "Bubblicious" and "Toilet Bowl".

Elk River is a larger volume river that carves its way through steep-walled canyons. There are some nice rapids in the Lower Elk Canyon, as well as swimming holes and cliff-jumping areas along its route. Like the Bull River, the scenery is fantastic.

Attributes

• Rated: Class II – IV
• Approximate time required: Full day
• Best time: May, June and July (Bull River); July, August and September (Lower Elk)

Columbia River

Located between Donald (north of Golden) and Canal Flats (south of Fairmont Hot Springs), the wetlands support a large variety of wildlife – especially birds. Blue herons, bald eagles and osprey nest and feed throughout the area. The spring migration (from June to mid July) is a great time to watch for migrating birds travelling north along the Pacific Flyway. In autumn, spawning salmon attract raptors such as bald eagles, osprey and golden eagles to the river.

A river float tour provides guests with a good opportunity to spot birds and wildlife while relaxing and enjoying the scenery; some operators will even provide rafters with binoculars. Guests are not required to paddle, and guides can provide interpretation about the history, geology and wildlife in the area.

This type of trip is excellent for nature lovers, photographers or those looking for the experience of floating on a river, but without the rapids or the wet clothing.

Attributes

• Rated: Class I (no rapids)
• Approximate time required: Half-day
• Best time: May to September

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!