River Rafting
Rafting (Reo Rafting Resort/Ryan Robinson photo)
Come for the superb scenery, or for the thrill of riding a wild beast of a river.
The Kootenay Rockies has no shortage of whitewater rivers, but near Fernie there are the raging Bull and Elk rivers, both of which deliver class III and class IV water in the spring.
The Bull River
Rafting adventures on the Bull are offered only in the spring, when water volume is at its peak. However, with features such as the evocatively named Toilet Bowl, this smaller river should not be underestimated.
The Elk River
Like its four-legged namesake, the Elk River can be both fierce and placid. During peak runoff, guides navigate more than 20 sections of rapids and the exciting Lower Canyon. The adrenaline rush continues throughout the summer – even though water volumes decrease later in the season.
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For those who prefer to sit back and admire the scenery, the gentle waters of the upper Elk River might be more appealing. Half-day scenic float trips are perfect for kids of all ages.
Canyon Raft Company
Experienced guides offer full-day whitewater rafting trips on both rivers, and half-day scenic float trips on the Upper Elk. Canyon Raft Company also offers a full day Adventure Camp Kids' Float. The company has a minimum age limit of 16 for spring whitewater trips, but will accept children as young as eight later in the season.
Mountain High River Adventures
Choose from hurtling down-river with a party of eight in an industry-standard inflatable raft, or paddle solo in an inflatable kayak. While getting wet is to be expected in a raft, a still more intimate acquaintance with the river should be expected when kayaking. Mountain High River Adventure has a minimum age requirement of 12 years for kayaking, and a minimum weight requirement of 23kg/50lb for whitewater rafting trips.
Practical Points
- The operators supply all protective gear including a wet suit, life jacket, spray jacket and helmet.
- Wear a bathing suit or nylon shorts, and bring a fleece, sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap – so they hang around your neck and don't get lost in the river.
For more information on river rafting in Fernie, stop by the Visitor Centre.
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Things To Do
Water Activities