With access points to the Fraser River, Thompson River, Nahatlatch and Coquihalla Rivers, whitewater rafting is a key activity in the Fraser Canyon near Lytton. Guides are skilled professionals in all aspects of rafting and by matching trips to preferences, virtually all ages and abilities can participate. These outfitters are located about a 2.5hr drive from Vancouver and Whistler; and 4.5hrs from Seattle.
Overlooking the rapids of the jade-green Nahatlatch River, Reo Rafting Resort has a secluded setting about 14.5km/9mi out of Boston Bar/North Bend. The first 6km/3.7mi is paved; the final 8.5km/5.3mi is gravel, including a steep hill down to the resort itself.
These folks have navigated commercial trips on the Nahatlatch since 1982 and know a thing or two about how to maneuver the almost continuous whitewater of Class III-V rapids. All-inclusive packages offer more than rafting.
This is a multi-sport resort with rock rappelling, kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, hut-to-hut hiking trips, a private beach, volleyball, a hot tub, sauna and even aromatherapy massage. Accommodation choices include camping, luxury 'cabin' tents, teepees and log cabins.
Fraser River Raft Expeditions
Based in Yale, the family owned and operated Fraser River Raft Expeditions offers two styles of whitewater adventure: aboard a hang-on-with-both-hands motorized power raft down the Fraser River (it's the only company with a Fraser River option), or as a member of a paddling team down the Thompson, Nahatlatch or Coquihalla rivers.
Rafting Age Limits
These trips are a shade more demanding, probably a bit wetter and a whole load of fun. While power rafting has a minimum age of eight years, paddling will accept early teens depending on water levels and previous experience.
Rafting Expetitions
Expeditions range from day-long to multi-day adventures with hearty food along the way. The outfitter provides accommodation in Teague House, an 1864 home that has three bedrooms and a loft-dormitory. Tenters are welcome in the garden and have use of washrooms and BBQ areas.
Hyak River Rafting
Located 1km/0.6mi north of Lytton, the Hyak River Rafting resort has 40 sites, RV hookups, hot showers, laundry facilities and a general store. Overlooking the Thompson River Valley, the outfitter runs mainly day and half-day excursions on the Thompson. They can cover up to 36km/22.4m and 27 exciting rapids and trips include a riverside buffet lunch.
This resort has activities such as a volleyball court, picnic tables and an all-you-can-eat gourmet BBQ. Hyak has been around since 1980 and has grown to become the largest rafting fleet in Western Canada. It also has a centre in Chilliwack which offers hotel pick ups for daily trips on the Chilliwack River.
Kumsheen Rafting Resort
Perched on the Thompson River across from the grandiose White Canyon cliffs, the family owned Kumsheen Rafting Resort has been around for more than 35 years. Facilities include a campground with RV hookups, comfortably furnished Anishinabe-style teepees and cabin tents complete with wooden floors and decks, antiques and historical.
Rafting is a must although options also exist to kayak, rock climb and rappel, play disc golf, beach volleyball, and outdoor chess. There are mountain bike rentals to try the onsite skills trail as well as a special downhill ride from the top of Botanie Creek Road. The Cutting Board is an excellent restaurant, in season, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Hope and Lytton Visitor Centres can provide more information on river rafting.
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