Glaciers, grizzlies, eagles, salmon, totem poles – river rafting through Northern BC is a spectacular journey through untouched wilderness settings, old growth forests, and pristine rivers.
Rafting trips can be a single day float down a gently moving river, or a multi-day whitewater wilderness expedition into some of the most remote and beautiful places settings in North America. The Babine-Bulkley, Tatsenshini-Alsek, and Gataga-Kechika rivers are some whitewater rafting highlight areas in this region.
Whether you're looking for thrilling whitewater adventure or a slow, scenic trip for the whole family on an iceberg-filled lake, rafting in Northern British Columbia offers something for everyone. Safe, professionally guided trips will present Northern BC in its very best light.
Rafting in Northern BC
Many rivers in Northern BC host a variety of salmon runs, which attract grizzly and black bears, as well as bald eagles, moose, wolverine and lynx. Whitewater thrills aren't the only reason for rafting here – wildlife viewing and photography are an essential part of this area's rafting experience.
The Babine River is also known as the "River of Grizzlies" and cuts through a remote section of the Coast Mountain Range. Suitable for beginner paddlers, you can expect to see a migratory population of grizzly bears fishing for salmon from July to late September. Spectacular totems and First Nations cultural artefacts are also on display as the river winds through Gitksan villages.
The Tatsenshini is perhaps the wildest and most visually stunning river in North America. Flowing through the heart of the largest bio-preserve on earth, this river system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been called one of the world's great river rafting trips.
Rafting the rivers in the newly-formed Muskwa-Kechika wilderness area is to step into a remote and untamed wilderness. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, spectacular scenery, and relatively untouched rivers. The whole region is exceptionally rich in wildlife; moose, black and grizzly bear, mountain goat, stone sheep, elk, caribou and wolf are abundant.
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Getting There
Most rafting destinations in the region are accessible by car, although plane travel may be preferable for more remote locations. Whether travelling by car or bus, always check with operating companies for specific directions, as many companies have specified "pick-up" spots or meeting locations.
Practical Points and 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
Babine River and Bulkley River
Your rafting adventure along the 150-km/93-mi Babine River (in the Smithers area) during salmon-spawning season takes you into an isolated wilderness filled with thrilling rapids and narrow canyons, and gives one of the finest grizzly bear-viewing opportunities in the province.
Descend the famous whitewater known as "Grizzly Drop," where even the salmon struggle through the swift current as they fight their way through the paws of the mighty grizzly bears. At the end of the journey, you are greeted by the magnificent totem poles of Kispiox Village.
The Bulkley River boasts over 30 rapids and is one of the most exciting and scenic whitewater day-rafting trips in BC. It ends near 'Ksan Historical Village in Hazelton, where the Bulkley and Skeena Rivers meet.
- Rated: Babine I to IV; Bulkley III to IV (visit the BC Rafting page for information on rafting classes).
- Approximate time required: 1 day for the Bulkley; 5-10 days for the Babine
- Best time: July to September for the Bulkley
Tatshenshini-Alsek River
Located in BC's remote northwest corner, the Tatshenshini-Alsek system flows through the world's largest internationally protected terrestrial ecosystem. It is considered one of the most magnificent river systems on earth. This swiftly flowing river cuts a path through the St. Elias Mountains, home to some of the highest peaks in North America and over 350 valley glaciers.
A guided rafting trip on the Tatshenshini River can last anywhere from 9 to 12 days. You paddle whitewater mainly on the first day and have opportunities to hike en route. If you're lucky, you may also get a glimpse of the rare blue glacier bear. More common wildlife sightings include moose, grizzly bears, wolves and Dall's sheep. For those wanting a shorter excursion, day trips are available on the upper stretch.
Operators also run the entire Alsek, which has slightly more challenging whitewater and greater scenic diversity. This includes high alpine ecosystems and numerous glaciers that drop right down to the river. One section of the Alsek is un-navigable and must be portaged by helicopter.
- Rated: Tatshenshini I to III; Alsek I to III
- Approximate time required: 9-12 days
- Best time: mid-June to late August
Gataga-Kechika River
This new wilderness rafting frontier in the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area offers the best of the northern Rocky Mountains: a wildlife-rich, untouched valley of spruce forests sweeping up to jagged peaks.
Rafters are flown in by helicopter to the start of their journey on the Gataga-Kechika River. They quickly see that this protected area has some of the biggest concentrations of large mammals in North America, including stone sheep, elk and caribou. In terms of whitewater, this is a comparatively gentle river trip. Guided trips often include easy hikes to dramatic lakes and ridges of the Rockies.
- Rated: class I to III
- Approximate time required: 10-11 days
- Best time: late July to early September
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