River Rafting

Learn more about River Rafting in:

• Thompson River
• Clearwater River
• Adams River

Getting There

All staging points for river trips in the region are accessible by car. Those without a car will need to arrange a shuttle service. Rafters typically meet at the tour office or designated meeting spot and are shuttled to and from the put-in/take-out sites. Always check with operating companies for specific directions.

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.

Rafting Highlights

Thompson River

A hot climate, desert-canyon scenery, warm water and huge, rollercoaster waves are what draw rafters to the Thompson River each summer. The lower Thompson features 18 Class III rapids (visit our BC Rafting page for information on rafting classes), starting with Frog Rapid, a turbulent section of the river that rounds a house-sized rock before heading downstream to several Class III-IV rapids. Summer heat causes the water level to drop, which creates bigger, more defined waves perfect for paddle rafting.

• Lytton, the main gateway starting point, is a three-hour drive northeast from Vancouver via Highway 1.
• Rated: class III to IV
• Approximate time required: single day to overnight trips
• Best time: July to September

Clearwater River

Extinct volcanoes, lava canyons, alpine meadows, lush forests, spectacular waterfalls and clear waters are what set the Clearwater River apart as a rafting destination. It offers big waves and high-volume rapids with names like The Wall and Tsunami, as well as lots of holes and whirlpools to keep you in rapids wonderland. You can stop along the way for a dip in Swimmer's Alley or a hike up to Kettle Rapid or Candle Creek Falls.

Clearwater River is located in Clearwater, a two-hour drive north from Kamloops via Highway 5.

• Rated: class IV
• Approximate time required: half-day to multi-day trips
• Best time: May to September

Adams River

The Adams River offers rafting fun for the whole family. The water is warm and novices can opt for a shorter ride through only the smooth-flowing upper reaches. More adventurous types can continue down to the lower reaches for a white-knuckle, whitewater experience.

The river is an important salmon-spawning waterway and is fully protected. The area around it is home to the Shuswap peoples. Rafting tours usually incorporate some discussion of their long history here.

The Adams River is near Scotch Creek, a one-hour drive east from Kamloops via Highway 1.

• Rated: class I to III
• Approximate time required: half a day
• Best time: May to September

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