River rafting and Vancouver Island go hand-in-hand as mountains, rivers and rainforest create the ultimate wilderness, whitewater experience. Located in the central to northern parts of the island, rafters are faced with limestone canyons and surfing holes where rapids earn names like "The Slot" and "Twisted Sisters."
Spend anywhere from a half day up to several days navigating Vancouver Island's rivers. Some trips are easily accessed from communities such as Campbell River and require little in the way of preparation, while others are tucked in remote valleys where you must be fully geared up for a wilderness, backcountry experience.
Rafting companies offer everything from whitewater rafting on the Nimpkish River to placid river floats along the Campbell. There are even unique river activities like snorkelling with salmon. Such a variety of guided rafting tours means there are trips for just about everyone.
Getting There
Surrounded by mountains and never far from the ocean, getting to the starting point and finishing your rafting adventure is often as breathtaking as the ride itself. Accessing tucked away rivers often requires a drive along back roads through dense forest while the snow-capped Vancouver Island Mountains come into full view as you end your journey on calm lakes or along the ocean front.
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
Nimpkish River
On the Lower Nimpkish River rafters can tackle more than 40 sets of rapids over 20km/12mi. There are rapids tame enough for apprehensive beginners or families, and wild enough for fearless experts. Every stretch is fun, and you can even jump out and swim or try kayaking, fishing, caving and cliff jumping before tucking into a hearty lunch.
The Upper Nimpkish will appeal to those looking for a more intense whitewater paddle. Here rapids are closer together and there is less float time so paddlers will spend a full day fighting the turbulent waters. Bring a waterproof disposable camera, as there are several fantastic photo opportunities.
This river route supports abundant wildlife. Elk, deer, cougar, black bear, eagles and schools of salmon (in spawning season) use the river. There's a good chance of spotting one or more of them during a day of rafting. Tours leave from Campbell River, a 90-minute drive north from Nanaimo.
- Lower Nimpkish River is rated as class II to III, Upper Nimpkish is III to IV (visit our BC Rafting page for information on rafting classes)
- Approximate time required: one day
- Best time: early May to mid-August
- Reservations strongly recommended
Campbell River
This is an easy trip suitable for almost everyone and is a great introduction to rafting with the option of paddling or just floating with the current. Tours begin just after Canyon Outfalls and paddlers experience some light splash, and then have ample time to float down the river. In August, rafting trips include an option to hop off the boat and snorkel with the spawning salmon. For those wishing to stay dry, you can simply watch the salmon from the raft.
- Rated as class I to II
- Approximate time required: half a day
- Best time May to August
Southgate River
Located on the mainland of BC but accessed via Campbell River on Vancouver Island, rafting on the Southgate offers glacial green waters from the surrounding mountains. The nearby 770sq km/297sq mi Homathko Icefields provide an ample supply of rushing rapids. Waterfalls, mountain ridges and glaciers dominate this area. Rafters can try fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. The river valley habitat sees grizzly bear, wolves, deer and eagles make their home here, in this extremely remote part of BC. Boat and helicopter provide access to the starting point on the river.
- Rated as class I to II
- Approximate time required: several days
- Best time August to September
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