If you're looking for an exhilarating summer adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, look no further than whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River. With an incredibly scenic backdrop and rapids that cater to all experience levels (yes, even beginners and children!), river rafting in Golden, BC, belongs high on your bucket list.
Whether you’re a novice paddler or a seasoned expert chasing big whitewater, the Kicking Horse River promises fun for everyone. Let’s dive into exactly what makes this river a must-visit rafting destination.
The Kicking Horse River 101
Originating from the Wapta Icefield in the Canadian Rockies (more specifically, in spectacular Yoho National Park), the Kicking Horse River is a designated Canadian Heritage River. This means it's recognized for its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational heritage. The Kicking Horse is particularly renowned for its powerful flow and stunning scenery, attracting adventurers from all over the globe. Speaking of its powerful flow, the river got its name in 1858 when a horse kicked a doctor in the chest on one of the earliest expeditions while they attempted to cross the fast-moving water.
As it carves through the rugged canyon, the Kicking Horse River picks up speed and velocity, creating a wide variety of rafting experiences along the way. Enjoy gentle family floats in the Upper Canyon and battle some of the most intense rapids in Canada in the Lower Canyon.
Rapids for Every Rafter
One of the main things that makes river rafting in Golden, BC, so popular is the diversity of the Kicking Horse River. On a relatively small stretch of this impressive, super scenic river, you'll find rapids ranging from calm and beginner-friendly (Class I) to heart-pumping, true white water (Class IV).
Upper Canyon: Beginner to Intermediate
The upper section of the Kicking Horse River is perfect for families with children and those new to whitewater rafting. You’ll encounter primarily Class I and Class II rapids, really more of a leisurely scenic float with a few occasional splashes. These rapids are gentle yet exciting, offering not only a fun and safe introduction to rafting but also a wonderful way to enjoy the stunning surroundings. These sections of the river also generally include calm stretches where you can literally sit back and relax while taking in the views—or capturing them for Instagram!
Middle Canyon: Intermediate to Advanced
If you have a bit of previous rafting experience under your belt and you're looking for more of a challenge, consider a trip through the Middle Canyon of the Kicking Horse River. This section features mostly Class II and Class III rapids, with a thrilling one-kilometre stretch of Class IV. You'll encounter bigger waves and navigate through more technical rapids with names like Man Eater and Room of Doom. A rafting trip here is one of the best Golden activities for people who want to test pushing their limits while also still maintaining a margin of safety.
Lower Canyon: Expert
Well-known as "the biggest whitewater in western Canada," the Kicking Horse River's Lower Canyon is for seasoned rafters and adrenaline junkies. This section, full of primarily Class IV rapids with the potential for a few Class V, is truly not for beginners or the faint of heart. The powerful currents and challenging drops require skill and precision, making it the ultimate bucket list-worthy whitewater rafting experience for adrenaline junkies.
To clarify, while the Rapid Classification System goes up to Class VI, the Kicking Horse River does not have any of these rapids. At least not on the sections that local outfitters guide rafting trips on!
courtesy of Tourism Golden - Dave Best Photography
Frequently Asked Questions
Is whitewater rafting safe?
Absolutely! The mighty Kicking Horse River has sections that are perfect for beginners and families, particularly the upper canyon with its gentle Class I and II rapids. Regardless of which local company you choose for river rafting in Golden, you'll be led by a professional guide who knows the river like the back of his or her hands. Even on the most adventurous tours, the primary goal is for all participants to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
What should I wear rafting?
Comfort and safety are key. Avoid cotton and, instead, wear quick-drying clothing like wool or synthetic blends. While it may be tempting to wear shorts or swimwear, keep in mind that the water is extremely cold year-round (remember, it comes from an ice field!). Many outfitters provide wetsuits, booties, and, for more advanced rafting trips, helmets.
What company should we book with?
Kicking Horse Lodging recommends three Golden whitewater rafting companies. All three are small, locally-owned businesses that really prioritize the guest experience. And in fact, they all work closely with one another! Each company offers unique rafting trips, so the best strategy is to choose one that resonates with your group's experience level and preferences.
Alpine Rafting: Gentle family rafting starting at age four, up to full-day heli-rafting trips that include 22 kilometres of pure whitewater and a helicopter ride into otherwise inaccessible sections of the Lower Canyon. Many trips also include riverside BBQ lunch.
Glacier Raft Company: Not to be confused with the outfitter of the same name in Glacier National Park, Montana, this family-run business operates five different rafting tours down the river, including some exclusive routes and heli-rafting.
Wild Water Adventures: A top Kicking Horse River outfitter since 1992, Wild Water offers five rafting trips plus a range of 'add-ons,' including hiking, sightseeing, Via Ferrata adventures, and more.
Where is the best place to stay for river rafting in Golden?
Kicking Horse Lodging is the ideal basecamp for experiencing whitewater rafting—and everything else Golden has to offer in the summer! Just a short trip up the mountain from the put-ins along the river, we offer a variety of comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities.
After an exciting day on the water, relax in your cozy lodge-style room or a private cabin. Book your stay—and your whitewater rafting adventure—today!
