Family Rafting Adventure | Kicking Horse River

Kootenay Rockies , Canada

Family Rafting Adventure | Kicking Horse River

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(51 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a mild whitewater rafting trip on the Kicking Horse River, the best rafting river in the Canadian Rockies. On this gentle rafting expedition, spend an hour paddling Class I and II rapids at a leisurely pace with your guide, and maybe even share in a rival raft water fight!. This trip is for perfect for the little adventurers. This activity is for families with children 8-11 years.

Available options

Family Whitewater

What's included

Certified guide

All river-rafting equipment

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This family river rafting tour is on the famous Kicking Horse River, located approximately 1.25 hours west of Banff. The Kicking Horse is one of Canada's premier destinations for fun, sun and river rapids! We operate all of your rafting trips on this stretch of river. The Family Rafting Adventure rafts the gentle upper canyon.

This is our raft base and where all the action starts. Have some little adventurers and want a gentle raft trip? The Family Whitewater Adventure is perfect for families seeking a calmer river experience. Starting from our private river base, enjoy a serene float down the Kicking Horse River. Marvel at the scenery, lookout for wildlife and enjoy some commentary from our friendly guides. Then, it’s onto some whitewater! Get a taste of the rapids, enjoy the splashes from class 1-3 waves and maybe even share in a rival raft water fight. At trips end, back in dry clothes, check out your group rafting shots in our lodge and maybe pick up a souvenir of your day.

Lunch may be available for purchase on the day.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Photos of your adventure are available for purchase

No food and drink provided. Snacks available for purchase

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

46 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 8 years

Children must weigh at least 50 lbs (23 kg) to participate

This trip is reserved for families with children ages 8 to 11

Your trip includes all river-rafting gear: wetsuit, fleece, spray jacket, life jacket, neoprene booties and helmet. It is recommended that you bring a towel and swimsuit.

Meeting point

Meeting Place: Hydra River Guides - River Base: 2936 Kicking Horse Road, Golden, BC

Important notes

• Please note: This is a family trip for families with children aged 8 - 11 years. We do not take Adult Only Groups on this trip as space is reserved for those groups with young children between the age of 8-11 years.
• We recommend that you bring a bathing suit, towel and bag for your clothes and personal belongings

About Kootenay Rockies

The Kootenay Rockies is a breathtaking region in British Columbia, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and rich Indigenous heritage. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and charming small towns, making it a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Top Attractions

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and the Burgess Shale fossil beds.

Nature Full day to multiple days Park entry fee: CAD 10.50 per adult (daily pass)

Radium Hot Springs

Radium Hot Springs is a popular destination for its natural hot springs, set in a beautiful mountain landscape. It's a great place to relax and unwind.

Nature/Relaxation A few hours to a full day Entry fee: CAD 8.50 per adult

Fort Steele Heritage Town

Fort Steele is a living history museum that recreates a 19th-century mining town. Visitors can explore historic buildings, watch reenactments, and learn about the region's gold rush era.

Historical/Cultural A few hours Entry fee: CAD 12 per adult

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison

Locally sourced bison, often grilled or served in stews, is a regional specialty.

Main Course Gluten-free options available

Wild Salmon

Freshly caught wild salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try.

Main Course Gluten-free options available

Kootenay Apple Pie

A traditional dessert made with locally grown apples.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Whitewater rafting Mountain biking Hot springs Spa treatments Scenic drives

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's the peak season for hiking, camping, and water sports.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Pacific Standard Time (PST, UTC-8) or Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, UTC-7) depending on the season

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Kootenay Rockies is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, outdoor activities can pose risks, and travelers should be prepared and informed.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for sudden weather changes
• Carry a map and compass for hiking and outdoor activities
• Inform someone of your plans when venturing into remote areas

Getting there

By air

Cranbrook Airport • 10 km from Cranbrook city center
Castlegar Airport • 15 km from Castlegar city center

By train

Cranbrook Station

By bus

Cranbrook, Castlegar, Nelson

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are available in larger towns but may not be frequent or extensive. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for most travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fernie Nelson Golden

Day trips

Banff National Park

120 km from Yoho National Park • Full day

Banff National Park is one of Canada's most famous national parks, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife.

Glacier National Park

50 km from Revelstoke, BC • Full day

Glacier National Park offers stunning mountain landscapes, glaciers, and alpine meadows, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Kootenay Lake

Within the Kootenay Rockies region • Half day to full day

Kootenay Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, offering a variety of water-based activities and scenic views.

Festivals

Nelson Jazz Festival • Early August Fernie International Music Festival • Mid-July to early August Kootenay Lake Labor Day Classic • Labor Day weekend

Pro tips

Visit in the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Pack layers for variable weather and sudden changes
Book accommodations and popular activities in advance during peak season
Respect wildlife and their habitats, and follow guidelines for outdoor activities
Support local businesses and communities by shopping and dining locally