Family Whitewater Rafting Experience in Golden, BC

This introduction to whitewater is for individuals and families who want to experience the wonders of the outdoors by river. This section allows families with children, beginners or older adults, who only want a mild whitewater experience to enjoy the Kicking Horse River. From Class 1 to small Class 3 rapids, this part of the river starts in Yoho National Park and is mainly a scenic float with some gentle rapids. Ending at our lunch spot, you will then be served up a delicious riverside BBQ lunch.

Our trip departs in Yoho National Park, and finds us rolling along the calmer sections of the Kicking Horse River is awe of majestic peaks and crystal clear glacially-fed waters. We spend 1.5 hours on the river, with opportunities to get splashed a few times. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, deer and mountain goats. Once at our Private Riverside Lunch spot, it's time to enjoy a hearty Rocky Mountain Meal!

Estimated Driving times from Golden, BC to:

~~ Calgary, AB - 3 hours - 165 miles
~~ Banff, AB 2 hours - 87 miles
~~ Edmonton, AB - 6 hours - 347 miles
~~ Radium, BC - 1 hour, 10 minutes - 65 miles
~~ Kamloops, BC - 5 hours - 225 miles
~~ Vancouver, BC 8.5 hours - 442 miles
~~ Spokane, WA, USA 7 hours - 342 miles

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

~~ Where are the trips run?
Our trips are on the Kicking Horse River. Our river "put in" is located in Yoho National Park, but individuals and groups must meet in Golden BC at our office (the end of the river trip). Golden, British Columbia is located 30 minutes from the Alberta Border and 45 minutes from Banff, and Banff National Park.

~~ Do you have many different sized wetsuits?
Yes, we have sizes from small to XXXXL. There has never been a situation where a guest has not been fitted with a wetsuit.

~~ Is white water rafting safe?
All outdoor adventure based activities have a degree of risk attached. The simple answer is that river rafting is not 100% safe but we take every precaution in safety so having a fun filled day can be yours. Our Guides have extensive experience in river safety and that is our priority. We have the best river equipment available and because of these reasons, we are able to minimize the risk in river rafting.

~~ If it is raining can we still go?
The Kicking Horse River is renowned for many things, fantastic whitewater being the biggest. Guess what - whether it is raining or not you will be absolutely soaked after the first wave. This is okay because you will be wearing a protective wetsuit, fleece and splash jacket to keep you warm. When you are in the middle of an exciting rapid, rain is usually the last thing on your minds.

~~ What equipment will you provide?
We provide all river equipment. This includes: Wetsuit, Splash Jacket, Fleece, Booties, Lifejacket and Helmet. All you need to bring is a bathing suit, towel and waterproof camera (optional and at your own risk).

~~ What will be expected of me during the white water trip?
The level of participation is entirely left up to you. You can paddle and get totally involved or sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

~~ Can I still go if I have a medical condition?
Only you know what your level of physical capacity is. We recommend that if you are concerned about pre-existing medical conditions to consult your physician before participating in a rafting trip. We have guided people down the river who are diabetic, have cancer or with other medical conditions. Many people who are physically challenged such as amputees and persons with paraplegia have not only gone down the Kicking Horse but have done it with confidence and style. Please give us a call if you have any questions.

~~ Can my entire family go?
We offer trips down the Kicking Horse River suitable for ages 6 and up. Because this river has a wide variety of river rapids at different grades this allows those who are novices or experienced to participate. We offer different trips to best suit your needs.

~~ Have you ever had anyone feel uncomfortable going through the big rapids?
Yes, some people do feel uneasy when they see the big rapids; this is part of the experience. The choice to run the rapids is left up to you. If the decision is made not to run the rapids then you simply walk around and we pick you up on a sandy beach below - no pressure.

~~ What about alcohol?
Drinking is not permitted before or while you are engaged in whitewater rafting. Anyone who is drinking or appears to be intoxicated before the trip will be denied participation. Refunds or alternate dates will not be given.

~~ How far from Banff Alberta are you?
Surprisingly not far at all. The Kicking Horse is the only river that offers 4+ rapids in the area. Our scenic camping spot is 50 minutes from Banff, and the (meeting place) is 1 hour and thirty minutes from Banff.

Minimum age is 4; child prices apply to ages 4 through 12. Pick-up is only available from Golden area hotels. Rates are per person in US dollars and include taxes. Please reserve online, or call us toll-free at 800-719-2186.