Whitewater Rafting on the Kicking Horse River

Active Adventure

The Kicking Horse River boasts big waves, continuous rapids and a rich Wild West history. Carving a passage through the spectacular Kicking Horse canyon, the river is set amongst some of the best scenery in the Canadian Rockies.

Hydra River Guides has been introducing visitors to the thrills of rafting for 23 years. The safety and enjoyment of our guests is paramount. We constantly enhance our rafting adventures to ensure guests have a memorable rafting experience.

Each section of river has its own rhythm, challenges and rewards. With 3 distinctive trips on offer, from our Mild and Classic Adventures to our thrilling Ultimate Adventure, the Kicking Horse River has something for everyone.


All our rafting tours include certified guides, river gear, BBQ lunch and access to our private river site facility complete with change room, bathrooms, picnic area and volley ball courts.

Typical Day

Mild Whitewater AdventureMeet at River Base at 9.45amMeet guides, gear up & safety speechRaft for 1 1/4 hours Return to river base, changeBBQ lunch and beach volleyballKicking Horse Classic2 departures dailyMeet at river base 9.45am OR 1pm Meet guides, gear up & safety speechRaft for 2 1/2 hours Return to river base, changeBBQ lunch and beach volleyball(lunch is prior to rafting for clients on the 1pm tour)Ultimate AdventureMeet at riverbase 1pmSign in and enjoy BBQ lunchMeet guides, gear up & safety speechRaft for 3 1/2 hours Return to river base, change

Age range, type of group

Mild Whitewater Adventure - (ages 5 -11yrs)This trip is suitable for children and young families. Experience gentle rapids while enjoying the scenery of the Kicking Horse Canyon.Kicking Horse Classic - (ages 12+)This trip is suitable for the first time rafter. Once on the water, this unforgettable journey begins calmly, allowing rafters to familiarize themselves with the raft, their paddles and their guides' commands. As the Canyon narrows, the rapids of the mighty Kicking Horse begin a whitewater experience taking rafters through up to class 4+ rapids, finishing 20km downstream!Ultimate Whitewater Adventure - (16+)This trip is suitable for those who want something a little more adventurous. Challenge the rapids of the upper and lower canyon before floating into the town of Golden.

Sleeping and meals

campfire, picnic area for BBQ lunch

Restrictions

Mild Adventure- participants must be 5 yrs of age and weigh at least 45lbsKicking Horse Classic - participants must be 12 yrs of age and weigh at least 90lbsUltimate Adventure - participants must be 16 yrs of age and weigh at least 90lbs

Other Information

All river gear is provided.Participants need to bring a towl, bathing suit and bag to keep your belongings in.