Wild Water Adventures
Wild Water Adventures
Now entering into their 15th year of operation, Wild Water Adventures Inc. proudly owns the reputation of providing the finest whitewater rafting trips in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
***RECOMMENDED*** For those wanting a full day whitewater rafting trip. Great introduction with calmer waters at the beginning and rapids increasing throughout the trip as you build confidence. Must be 12yrs+.
This exhilarating trip combines the excellent rapids of the famous whitewater trip with the scenic, gentler upper section of the Kicking Horse River. You'll enjoy over 25kms, and 2.5 to 3 hours of rafting time.
You'll start your trip by enjoying a narrated drive through Banff National park aboard our comfortable mini-coach with your Wild Water driver and escort. (If you prefer, you may choose to be more independent and self-drive to the RiverBase).
At the newly built RiverBase, you'll meet your guides as they assist you in selecting your personal and safety gear. After changing in the warm, indoor changerooms, you'll be shuttled to your starting point on the river, where your rafts are ready and waiting for you.
As with all trips, you'll receive a thorough safety briefing, preparing you for your journey, first-timer or experienced rafting veteran. Then, some final paddling instruction with your guide and away you go.
"Alarm Clock" is your first taste of action and it is an aptly named rapid, it wakes you up in a hurry. A few more smaller rapids (class II) are enjoyed before the river widens and you enjoy the spectacular views and some informative tidbits from your guide.
The second half of the trip on the river offers the best of the river. Plenty of rapids provide a natural roller-coaster ride not soon forgotten. The rapids range to class IV+ and their continuity is most impressive.
Off the river, you'll be shuttled back to the RiverBase and warm up in dry clothes while your delicious barbecue lunch is being prepared for you. Tasty marinated chicken breast, wrapped between fresh, french rolls and complimented with salads, fresh fruit and tasty bakery treats satisfy your appetite at our lunch location overlooking the Kicking Horse Valley. Hot and cold beverages compliment your meal.
After a short visit to the River's Edge gift shop for a few last minute souvenirs, it's back to the bus and your return to Banff or Lake Louise.
Meet at RiverBase = $119.00 without Transportation, $139.00 including transportation
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
All rafting equipment, transportation (available for fee), full lunch served with hot & cold beverages, use of the "RiverBase".
YOU NEED TO BRING:
Swimsuit & towel
MINIMUM AGE:
12 years old & 90lbs (40kgs, 6.5st.)
TRIP TIMES:
Daily from Banff - 7:45am - 4:00pm
from Lake Louise - 8:15am - 3:00pm
PLEASE NOTE: All trips include a $3 per person Government Land Use Fee.
RAPID RATINGS:
Despite what Hollywood would like to have you believe, rivers are not all like the movie "The River Wild"! In reality, each river varies in the number and intensity of rapids. Between rapids, there is often plenty of opportunity to relax, view the scenery, enjoy the information about the area that your guide will share with you, or take photos.
An international scale that rates individual rapids from class I (easy) to class VI (nearly impossible) is used in all our river descriptions. A rapid may vary in terms of time from just a few seconds to 20 seconds or more.
Class I
"Wild Water definition: Very relaxing." Gentle, moving water. Very small waves requiring little or no maneuvering.
Class II
"Wild Water definition: You may get splashed." Regular waves, easy to see, may reach 3 to 4 feet in height. Avoiding rocks, river bends or other obstacles may require simple maneuvering.
Class III
"Wild Water definition: You will get wet!" Large, continuous series or sets of waves, some in excess of 6 feet. "Holes" or "hydraulics" may be present, and can be run or avoided. Small drops, ledges or waterfalls may be present. Scouting the rapids is suggested for all but the most experienced of river persons.
Class IV
"Wild Water definition: You'll get soaked. like a 9 or 10 on the "fun scale"! Confused and erratic waves or holes. Large obstructions need to be avoided in what are referred to as "must moves". Risk of injury if swimming without benefit of a raft. Very difficult and scouting is required.
Class V
"Wild Water definition: Adrenaline junkies only! For most people, class V goes off the "fun" scale and enters the "kinda scary" scale! Very challenging for even the most experienced river persons. High risk of capsize or injury. Limit of navigation and scouting is essential.
Class VI
"Wild Water definition: Niagara Falls in a barrel!" Virtually non-navigable, or navigable only at particularly favorable river levels.
REMEMBER! This scale is subjective. Rapids can change in difficulty seasonally and as quickly as overnight! This scale is meant only as a guideline for how easy or difficult a rapid, river or river trip may be. It is best to speak with one of our knowledgeable reservationists to find out what the river level may be like at the time when you would like to raft, and assist you is choosing the best trip.
DEPOSIT/PAYMENT/CANCELLATION POLICIES:
48hr cancellation notice required or non-refundable.
Multi Day Banff Rafting Trips
Stay for a night or two and enjoy twoexceptional days of river rafting in the Canadian Rockies, on the area’s best whitewater river. Guaranteed to thrill and soak every rafter from head to toe, these package rafting trips are second to none and offer outstanding rafting value!
You choose the Banf white water rafting trip, either our PREMIUM rafting packageor our ELITE rafting package that best suits your adventure level and budget. Then, choose the accommodation you prefer from luxurious cabins to rustic camping, and you will have created your own unique Kicking Horse River Escape.
PREMIUM 2 DAY RAFTING PACKAGE
THIS TRIP IS IDEAL FOR THOSE WHO ARE SEEKING A FUN RIVER EXPERIENCE, ARE MORE VALUE CONSCIOUS, OR HAVE RAFTERS UNDER THE AGE OF 16.
Day 1: 2:00pm – Meeting at our RiverBase, you’ll be greeted by your guides & will be outfitted with your personal river gear. We’ll head to our exclusive put-in on the Kicking Horse River and, after safety instructions & demonstrations, splash through this river famous for its world-class whitewater. After enjoying some tasty snacks back at our River Base, the evening in the Rockies is yours to enjoy! You may choose to take a hike, relax with a book or visit the mountain town of Golden or simply enjoy time in your cabin or at your campsite with friends & family over a sizzling BBQ & under the star filled mountain sky.
Day 2: 8:45am at the RiverBase. Today we’ll start up higher on the river & enjoy the scenery as we float through Yoho National Park
Available any two consecutive days throughout the summer operating season. Contact Wild Water Adventures.
What is included: All rafting equipment, transportation to and from our RiverBase, light refreshments on Day 1, delicious barbecue lunch on Day 2, and FREE TRIP PHOTOS!($20 value)
ELITE 2 DAY RAFTING PACKAGE
THIS TRIP IS A MUST FOR THOSE SEEKING THE MOST EXCITING WHITEWATER IN THE AREA.
Day 1: 8:45am – Meet at the RiverBase to gear up for your first of two exciting days on the Kicking Horse! You’ll meet your rafting guides, select your river and safety gear and board your shuttle that takes you into Yoho National Park where you’ll enjoy the scenery and some introductory small rapids. The momentum and excitement levels build as we enter the legendary middle section of the Kicking Horse River where crashing waves and rollercoaster wave trains thrill and soak you. After a delicious barbecue lunch back at our RiverBase, you’ll be free to explore the area. The town of Golden is just 20 minutes away, or you can hike into spectacular Wapta Falls, “The Niagara of the Rockies.”
Day 2: Today we will meet at the RiverBase at 2:00pm. Once on the river, we will challenge not only the famous “Portage and Shotgun” rapids for a second round, but then you will venture into the challenging “Lower Canyon” and it’s famous, consistent class IV and IV+ rapids. Full of smiles & with a healthy appetite we’ll head back to the RiverBase for some snacks and where we end a truly memorable two days of rafting on the world renowned Kicking Horse River.
Tuesday/Wednesday and Friday/Saturday from early July to late August. (Contact usfor dates and availability. Sat./Sun. trips also available…please contact us.)
All rafting equipment, transportation to and from our RiverBase, lunch on Day 1, andFREE TRIP PHOTOS! ($20 value)
Meet the Team
TED & LIZ
I guess it must’ve been fate, if you believe in that, which brought Liz and I together in 1988. What else can you attribute it to? Here’s a guy from east of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, traveling in far North Queensland, Australia and, pursuing his career in outdoor adventure leadership, lands a job with the largest and most successful rafting company in Australia. Meanwhile, a girl from Nottingham, England, traveling on her gap year, pursuing a Masters Degree in Recreation Management, goes rafting and meets the above-mentioned guy by being assigned to his raft. You can piece together the rest.
Liz and I are partners in life and in business, which does come with its challenges! However, it has seemed to work for the two of us, and we love the life that “fate” started in motion for us on a rafting trip on the other side of the world. We enjoy building a great team of friendly and talented people each summer, and love being outside as much as we are in our beautiful Canadian Rocky Mountains, and our home in Lake Louise. What we most enjoy, however, is bringing so much joy, fun and positive energy to the thousands of guests who join us each year to share in our passion of the river. I hope you come and see us for the first time, or, in the case of our returning guests, revisit us again soon.
COOKIE/RIVERBASE MANAGER
Hometown: Reporoa, New Zealand
How long have your worked in Tourism?
16 years. I like working in the outdoors and also talking people’s ears off, so the tourism industry suits me!! 
What do you like the most about working for Wild Water?
The river itself is great fun with awesome rapids, in a beautiful spot. I really like that all the guides and staff take the time to chat to the guests before and after trips.
What are your favorite places you’ve been to?
Wow, big question! There are a few that stick out because they were AMAZING! Driving across the salt flats in Bolivia, rafting the Apurimac River in Peru for 4 days, sleeping on top of Mt Ruapehu for a New Years, going into the centre of the second Pyramid in Egypt, hiking Stromboli off the coast of Italy at night and seeing lava as it bubbled away and did mini explosions, waking up to a bluebird morning on Tocher Ridge in the Rockies, my first heli-canyon …. the list goes on ….
What do you like to do away from work?
In the winter I LOVE snowboarding! At home in NZ I love to go canyoning, and in Canada I love hiking to amazing views and doing canoe/camping trips. Oh and the odd beer with friends!
What most people don’t know about you?
Hmmm … the colour pink makes me thirsty, I like to interpret what cows are saying and I’m onto my third tickle trunk.
TARQUINO/HEAD GUIDE
Hometown: Puerto Napo, Ecuador
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
Year-round for 13 years. In Ecuador, where I grew up, there are many rivers, I grew up playing on the river, on wood canoes, wood rafts and inner tubes. My passion for the water led me into the rafting industry when it was introduced in my country.
What do you like the most about working for Wild Water?
I like the system of organization, the trips and the people who come to enjoy us.
What’s the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Ecuador, because I’m from there, and even as a small country we have jungle, highlands, ocean and Galapagos. Canadian Rockies, because it’s a wonderful place.
What is your favorite thing to do away from work?
Enjoy life, kayaking, rafting, and South American football.
Craziest thing you’ve ever seen while you’ve been traveling?
I went to Baños, which is a town in Ecuador, for training guides, and we saw the eruption of the Tungurahua volcano.
Who has been the most interesting guest you have had on a raft?
Everybody is interesting, but I remember I had a guest who was 87 years old, and he was really active!
Something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
I’m sentimental.
ANDREW/TRIP LEADER
Hometown: Oxford, England
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
This year will be my 13th season. I finished University, and I thought it would be a fun thing to do for a year while I was traveling, before going back to the UK and getting a ‘proper’ job. Little did I know, 13 years later I’d still be rafting and traveling!
What do you like the most about working on the Kicking Horse or for Wild Water?
The Kicking Horse is a super fun and interesting river to guide. Wild Water has good quality, well-maintained equipment.
What’s the most beautiful or favorite place you have ever been?
The Galapagos Islands – The wildlife comes up to you. I had really amazing encounters with the animals on the islands – swam with a pod of 50 baby hammerhead sharks, played with the sea lions and the penguins, had a bird land beside me at the beach and hung out for 20 minutes.
Who has been the most interesting guest you have had on a raft?
Kevin Bacon. Who, coincidentally, starred in The River Wild. But he didn’t want to guide the raft through any of the rapids, unfortunately.
JUAN/TRIP LEADER
Hometown: San Gil Santander, Columbia
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
Since 1996, so, 17 years. What started as a hobby grew into an economic source. Rafting for me is more than a job it is a passion, which has helped me to visit more than nine countries, and make countless friends around the world.
What do you like the most about working on the Kicking Horse?
Because the water is warm…..just kidding! Kicking Horse has a great quality of rapid, and wonderful scenery!
What’s the most beautiful or favorite place you have ever been?
Futaleufu Patagonia, Chile. As the saying goes, is a landscape painted by god. It is one of the icons in white water rafting around the world!
Most interesting guest you have had on a raft?
In one of the expeditions in southern Chile, I had the chance to meet Bobby Kennedy, a great person, who is very interested in saving Patagonia.
JOSH/TRIP LEADER, RED DEER
Hometown: Alberta, Canada
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
7 straight years, full time. Longest period I’ve been off the water is about 1 month, over those 7 years. I got into rafting because it was the only job I actually got offered in 2006 for about 20 positions I applied for, and I’ve been doing it ever since….and haven’t regretted it once!
What do you like the most about working on the Kicking Horse or for Wild Water?
I love how continuous the river flows. It’s practically non-stop from start to finish of solid grade 2-4, all summer long. Very few rivers in the world offer this type of trip. And working for Wild Water is a blast, extremely professional and consistently gets repeat business year after year and offers trips for all age groups.
What’s the most beautiful or favorite place you have ever been?
The island of Thailand, and the coasts of Africa. Spectacular places to both visit and live.
Craziest thing you’ve seen while you’ve been traveling?
The wildlife of Africa! I’ve seen man eating crocs up close, some of the world’s deadliest snakes, been chased by the most poisonous snakes and by a 3000 lbs hippo … scariest moment of my life!
What is your favorite river?
Cataract Canyon in USA, on the Colorado River. It was an amazing 5-day expedition that 5 friends and I organized, and ran in 2006.
Most fun thing you’ve done?
Trek the mountain gorillas in southern Uganda. It was amazing to see some big and powerful animals inches away. One even decided to sit on my foot and rub up against my leg!
CARLOS/SENIOR GUIDE
Hometown: San Jose, Costa Rica
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
Since 2006.
How did you start rafting?
When I was little, I was always swimming & tubing on rivers. At 16, I met a couple of kayakers by the river and asked them if I could use that “awesome canoe”,
and then I started learning more about White Water Kayaking & Rafting.
What do you like the most about working for Wild Water?
It’s always a great ride out there, no matter what the weather conditions or the water levels are. I enjoy to seeing all our guests having such as great time! And I love the Hot Chocolate & the Cookies after the trips!!
What’s the most beautiful or favorite place you have ever been?
Montezuma Beach, this is in Pacific Cost of Costa Rica. You feel like if you were in “Avatar” or “Jurassic Park” it’s paradise.
What is your favorite thing to do away from work?
Surfing, concerts and big music festivals.
Most fun thing you’ve done?
Sky Diving in Golden BC, and learning Snowboarding in the Ski Hills around Banff, Alberta.
If you were a cartoon character, who do you think you’d be?
Ace Ventura Pet Detective, I talk to animals and they understand me, and in Costa Rica, I have a monkey friend, just like Ace!
ED/SENIOR GUIDE
Hometown: Cardiff, Wales
How many years have you been professionally rafting for? 3 years. I was a regular freestyle kayaker at the Cardiff International White Water course and the head raft guide asked me have I ever thought about getting into it. I’ve been hooked ever since!
What are you looking forward to the most about working on the Kicking Horse or for Wild Water?
For me, the Kicking Horse is a very demanding river and it’s going to bring new challenges. I’ve heard a lot about it in the UK, and I feel privileged that I’ve been offered a job here!
What’s your favorite place you have ever been?
The Great Barrier Reef, in Australia. Diving there was incredible!
Craziest thing you’ve seen while traveling?
This has to be Uganda. I was driving a Toyota Hi-Ace through Kampala the capital of Uganda (Driving there is an experience itself!). I was driving though a busy street, and there were two men carrying a steel garage door across the street. Boda Bodas (Motor-Bikes) were ducking and driving between the two men and under the garage door! It was crazy!
Most interesting guest you have had on a raft?
I had a gentleman dressed up as Batman once, who was very funny indeed, but Robin wasn’t feeling too good so he was a bit quiet.
JAVIER/SENIOR GUIDE
Hometown: Cusco, Peru
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
9 years. I discovered my passion for white water on several rafting trips as part of my 4 year Tourism degree. It seemed like the best job in the world to me!
What do you like the most about working for Wild Water?
It is a great company, well organized, and there is a good work atmosphere between employers and employees.
What’s your favorite place you have ever been?
Machu Picchu, Jerusalem is the other place I’ve liked most because of the impressive buildings.
What is your favorite thing to do away from work?
Travel and to do outdoor activities. Canyoning is the best I’ve ever done, with some beautiful slices, 2 hours from Cusco, Peru.
What is your favorite river?
So far my favorite river is the Apurimac (Peru) because it is one of the most challenging rivers I’ve been on.
What most people don’t know about you?
I’m really shy, and everybody thinks I’m very extroverted.
If you were a cartoon character, who do you think you’d be?
Sponge Bob, hahaha!!!
DUNCAN/SENIOR GUIDE
Hometown: Pleasant Point, New Zealand
How many years have you been professionally rafting for?
6 years. I started kayaking at school and loved it, then got the chance to train up as a raft guide after school. I took a job when it was offered as I loved the whitewater.
What are you looking forward to the most about working on the Kicking Horse?
I am looking forward to doing some oar boat guiding, and also looking forward to being on a well renowned river in the beautiful scenery.
What’s your favorite place you have ever been?
Anywhere in New Zealand. I haven’t found a better country yet.
What is your favorite thing to do away from work?
I enjoy doing farm work. I am lucky that I have two jobs that I would do even if unpaid.
Who has been the most interesting crew you have had on a raft?
I took the Nitro Circus crew rafting down the Rangitata back in 2011 for their NZ tour. They weren’t as crazy in a raft as I thought they would be.
Special Offers
BANFF, ALBERTA RAFTING & ACTIVITY PACKAGES
Looking for activities in Banff? We’ve got Banff rafting and activity packages that will save you money on your vacation. Book our special package activities in Banff and enjoy a thrilling rafting adventure combined with one of the other great summer activitites available in the Banff area. Check back often for seasonal discounts! Check back often for seasonal discounts!
RAFTING SPECIALS 2013!
“RAPID REPLAY” SPECIAL!
RAFT AGAIN, SAME DAY, FOR JUST HALF PRICE!
Call and ask us for details, or simply wait until you’ve finished your trip and see if the spirit moves you to experience a “RAPID REPLAY”!. (Cannot be combined with other offers. 50% off of regular published 2013 retail rate for your chosen trip. Booking must be for the next scheduled trip departure ONLY, and is subject to availability. Other conditions apply.)
NEW! “UP THE MOUNTAIN AND DOWN THE RIVER ACTIVITY PACKAGE.”
You can now combine and save on two of the most popular activities in Lake Louise, The Lake Louise Sightseeing Lift and Gondola, and an exhilarating half-day rafting experience (Gentle or Whitewater trip) on the nearby Kicking Horse River with Wild Water Adventures. Activity package includes Lift tickets, Whitewater Exciter rafting tour or Gentle rafting trip, and your choice of a delicious buffet breakfast or lunch. Rates including our Gentle trip are $70.00 (ages 8-15) and $100.25 for Adults. Rates including the Whitewater Exciter are $100.60 (ages 12-15) and $113.85 for ages 16+. (Prices do not included taxes.)
RAFTING & ACTIVITY PACKAGE SPECIALS ALL SUMMER LONG
KANANASKIS RIVER RAFTING TRIPS
Winding through the picturesque landscape of Kananaskis Country, the Kananaskis River is a great whitewater experience for younger families. Partnering with our friends at Chinook Rafting, the “Kan” is conveniently located just 45 minutes west of Calgary. This river offers the novice a fun and mild introduction to whitewater rafting. $79 Adults, $52 Youths, 5-15.
KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTIES!
Be a SUPER-MOM or SUPER-DAD and choose a birthday bash that’s SO uniquely fun and different from usual birthday parties that your child will remember it always. For ages 8-14, your party includes up to 9 youths and one adult on our GENTLErafting trip. You’ll have your own raft with guide, and includes:
-Birthday Cake.
-FREE T-shirt for the birthday boy/girl.
-FREE Photo CD as a gift for everyone!
Leave the planning (and the post party cleanup!) to us! $499 plus taxes
BUY YOUR OWN BOATLOAD (B.Y.O.B.) PRIVATE RAFTING TRIP.
Keep the raft exclusive for your friends, company or family, and, of course, your Wild Water guide. For 4 to 8 rafters, you’ll have the raft to yourselves without others…theultimate “private” rafting experience! Call us for great rates!
SMALLER RAFTS, BIGGER FUN!
Your group is in for a totally unique and exciting experience with our smaller 14′, “all-paddle” rafts. You’ve never seen the river this way. Perfect for those who enjoy paddle rafting or have been with us before on one of our standard trips. Honestly? This is our guides favorite trip offering! For 5-7 rafters. Whitewater Exciter $639. Tradition $959. All prices plus taxes.
CELEBRATE ANY OCCASION WITH US!
WILD WATER LOVES REUNIONS . . . AND WEDDINGS, STAGS/STAGETTES, BIRTHDAYS, COMPANY TEAMBUILDING SESSIONS, ETC!!
Start your planning NOW and prepare to bring your special group rafting in 2013 and receive fantastic discounts…the more you bring, the more you’ll save! Special group discounts start with just 8 rafters. Discounts or FREE TRIPS available for the Bride, Groom, birthday boy/girl, etc. Contact us for your FREE Group Planning kit!
….AND FINALLY, a HUGE THANK YOU!! from Liz, myself and all the team here at Wild Water to each of our guests who joined us for some great fun on the river in 2012,
making it a very successful 21st anniversary for us! The water levels will be fantasticin 2013 due to great snowfall this winter so come and share in the great fun we’ll be having!
Bookings are off to a great start and heating up for a fantastic July and August, but be sure to enjoy the high water in June…many of our return guests come back year after year to enjoy the best water levels of the season!
Many of our most popular and most requested guides are back, like “Mr. T”, Josh, Juan, “Costa Rican” Carlos and new river professionals from New Zealand, Australia and England…and, we expect longtime favorites Lovely Lindsay, Jenn, Big Bruce and Rockin’ Rodney will do some “guest guiding” appearances as well! Be sure to let us know of any “guide requests” and we’ll do our best to accommodate you. And, you can bet you’ll see me on the river from time to time…it’s why I started the business in the first place, and it’s WAY too much fun to pass up!
See ya on the river! Ted
Trip Planning
PLANNING YOUR BANFF RAFTING ADVENTURES
After checking our Banff rafting rates and purchasing your Banff vacation package, the real trip planning begins. Find out about the rafting gear you’ll need for your Banff adventures, and ask about other things to do in the Banff, Alberta area. Also check out our FAQs for answers to all your Canada rafting questions.
YOUR PERSONAL RAFTING GEAR
Warmth and security
- Government approved, whitewater lifejackets and helmets
- 5 mm, expedition weight wetsuits
- Thick soled wetsuit booties (so you won’t need river shoes)
- Warm, fleece sweaters
- Neoprene gloves to keep your hands comfortable while rafting
- Hooded nylon spray or paddle jackets
RAFTING EQUIPMENT
Rafting can be one of the most enjoyable things to do in Banff, but only when you have the proper rafting equipment. We choose only the best equipment for the job and refuse to cut corners when it comes to selecting gear for use on the river. Our “self-bailing” rafts are technologically on the leading edge of raft design and perform exceptionally well on tough, whitewater rivers. Our variety of models can be modified by the guide to use either our custom-made rowing frames, in which some of the crew paddle and some simply enjoy the ride, or we can arrange to have the entire crew paddling under the instruction of your guide. This versatility enables us to select the most appropriate rafting style for each crew, the different rivers on which we operate and the constantly changing water levels. Generally, we use our “oar with paddle assist” setup for our half-day trips, while our multi-day trips are “all-paddle.”
OUR RIVERBASE DAYLODGE – OUR OPERATIONS HUB
Warm change rooms, large, sunny deck (on which to enjoy a hot coffee, bakery treats and a chat with your guide following your river trip) and equipment cleaning and drying rooms are the features that you’ll find at our beautiful new building. Located on 13 wooded acres overlooking the river valley, we are easy to find just off the Trans-Canada Highway, 1hr 20 min. west of Banff and 45 min. west of Lake Louise.
YOU WILL NEED
We will provide you with as much essential equipment as is possible, however, you will need to bring a few personal items for your trip. For all of our trips, you will need to bring:
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Warm clothes to change into after your trip
FAQz
Got questions? We thought you might, so, to make it easy to find the answers, we’ve broken our FAQz down into five categories for you.
On The River
Equipment
Safety
Meals
And Finally…
GENERAL RIVER RAFTING QUESTIONS
Should I go rafting? I’ve never been!
It’s important for you to know that most of our guests are first timers and we’ve designed our trips, equipment and safety briefings to be “first timer friendly”. All we require is that you have a good desire for fun and adventure and you’ll have a terrific time…and likely be back for more!
I’ve been rafting before…will it be exciting enough for me?
The Kicking Horse is a class IV to IV+ river through most of our operating season. If you’ve been rafting before, but never on the Kicking Horse, you’ll be impressed by the continuity of the river…lots of rapids and very little “calm time”. Also, unlike other rivers, no paddling is required to get from one rapid to the next! If you’ve been rafting before, we want to make sure you get the right trip, so just contact us.
Why you guys?
Excellent question and we’re glad you asked! The Kicking Horse River is renowned as a great river for rafting and, of course, there are others who run the river. While fun on the river is always what we strive for, we believe there is more to it than just that. You want to know that we are “Serious about Safety”. (See our “Guides” section below.) You want your trip to run on schedule, be greeted with friendly, happy, helpful and knowledgeable staff and get great value on your trip. That’s what we’re known for. We know that you want clean gear that gets replaced and upgraded frequently, clean facilities and a secure place for your personal items while on the river. You’ll get that from us, just the way that we’ve been doing it now for over 22 years…it’s what we love to do and how we earned the trust and loyalty of our many return guests, sales agents, wholesalers, tour operators, fine hoteliers and locals who faithfully recommend our rafting trips year after year and wouldn’t consider anyone else.
Who will be my guide?
Our staff are truly the key to our past and future success. (Thanks to all of you out there!) Our guiding and driving team are MPHIA Certified (Mountain Parks Heritage Interpretation Assn.) so they know their stuff when it comes to area information! The team consists of men and women who possess a wealth of experience from numerous years of rafting and leading a variety of outdoor pursuits around the world. Check out these stats. Combined, we have professionally guided rafts on nearly every continent, 19 countries, 106 rivers…and enough river miles to go TWICE around the world at the equator! That’s a lot of guiding and risk management experience for you to benefit from, don’t you think? We generally require a minimum of three to five seasons of prior rafting experience before we see if new guides are up to our standards. Our guests constantly comment that they love our guide’s enthusiasm and cheerfulness for what they do, and the professionalism with which they do it. We love rivers and rafting and we are in business to share that passion with you and others like you.
Of course, all of our guides meet or exceed industry standards and we have on-going in-house training and safety meetings throughout the season to constantly maintain and improve our skills and our Risk Management procedures.
Do we paddle or hang on?
You choose! If you prefer to assist your guide by paddling, that’s great. If you would feel more secure by simply holding on to the safety lines positioned around the raft, perfect. We encourage you to participate at a level that is comfortable to YOU! (“All-paddle” trips can easily be arranged if that is your preference, so just ask!)
How many people per raft?
We choose to carry just 8 guests per raft, plus your guide, rather than pack people in rafts as we see others do. We will sometimes go to 9 passengers if it is a group that would like to stay together, or on our Gentle trip where we often have youths. Our rafts are rated for up to 12 people.
QUESTIONS ABOUT RAFTING EQUIPMENT
What gear will you provide for me?
Warmth, comfort and security…that’s what you want! You’ll receive quality wetsuits, neoprene booties and gloves, warm fleece pullovers, sprayjackets all included in the price, and, of course, government approved lifejackets and helmets. Our gear is cleaned and DRIED daily, replaced or upgraded frequently.
What do I bring?
Not much, reallly! We’ll take care of most of it as part of the price you pay. Just bring your swimsuit (having it on ahead of time is helpful), dress appropriately for the day and bring a towel. You may want to purchase some souvenirs or photos, so plan for that.
Where to we change?
Our RiverBase Daylodge was purpose built for our rafting trips with REAL change rooms and washrooms. Your personal items remain dry and secure while you are having a good time on the river. You’ll never have to change in the bushes, alongside the river, or under tarps, that’s for sure!
I tend to get cold easily!
Our guests who are “thermally challenged” find that the gear works extremely well to keep them warm, but we won’t kid you…the mountain water is refreshing! That’s why we work very hard to keep you warm and inside the raft!
Can we buy pictures?
Yes. We offer “on the spot” digital photo service…we want you to have the bragging rights for your friends, family and workmates who didn’t come with you!
Can we take cameras?
You should leave ‘em behind and not risk getting your camera ruined on the river. You can take some “before and after” photos off the river. If it’s waterproof? Then certainly bring it along! We also have GoPro HD video cameras, complete with SD cards, available for rent at our “RiversEdge” gift shop.
RAFTING SAFETY QUESTIONS
I’m not a strong swimmer, or can’t swim…should I go?
Swimming ability is recommended and good health is required. It is your choice to come if you are a weak or non-swimmer and we have many each year.
Will I fall out?
While with an adventure activity such as rafting, there is always a chance that you may. Here’s what we do to minimize that risk.
First, you can hang on to our safety lines positioned around the raft. Unlike others, we use a guiding system so that our guests can securely hold on and “get down” when the guide feels it’s necessary, while the guide maintains control to still steer the raft. (It’s technically called a “centre-mount oar rig”…we’ve found it’s the best …two oars are better than just one paddle) Our guests can still paddle (four on every raft), but they don’t have to when we get to the big rapids…that’s the difference…and that’s when people typically may fall out of the raft.
Second, our safety briefings and demonstrations are clear, concise and thorough…we don’t rush through this just to get you on the river. We want you to be properly prepared.
Why do you have minimum ages or weights (or both) for your trips?
Weight minimums are dictated by the manufacturers of our lifejackets for use in whitewater. Age minimums are either the industry standard of care or from our many years of experience and tens of thousands who have been rafting with us.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MEALS ON YOUR TRIP
Half day trips: (Whitewater Exciter and Gentle trips)
At the conclusion of the trip, enjoy tasty bakery treats, fresh fruit served with fresh brewed coffee, tea, hot chocolate or juice.
Full day trip: (The Tradition trip and Maximum Horse Power ($15 option) trips)
A delicious lunch is served at the conclusion of The Tradition trip back at our comfortable RiverBase once you are dry and back into your warm clothes.
Choose from a succulent marinated chicken breast, wild salmom filet or vegetarian burger option, barbecued and served with fresh baked french bread, assorted salads, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, fresh fruit and hot and cold beverages.
You’ll enjoy lunch ($15 option) prior to going on the water on the Maximum Horse Power trip and light refreshments at trip’s conclusion.
AND FINALLY MISCELLANEOUS RAFTING QUESTIONS…
What if it rains?
Actually, rafting in the rain can be a lot of fun…you are going to get wet anyway! Our trips run, rain or shine.
What if I need to cancel my trip?
Sometimes your plans may change or unavoidable situations arise that necessitate having to cancel or change your trip plans…we understand that. We provide you with a generous 48 hour cancellation policy for individual bookings, and 7 days for groups of 8 or more.
However, please understand that once your trip is booked we reserve your space, assign staff and resources to ensure your trip runs smoothly. Since few of these costs are recoverable at the last minute, cancellations inside of 48 hours (7 days for groups of 8 or more) of your scheduled trip departure are non-refundable and you will be fully charged.
In the unlikely event that Wild Water must cancel a trip, full refunds or alternate dates will be given.
Getting Here
WILD WATER ADVENTURES, RIVERBASE
GOLDEN, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Use this map if you are meeting for a rafting trip with Wild Water. This map will get you to Wild Water’s RiverBase on the Kicking Horse River.
WILD WATER ADVENTURES, OFFICE
LAKE LOUISE, ALBERTA
Use this map if you are meeting at Wild Water’s head sales office in Lake Louise…THIS IS NOT WHERE OUR RIVERTRIPS DEPART FROM! Please refer to the RiverBase map above to get to the meeting place for your rafting trips.
DIRECTIONS TO WILD WATER ADVENTURES RIVERBASE & BRITISH COLUMBIA / ALBERTA CANADA AREA MAP
 Download PDF (3.8 MB) |
. . . FROM THE EAST. (LAKE LOUISE, BANFF, CALGARY.)
- Drive west on TransCanada Highway 1.
- From Lake Louise you will pass by the town of Field on your left (approx. 15 – 20 minutes & 26km or 16mi).
- Approximately 20 – 25 minutes further on from Field (about 28km or 17mi), on your left, you will pass the Yoho National Park entry gates for eastbound traffic marked by 3 flags and a small wooden kiosk.
- Look for large billboards on the left hand side of the highway and blue and white highway signs on your right. You will exit the highway by turning right and looping back through a tunnel under the highway.
Turn right at the stop sign. Go approx. 100 to 200 yards/metres. Turn left into our driveway. (Large brown building, green roof.) Let the fun begin!
. . . AND FROM THE WEST. (GOLDEN, REVELSTOKE.)
- You will drive east on TransCanada Highway 1.
- You will pass through the town of Golden.
- We are approximately 25kms or 15mi from the town of Golden. Turn right on Beaverfoot Road then IMMEDIATELY turn right into our driveway. Look for the blue and white signs for “Wild Water Adventures RiverBase”. (It is a large brown building with green roof, visable from the highway.)
Rafting Lingo
WHITEWATER RAFTING CLASS LEVELS & DESCRIPTIONS
Despite what Hollywood would like to have you believe, rivers are not all like the movie The River Wild! In reality, each river varies in the number and intensity of rapids. Between rapids, there is often plenty of opportunity to relax, view the scenery, and enjoy the information about the area that your guide will share with you, or take photos.
The International Scale of River Difficulty that rates individual rapids from class I (easy) to class VI (nearly impossible) is used in all our river descriptions. A rapid may vary in terms of time from just a few seconds to 20 seconds or more. Below you’ll find whitewater rapid class descriptions that translate the rafting class levels into layman’s terms.
CLASS I RAPID
“Wild Water definition: Very relaxing.”
Gentle, moving water. Very small waves requiring little or no maneuvering.
CLASS II RAPID
“Wild Water definition: You may get splashed.”
Regular waves, easy to see, may reach 3 to 4 feet in height. Avoiding rocks, river bends or other obstacles may require simple maneuvering.
CLASS III RAPID
“Wild Water definition: You will get wet!”
Large, continuous series or sets of waves, some in excess of 6 feet. “Holes” or “hydraulics” may be present, and can be run or avoided. Small drops, ledges or waterfalls may be present. Scouting the rapids is suggested for all but the most experienced of river persons.
CLASS IV RAPID
“Wild Water definition: You’ll get soaked
Confused and erratic waves or holes. Large obstructions need to be avoided in what are referred to as “must moves.” Risk of injury if swimming without benefit of a raft! Very difficult and scouting is required.
CLASS V RAPID
“Wild Water definition: Adrenaline junkies only!”
For most people, class V goes off the “fun” scale and enters the “kinda scary” scale! Very challenging for even the most experienced river persons. High risk of capsize or injury. Limit of navigation and scouting is essential.
CLASS VI RAPID
“Wild Water definition: Niagara Falls in a barrel!”
Virtually non-navigable, or navigable only at particularly favorable river levels.
REMEMBER! This scale is subjective. Rapids can change in difficulty seasonally and as quickly as overnight! This scale is meant only as a guideline for how easy or difficult a rapid, river or river trip may be. It is best to speak with one of our knowledgeable reservationists to find out what the river level may be like at the time when you would like to raft with us, and assist you is choosing the best trip.
