Nestled in the heart of Yoho National Park, Golden, BC offers families an unforgettable rafting adventure on the Kicking Horse River. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the rush of Class II-III rapids, guided by experienced professionals who prioritize safety. With stunning vistas and a rejuvenating riverside lunch, this outing promises an adrenaline-filled day in nature. Whether you’re seeking an exciting escape or a memorable family activity, this Kicking Horse River rafting trip might just be the perfect fit. But there’s more to discover about this unique experience…
Key Points
- Family-friendly 1.5-hour rafting adventure down the upper Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park, suitable for children aged 4 and up.
- Swift currents with Class II-III rapids, requiring experienced river guides from Glacier Raft Company to ensure safety.
- Rafting gear, including wetsuit, boots, splash top, helmet, and PFD, provided to protect against cool river water and waves.
- Delicious riverside BBQ lunch served after the rafting trip, offering a chance to relax and share stories.
- Convenient transportation from the Glacier Raft Company base in Golden, BC to the launch site and back.
About the Rafting Trip
Embarking on a family-friendly rafting adventure, guests can expect an exhilarating 1.5-hour journey down the upper Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park.
Featuring Class II-III rapids, the trip offers a thrilling yet safe experience suitable for children aged 4 and up.
Along the way, rafters will float through the stunning landscapes of the national park, with the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the river.
The experienced river guides provide all necessary gear, including wetsuits, boots, and personal flotation devices, ensuring maximum comfort and safety throughout the excursion.
At the end of the river adventure, guests can look forward to a delicious riverside BBQ lunch, making this the perfect family outing.
River Conditions and Safety
The Kicking Horse River is a dynamic and ever-changing waterway, posing unique challenges for rafting enthusiasts. Guests can expect to encounter Class II-III rapids, which demand a certain level of skill and caution from both guides and participants.
Rafters must be prepared to navigate through swift currents, sudden drops, and unpredictable obstacles. Safety is the top priority, and all participants are required to wear proper safety gear, including helmets, life jackets, and appropriate clothing.
| River Conditions | Safety Measures |
|---|---|
| Swift Currents | Helmets |
| Class II-III Rapids | Life Jackets |
| Unpredictable Obstacles | Appropriate Clothing |
| Sudden Drops | Experienced Guides |
The experienced guides from Glacier Raft Company are well-versed in navigating the Kicking Horse River and ensuring the safety of all guests, making this an ideal adventure for families.
Gear and Clothing
Guests receive all necessary rafting gear, including a wetsuit, boots, splash top, helmet, personal flotation device (PFD), and paddle, ensuring they stay warm, safe, and equipped for the journey.
The wetsuit and boots protect against the cool river water, while the splash top shields against any waves or splashes. The helmet safeguards guests’ heads, and the PFD keeps them afloat should they fall overboard. The paddle allows them to navigate the river confidently.
This comprehensive gear package allows guests to focus on enjoying the scenic float through Yoho National Park without worrying about the elements. Experienced guides provide any needed assistance to ensure a comfortable and carefree rafting experience.
Riverside BBQ Lunch
After the exhilarating rafting journey through Yoho National Park’s scenic landscapes, participants can look forward to a riverside BBQ lunch to refuel and recharge.
The lunch is included in the rafting tour package and is served right by the river’s edge, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty of their surroundings.
The BBQ features a delicious spread of grilled meats, fresh salads, and tasty sides, catering to all appetites.
It’s the perfect way to wind down after an adrenaline-filled adventure on the Kicking Horse River. With the river as the backdrop, guests can enjoy a relaxing lunch and share stories about their unforgettable rafting experience.
Transportation and Meeting Point
Participants meet at the Glacier Raft Company base in Golden, BC before setting off on their river adventure.
From there, they’ll board a bus for the 25-minute journey to the launch site along the Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park. This convenient transportation eliminates the need for personal vehicles, allowing everyone to simply show up and enjoy the experience.
Upon arrival, the guides will provide all the necessary rafting gear, including wetsuits, boots, helmets, and life jackets. Once everyone is suited up, it’s time to hit the water for an unforgettable 1.5-hour float through the stunning scenery of Yoho National Park.
After the rafting trip, the bus will transport participants back to the Glacier Raft Company base, completing the family-friendly adventure.
Duration and Itinerary
The entire family rafting experience lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish.
Once you arrive at the Glacier Raft Company base in Golden, BC, you’ll depart by bus for the river, a 25-minute journey.
After your exhilarating 1.5-hour rafting trip down the upper Kicking Horse River, you’ll have the chance to swim in the river before enjoying a riverside BBQ lunch.
The return bus trip to the base takes around 20 minutes, completing the adventure.
The key details of the itinerary include:
- 1.5-hour rafting trip on the upper Kicking Horse River
- Option to swim in the river
- Riverside BBQ lunch
- 25-minute bus ride to the river
- 20-minute bus ride back to the base
Age and Weight Restrictions
This family rafting adventure has some age and weight restrictions for participants. Children must be at least 4 years old and weigh a minimum of 33 pounds to join the trip. Individuals under these requirements aren’t permitted on the rafting expedition for safety reasons.
The company takes the wellbeing of its guests very seriously and enforces these policies to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and secure experience. This helps maintain control of the rafts and keep all passengers safe throughout the journey.
Guests who don’t meet the age and weight criteria won’t be allowed to participate, so it’s important to plan accordingly before booking the tour.
Booking and Availability
To book the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting with Lunch, guests can contact the Glacier Raft Company directly through their website or by phone. Tour dates and availability vary by season, so it’s best to check the company’s calendar and make reservations in advance, especially during peak summer months when demand is highest.
Guests should also be prepared to provide the names, ages, and weights of all participants in their party when booking.
Tour dates and schedules are updated regularly on the company’s website. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.
Groups larger than 10 should contact the company for custom booking options. Last-minute bookings may be available, but are subject to tour capacity.
Guests should arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rafting Suitable for Non-Swimmers?
Yes, the rafting is suitable for non-swimmers. All participants wear life jackets, and the river is generally calm and family-friendly. The experienced guides also provide thorough safety instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Rafting Trip?
While some rafting tours allow bringing your own food, this one includes a riverside BBQ lunch as part of the package. Bringing extra snacks or drinks is typically permitted, but the provided lunch is part of the experience.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
There is typically no minimum group size requirement for this rafting trip. Participants can book individually or as a small group, and the company will accommodate the number of guests booked for the scheduled departure.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim?
No, participants do not need to know how to swim for this family-friendly rafting trip. The rafts are stable and guests wear life jackets for safety. As long as guests can follow the guide’s instructions, swimming ability is not required.
Are There Any Additional Fees for the Photos/Videos?
The photos and videos are available for purchase, but there are no additional mandatory fees. Customers can choose whether to buy the optional photo/video package or not, depending on their preferences and budget.
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Recap
Golden’s Kicking Horse River offers families an exhilarating rafting adventure.
The trip features stunning natural scenery, experienced guides, and a delicious riverside lunch.
Suitable for children aged 4 and up, this 1.5-hour trip features Class II-III rapids, providing an adrenaline-filled experience in the heart of Yoho National Park.
With transportation and equipment included, it’s a convenient way to explore the region’s natural beauty.