The vast wilderness for which Canada is famous revolves around the river. Across the great Canadian landscape, ever-shifting ribbons of water carve out valleys and meander across plains. Mighty rivers, such as the St. Lawrence, Mackenzie and Fraser, define our country’s regions and shape a character that is uniquely Canadian. It is lifeblood, carrying and delivering nutrients, nourishment and life throughout the heart of any habitat while also providing some of the best rafting in Canada.
Rivers, like people, have character and personality; traits that are particular, or peculiar. One river may be gentle and mild, another tough and temperamental. No two rivers, or sections of river, are alike. Each is individual and exceptional and worthy of exploration.
We here at Wild Water Adventures offer the biggest white water rafting near Banff. What we love best is to gear up for waves, rapids and at times, unforgiving holes. The bigger the wave, the better. Other outfitters think the same way, too. From our perspective, here are some of the best rivers for rafting in Canada.
- Ottawa River
- Kicking Horse River
- Chilcotin River
- Jacques-Cartier River
- Tatshenshini River
1. Ottawa River
Running alongside the nation’s capital, the Ottawa River offers one of the best whitewater runs east of the Rocky Mountains. Wilderness Tours has been around for over 40 years and definitely knows how to provide a top-notch, warm river experience. Did we mention that no wetsuits are required for rafting the Ottawa? Wild Water Adventures’ very own Ted Bilton started his guiding career on the Ottawa River. That, in itself, says tons.
2. Kicking Horse River
The Kicking Horse River offers a thrilling and unparalleled whitewater rafting experience, making it the best in Canada. Its challenging rapids, ranging from Class II to Class IV, provide an adrenaline-pumping adventure suitable for both novice and experienced rafters. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, rafters navigate through canyons and past towering cliffs. The river’s dynamic flow and pristine waters create the perfect setting for an unforgettable whitewater rafting journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
From melting snow and glacial ice near the Continental Divide, the Kicking Horse River drops a whopping 2,600 feet over its 50-mile course. That means a drop of 52 feet for every mile of distance. Just another reason why Wild Water Adventures rafts the Kicking Horse … because it has the best Canadian Rockies rafting!
3. Chilcotin River
Rafting on the Chilcotin River is an adventure like no other, set against the dramatic backdrop of British Columbia’s central interior. This river, with its striking turquoise waters, offers a unique rafting experience through a landscape that combines lush forests with stunning desert scenery. Big Canyon Rafting expertly navigates the Chilcotin, ensuring that rafters experience the best of its exhilarating rapids and serene stretches. The journey down the river reveals a diverse array of wildlife and geological formations, making it a feast for the eyes and an adrenaline rush for the soul. Each bend in the river brings new surprises and breathtaking views, solidifying the Chilcotin River as a must-visit destination for whitewater enthusiasts.
4. Jacques-Cartier River
Rafting on the Jacques-Cartier River offers an exhilarating adventure in the heart of Quebec’s stunning wilderness. This river, renowned for its thrilling Class III to Class IV rapids, promises an action-packed day trip that’s ‘as sweet as maple syrup.’ Jacques-Cartier Rafting provides expertly guided half-day excursions, ensuring rafters experience the best of what the river has to offer. As you navigate the surging waters, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and the breathtaking scenery of Jacques-Cartier National Park. The combination of exciting rapids and the serene beauty of the landscape makes the Jacques-Cartier River a top destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience in eastern Canada.
5. Tatshenshini River
While fast and furious white water day trips are the focus here at Wild Water Adventures, one can never underestimate the power of a multi-day wilderness rafting expedition. It is hard to rival 12 days in the Canadian wilderness, far away from hustle, bustle, and noise. Without a doubt, some of the best multi-day rafting in Canada is with Canadian River Expeditions / Nahanni Expeditions. My rafting career, after all, began with CRE many years ago. Their 12-day Tatshenshini trip takes the cake.
Wondering where you should raft? Whether rafting for one day or 12, the fine art of river travel is yours to experience. Call us at 1-888-647-6444 to experience for yourself the true ’kick’ of the Kicking Horse River with Wild Water Adventures.
See You On The River!
Author: Deborah Wade
