Heading from Kamloops to Calgary on a road trip, you’ll find the TransCanada Highway. This is our country’s #1 roadway, connecting the Atlantic coast with the Pacific. Any Canadian road-trip may just include some small portion of this highway, as travelers journey between points of interest and desired destinations.
It is possible to drive the entire stretch between these two cities in one fell swoop. The distance is a little over 600 kilometers. Travelers can have breakfast in Kamloops and dinner in Calgary, or vice versa (just remember the one-hour time difference!). But to truly enjoy the magnificent landscapes and stops along the way, we suggest taking your time. Why not make a holiday out of it? There is so much to see and do along this ribbon of highway, with no shortage of places to get out of the vehicle and stretch your legs.
- Kamloops, British Colombia
- Revelstoke, British Columbia
- Golden, British Columbia
- Yoho, Banff, Jasper and Kootenay National Parks
- Canmore, Alberta
- Calgary, Alberta
One small bonus is that whether driving eastbound or westbound along Highway #1 this summer, enthusiastic travelers will pass right by Wild Water Adventure’s doorstep! Let’s take a look at some of the options to enjoy during your next BC – Alberta road trip.
Kamloops, British Columbia
Welcome to the ‘Loops, one of the main hubs of activity in the central interior region of British Columbia. Not only is Kamloops a large population centre with all the usual amenities but it is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and desert-like wilderness as well. The possibilities to explore are endless and entice adventurers of all types.
Revelstoke, British Columbia
Back in the mountains, Revelstoke (or, Revvie to locals) is surrounded by big peaks. It is, after all, home to Revelstoke Mountain Resort and an undeniable hub for backcountry skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. Arrive early in the morning and grab a coffee and fresh-baked croissant at La Baguette. The baked goods are delicious!
The Illecillewaet River is where it’s at when it comes to rafting in Revelstoke. Rafters bounce and splash downstream on a great fun-filled moderate whitewater run. Go early in the season for the biggest wave action in the area.
Golden, British Columbia
East of Revelstoke, on the other side of the Purcell Mountain range, is the charming town of Golden. Here the waters from the Kicking Horse River join the mighty Columbia and flow together into the Pacific Ocean. Golden is yet another hub for year-round outdoor adventure. Between the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, multitude of bike trails, high velocity rivers and a grand selection of internationally-inspired restaurants (not to mention local breweries!), Golden has it all. 20 minutes east of Golden, on the TransCanada Highway, is Wild Water Adventures’ RiverBase, the hub for all our Kicking Horse white water rafting adventures. Join us for half-day trips, full-length trips with BBQ lunch or double runs of the BIG whitewater section. Did we mention this is the biggest whitewater in the Rockies with Class 4+ waves during high water season in June? Combine river rafting with other popular activities in the area by signing up for one of our Adventure Packages.
Yoho, Banff, Jasper and Kootenay National Parks
Our RiverBase is on the cusp of four different national parks. Yes, 4! Possibilities abound for even more adventures within Canada’s renowned Rocky Mountain parks. Combine rafting on the Kicking Horse River with Lake Louise Gondola. ‘Up The Mountain Down The River’ includes a half-day of whitewater rafting and lift tickets to Lake Louise Summer Gondola. The package also includes individual Food & Beverage gift cards so to enjoy a spot of lunch while admiring the views. We may be partial, but white water rafting near Banff is another great option for outdoor fun!
For more ideas of what to do in the area, check out Banff Lake Louise Tourism.
Canmore, Alberta
Canmore is home to Yamnuska Mountain Adventures, the go-to outfit for anything mountain-related. Rock-climbing, hiking, mountain climbing, avalanche training, ice climbing … You name it, they offer it in world-class style! Programs are great for the entire family.
Calgary, Alberta
Home of the world-famous Stampede, Calgary is fast becoming a popular world destination. Not only is it the perfect location from which to explore the Rocky Mountains but the prairies to the east as well. Start planning your holiday by discovering all holiday possibilities at Calgary Tourism.
Whether driving from the east or from the west, any road trip combining the best of Alberta and British Columbia must include an exhilarating river rafting experience on the Kicking Horse River.
Ready to embark on your Kamloops to Calgary road trip? Maybe Secure your next adventure to go white water rafting in Banff? Browse our Golden white water rafting trips, choose the one for you, and book online or call 1-888-647-6444 to book!
See You on the River!
Author: Deborah Wade
