Whitewater Rafting & Water Activities
Kananaskis, Canmore & Banff rafting and water adventures guide
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Wild Water Adventures -
Hydra River Guides -
Banff Canoe Club
Did you Know?
Kananaskis has some world class paddling and river surfing at the Canoe Meadows’ whitewater facility, and the Canmore/Banff area is perfect for SUP and relaxing floats with spots like Quarry Lake and the Canmore reservoir.
The rivers of the Rockies can deliver adrenaline pumping, heart-racing trips, scenic tranquility or both, from Class 4 rapids to gentle paddling and floats.
Being on the water is one of the best ways to experience Kananaskis and surrounding areas. Learn the facts and features of rivers near Kananaskis and Canmore through to Banff and Golden.
Our local rivers have some of the finest whitewater rafting around, are popular with kayakers and river surfers, and also have calmer sections for family floats, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). There are some beautiful nearby lakes for those who want to start and finish in the same place.
Local whitewater rafting companies offer exhilarating guided experiences for all skill levels on the Kananaskis River, Horseshoe Canyon on the Bow River, Elbow River, Red Deer River and Kicking Horse River.
Many trips have options for lunch, cliff jumping, swimming and photos of your trip. Or try a self-guided canoe and kayak exploration on the Bow River or Barrier Lake. Relax with a gentle paddle on Vermillion Lakes, with picture postcard views of Mt Rundle.
Local Rafting and Water Sports Companies
Experience the best whitewater rafting trips near Kananaskis, Canmore/Banff from family floats to adrenaline pumping rafting trips. Fun and excitement create memories and bring us together – there’s nothing better than a great day out with friends and family.
The following companies offer rafting adventures near Canmore & Kananaskis, Banff and Kicking Horse River, departing from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise or Golden. Visit their website for information on available tours.
Canoeing on the Bow River is the quintessential Canadian activity; a peaceful way to explore Banff National Park. Rent a canoe or kayak from the Banff Canoe Club, located 5 minutes from downtown Banff. Paddlers can explore a gentle leg of the Bow River or follow forty mile creek into Vermillion Lakes. Both routes offer stunning views and opportunities for spotting wildlife. Rentals include paddles, life jackets, bailing bucket, information tablet about the river and basic dry land instruction. We even do offsite canoe, kayak & stand up paddle board rentals!
Banff Canoe Docks – corner of Wolf Street and Bow Ave, Banff, Banff
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The Kicking Horse River is famous for whitewater rafting, packed with mighty rapids and plenty of thrills. Hydra River Guides has been introducing guests to the “kicks” of whitewater rafting since 1986! With 4 distinctive trips on offer, from our Mild and Classic trips to our thrilling Ultimate and Fast Blast adventures, the Kicking Horse River has something for everyone. Tours include river gear, BBQ lunch and optional transportation.
211 Bear St, Banff, Alberta
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Experience the biggest whitewater in the Rockies! Wild Water Adventures offers 'Mild To Wild' whitewater rafting options on the famous Kicking Horse River. Choose between playful and splashy waves on the Gentle (a perfect introduction to whitewater rafting); BIG waves on the Whitewater Exciter; or, the full-length Tradition for 2-trips-in-1, plus gourmet BBQ lunch afterwards! All trips depart from our River Base (2750 Beaverfoot Road, near Golden BC). Minimum age and weight criteria for all trips. 2024 SEASON KICKS OFF ON SATURDAY, MAY 18TH!
RiverBase: 2750 Beaverfoot Road, near Golden, BC
Sales Desk: Chateau Lake Louise, Lake Louise AB
Lake Louise, Alberta
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