Nestled amidst the grandeur of Yoho National Park, the Kicking Horse River in Golden, BC, offers families an unforgettable rafting adventure. Set out on a 14 km float through the serene Upper Canyon, where occasional rapids add a touch of excitement. With expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort, you’ll savor a delicious riverside BBQ lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time rafter, this experience promises to create lasting memories in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. But the true thrill lies in what’s yet to be discovered…
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Lunch Experiences In British Columbia.
Key Points
- Enjoy a 4-hour, 14 km rafting adventure on the calm Upper Canyon of the Kicking Horse River in Golden, British Columbia’s Yoho National Park.
- The family-friendly rafting experience, suitable for ages 4 and up, features stunning mountain scenery and a delicious riverside BBQ lunch.
- Expert river guides ensure a safe and thrilling journey with occasional rapids, creating an engaging experience for first-time and experienced rafters.
- The tour includes necessary rafting equipment, transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, making it an accessible and convenient option.
- With a strong customer rating of 4.9/5, the Kicking Horse River rafting adventure is an excellent choice for creating lasting memories with family.
Location and Duration
The Kicking Horse River rafting experience takes place in the picturesque town of Golden, British Columbia, nestled within the stunning Yoho National Park.
This family-friendly adventure lasts for 4 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the breathtaking scenery along the 14 km float down the river’s calm Upper Canyon.
Suitable for adventurers aged 4 and up, this rafting trip promises an unforgettable journey through pristine forests and majestic mountains.
Whether you’re a first-time rafter or an experienced thrill-seeker, the Kicking Horse River offers the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for a day of outdoor exploration in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
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Rafting Type and River Section
This family-friendly rafting adventure takes place on the Kicking Horse River’s calm Upper Canyon, offering a 14 km float that’s suitable for adventurers aged 4 and up.
Though not as intense as the river’s lower sections, the Upper Canyon still provides an engaging and exhilarating experience, with occasional rapids and breathtaking scenery surrounding the rafters.
Rafters will pass through Yoho National Park, with stunning views of forests and mountains.
The float is perfect for those seeking a thrilling yet family-friendly activity, providing the opportunity to admire the beautiful natural surroundings while enjoying a fun and safe adventure on the water.
Starting Point and Schedule
Rafting participants gather at the starting point of 1509 Lafontaine Rd in Golden, where they receive a safety briefing before embarking on a 25-minute bus ride to the river.
Once on the Kicking Horse River, they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour rafting adventure through the calm Upper Canyon, taking in the beautiful views of Yoho National Park.
After the rafting, they’ll stop for a 45-minute riverside BBQ lunch featuring various snacks and drinks.
Highlights of the Experience
After the relaxing bus ride, participants can look forward to several highlights that make this rafting adventure truly memorable.
One of the standout moments is the stop at a scenic waterfall, where they’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim and capture breathtaking photos.
Plus, the river guides are known for their expertise, ensuring a safe and exciting journey filled with thrilling rapids.
Between the stunning Yoho National Park scenery and the chance to indulge in a delicious riverside BBQ lunch, this rafting experience offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and relaxation.
Families and first-time rafters alike are sure to leave with lasting memories of their time on the Kicking Horse River.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPricing and Cancellation Policy
The pricing for this family-friendly rafting experience starts from $K1,845 per person.
Customers have the option to reserve their spot and pay later, which provides flexibility.
The cancellation policy is also quite generous, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This ensures that if plans change, you won’t be penalized.
The tour operates rain or shine, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and thrilling rapids regardless of the weather.
With a strong 4.9/5 customer rating based on 35 reviews, this rafting adventure on the Kicking Horse River comes highly recommended for both first-time rafters and experienced adventurers alike.
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Included and Excluded Items
In the Golden, BC: Kicking Horse River Family Rafting With Lunch experience, the package includes all the necessary rafting equipment, such as wetsuits, boots, splash tops, helmets, personal flotation devices, and paddles, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience on the river.
Plus, a BBQ lunch is provided, along with bus transportation to and from the river. However, the cost of photos and videos, as well as gratuities, aren’t included in the package price.
Guests are advised to bring their own swimwear and towel, and the tour operates rain or shine.
With a strong customer rating of 4.9/5 and positive reviews, this family-friendly rafting adventure is a great way to explore the scenic Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park.
What to Bring and Prohibited Items
For the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting experience, guests are advised to come prepared by bringing their swimwear and a towel.
Intoxication, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour, which operates rain or shine. This is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
The river guides will provide all the necessary rafting equipment, including wetsuits, boots, splash tops, helmets, PFDs, and paddles. Guests don’t need to worry about bringing any of these items as they’re all included in the tour package.
The tour’s priority is to create a fun, memorable, and safe adventure for families and first-time rafters on the beautiful Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park.
Weather Policy and Customer Ratings
Regardless of the weather conditions, the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting tour operates rain or shine, ensuring guests can enjoy the scenic river journey as planned.
The tour company is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, regardless of the weather.
With a customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 35 reviews, the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting tour has earned a reputation for professionalism, stunning scenery, and a strong focus on safety.
Customers have consistently praised the experienced guides, the well-organized itinerary, and the overall quality of the rafting adventure, making it an excellent choice for families and first-time rafters alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Safety Precautions Are Taken During the Rafting Trip?
The rafting company provides comprehensive safety gear, including wetsuits, boots, helmets, and life jackets. Experienced guides lead the trip and provide thorough safety briefings. Swimmers are closely monitored, and the tour is weather-dependent to ensure safe conditions.
How Experienced Are the River Guides Leading the Tours?
The river guides leading the tours are highly experienced and trained professionals. They undergo extensive safety and rescue training to ensure the utmost care and protection for all participants during the rafting adventure.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Rafting Trip?
No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the rafting trip. The tour package includes a BBQ lunch and beverages. Bringing outside food or drink is generally not allowed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Is There an Age or Weight Limit for Participants?
There’s no age limit for the rafting trip, but participants must weigh at least 40 pounds. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. The rafting is suitable for families with kids aged 4 and up.
What Should I Do if I Have Any Medical Conditions or Concerns?
If you have any medical conditions or concerns, it’s important to inform the tour operator before the rafting trip. They can advise on any precautions or accommodations needed to ensure your safety and enjoyment on the water.
Recap
The Kicking Horse River rafting adventure in Golden, BC offers families a thrilling yet safe way to experience the stunning landscapes of Yoho National Park.
With a 14 km float, occasional rapids, and a riverside BBQ lunch, this 4-hour excursion promises lasting memories in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Led by expert guides, it’s a perfect outing for first-time adventurers and seasoned rafters alike.
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