Riding the rapids on the Kicking Horse River
Thrilling raft ride on the Kicking Horse River
The Kicking Horse Classic trip

Ride the Rapids

Raft the Kicking Horse River

From $125

Adventure Details

Activity Level
Moderate / Active
Duration
1.5-3 hrs
Departure
9:15am, 1:00pm, 3:45pm
Restriction
Min 12yrs/90lbs
Location
1.25 drive

This is the Kicking Horse River, the best whitewater rafting experience in the Canadian Rockies. We are proud to introduce you to the river we call home. No matter what kind of adventurer you are, we've got you covered. Choose from the Kicking Horse Classic or Last Waltz.

Starting at our private river base, this unforgettable journey begins calmly, allowing rafters to familiarize themselves with the raft, paddles and guide’s commands. Find out fun facts about the river as you take in the views of the serene upper canyon. Then, it’s onto the mighty rapids that the Kicking Horse is famous for. As the canyon narrows, the waves build, drenching rafters in continuous rapids such as Shot Gun, Man Eater and Roller Coaster. It’s a popular whitewater journey that combines a mix of class 1-4 rapids, finishing 20 km downstream.

Finish off smiling ear to ear, having just earned your bragging rights; then board the shuttle back to the Hydra River Base. Rinse off in beach style showers and get changed. Swap stories with your fellow rafters about who was holding on (even when they said they weren’t), what was your favourite rapid and who simply got drenched. This is the most popular trip on the river. Hands down

Book your Adventure

Kicking Horse Classic AM Trip

Adult (12+): $125

Book a Boat AM Trip

Per Boat (12+): $875

Kicking Horse Classic PM Trip

Adult (12+): $135

Book a Boat PM Trip

Per Boat (12+): $945

Last Waltz

Adult (12+): $109
Getting ready to hit the rapids of the Kicking Horse River
Buckling up the life jacket ready to hit the rapids
Loading in to the boats on the Kicking Horse Classic trip
Following the raft guide to the river
The Hydra River Base in Golden, BC
The Hydra shuttle bus
  • Trips depart from the Hydra River Base in Golden, BC. No transport available. All guests must self drive to river base. The Kicking Horse River is located 1.25 hours west of Banff. Directions will be provided upon booking. No refunds for late arrivals who miss the trip.
  • All trips include qualified guides, river gear (wetsuit, fleece, spray jacket, life jacket, helmet & booties)
  • Rafters must be a minimum of 12 years of age and 90lbs to participate (no exceptions). If anyone is under 12 or 90lbs, they may be more suited to the Family Whitewater.
  • No previous rafting experience is required 
  • Please bring a swimsuit and towel. Some rafters like to come with your swimsuit already on (under your clothing). If so, please remember to bring underwear for after your trip. Change rooms are available if you need them but limited. 
  • All participants are required to sign a waiver prior to rafting. If you would like to review the waiver, click here
  • Please note that the Kicking Horse is a glacier fed river and water levels fluctuate. As the season progresses, the rapids can change
  • Total tour duration is approximately 3 hours (including safety briefing and gear up time)
  • No food or drink is served on this tour. There are snacks available for purchase.

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