"Kootenay" Is paddler slang for "Awesome".
Everyone is familiar with the Rocky Mountains in Canada, but did you know they are only one of four major mountain ranges in the Kootenay Rockies region? Between the Purcell, Monashee, Selkirk, and western Rocky Mountains, are a variety of valleys boasting innumerable lakes and rivers offering every type of paddling experience. Its headwaters of the mighty Columbia River are located in the area of BC, near Fairmont Hot Springs, and flow north past Golden before veering south and running all the way to the Pacific Ocean in Oregon. Whether your preference is paddling big rivers or kayak fishing on lakes for Kokanee salmon, the Kootenay Rockies region is guaranteed to float your boat.
Participating communities from Kootenay Rockies
Explore pockets of this region by way of specific communities. Get info on the waterways in or near them and meet local paddling professionals.
Castlegar
Discover the little city at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia rivers. And try the borscht.
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Fernie
The Elk River snakes its way past this community and the Bull River flows nearby. As their names suggest, the paddling here is wild.
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Golden
Golden is perfectly named because the paddling experiences here are worth their weight in, well, you know.
ExploreExplore more paddling opportunities in the area.
Arrow Lakes
The Arrow Lakes offer 230 kilometres of paddling opportunity in a beautiful valley that extends from Revelstoke to Castlegar.
ExploreMeet the specialists Kootenay Rockies
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
I want to go
on a(n)
Alpine Rafting
Alpine Rafting is located in Golden BC on the famous and beautiful Kicking Horse River.
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Apex Rafting
30+ years of Rafting in Revelstoke! Consistent Ownership since Day 1, fantastic rafting and a commitment to superior customer service keeps Apex Rafting top rated on Google, Facebook and Trip Advisor. 26 km of rafting with up to Class 3+ Rapids(Class 4 at high flows) Price also includes Rafting Trip Photos and fresh fruit & pastries. Hot Tub/Sauna available.
Canyon Raft Company
Located in Fernie BC the Canyon Raft Company offers anything from scenic floats to whitewater rafting, making it suitable for all.
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Columbia Wetlands Outpost
Explore the stunning Columbia Wetlands with self-guided rentals and unique accommodations for special occasions.
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Edge of the World
Edge of the World offers a wide range of snowboarding, skateboarding, paddleboarding, streetwear, and goods in Fernie, BC.
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Endless Adventure
Endless Adventures offers a variety of different watersports options for everyone to try out.
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Float Golden
Float Your Way offers affordable paddle board rentals in Golden with door-to-door delivery. Choose your adventure and book online now!
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GearHub Sports
Discover quality paddle gear and apparel at GearHub. Find everything you need for your next adventure.
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Glacier Raft Company
Go whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River with Goldens original rafting company, Glacier Raft Co.
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Golden Paddle
Golden Paddle provides many different watersports rentals for their guests.
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Golden River Adventures
At Golden River Adventures try something new with their inflatable kayak rentals and create your own adventure.
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Hydra River Guides
Hydra River Guides offers many different activities, whether it’s a fast paced rafting trip or a gentle canoe ride they have it all.
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Just Liquid Sports
Explore a wide range of outdoor gear, from apparel to safety and rescue equipment.
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Kicking Horse Paddle Festival
The Kicking Horse Paddle Festival is an annual event that recognizes and appreciates the beauty of the Kicking Horse River and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
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Kootenay Raft Co Rafting and Rentals
Kootenay Raft Co. offers thrilling rafting adventures in the Kootenays. Family-friendly trips, rentals, and custom group outings available.
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Kootenay River Runners
Kootenay River Runners is perfect for adventurous visitors to experience guided whitewater rafting trips down the mighty Kicking Horse River.
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Kootenay River Runners: Golden
Kootenay River Runners in Golden BC explores the mighty Kicking Horse River.
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Outdoor Recreation Council of BC
ORCBC advocates for responsible outdoor recreation in BC, promoting access to nature for all.
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Roam Adventures
Explore the rivers and experience beautiful mountain views while adventuring with Roam Adventures.
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Scotties Marina
Scotties Marina offers a scenic waterfront vacation rental suite, moorage, fuel, fishing derby, and kayak/paddle board rentals on the pristine Lower Arrow Lake.
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Tunnel49
Tunnel49 is a rafting company that offers a variety of different tours including calmer trips or more adventurous ones.
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Wet n Wild Adventures
Experience thrilling rafting trips down the Kicking Horse River with Wet n Wild Adventures.
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Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures: Revelstoke
Become a "River Pirate" on a whitewater rafting tour with Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures.
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Wild Water Adventures
Wild Water Adventures is known to be the best organized whitewater rafting trips near Banff.
Learn MoreLearn more about paddling in Kootenay Rockies
The Best Whitewater Rafting in British Columbia
The Kicking Horse is only one of many whitewater experiences that make British Columbia one of the best rafting destinations in the world.
