Exceptional outdoor activities exploring the beautiful Elk River or Bull River with professional, knowledgeable and fun river guides.
There is always great rafting to be found with Canyon Raft Company throughout the spring and summer. The Fernie area is blessed with two great rivers that Canyon Raft Company can offer you, the Elk River Canyon and the Bull River. Choose from a big whitewater trip, stand-up paddleboarding or a gentle scenic float with lots of opportunity to see nature and local wildlife. See below for details and pricing.
WHITE WATER RAFTING FULL DAY TOURS
Full Day trips on the Elk & Bull Rivers. Pick up at Fernie Alpine Resort, Parking Lot #1 at 10:00 am
(alternative pick up in Elko across from the Hill Top gas station and Kal Tire at 10:30 am - ideal for anyone camping at Lake Koocanusa.)
Trips include:
Full Day Whitewater Tour Prices
THE ELK RIVER
Our most popular run no matter what the water levels – from May to September the Lower Elk delivers! The Elk is a large volume class IV river that has cut deep into the rock exposing high walls of unique geology. Experience exciting rapids, dramatic wilderness canyon scenery, cliff jumping, big game animals and birds of prey. There are no roads or trails along this stretch of river - the only way to experience it is by boat.
May and June bring the spring snowmelt and high water creating the biggest waves and most powerful rapids. Early July is a great time with lots of water still flowing, but warmer weather prevailing. Later in July and August water levels are at their friendliest, a great time for first time rafters and families with keen children eight years old and older who love water.
THE BULL RIVER
The Bull River is a classic small volume mountain river steeped in history. This spring trip offered in May and June delivers all the thrills of great river running. The excitement builds progressively with each set of rapids to the climax in the lower canyon – an incredible crescendo of whitewater with rapids called “Bubbulicious” “Sandwich Maker” and “Toilet bowl”. The Lower Bull Canyon is one of the most sustained stretches of class IV water in the area
SCENIC RIVER MILD FLOAT TOURS
Gentle, relaxing floats on the Upper Elk River through the glacier-carved valley with unique views of the Rocky Mountains. A raft trip that would make Huck Finn proud! Take in the spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery from your unique vantage point as you drift by and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the Elk Valley. This trip is great for people of all ages more interested in a gentle float than getting wet.
Don’t miss the best day of your summer!
Trips include:
River Mild Float Prices:
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING
The latest activity to take Fernie by storm! Stand-up paddleboards are a great way to explore the local rivers and lakes. Join the experienced paddle guides at Canyon Raft for a new experience. Our trained professional guides will progress your SUP skills in our customized tours. Start at the lake, learn the basics and explore. Feeling more adventurous? We can take you down the river for a little more excitement.
Trips Include:
SUP Price: $99 per person + 5% GST
ABOUT CANYON RAFT COMPANY
Incorporated in 1995; owned and operated by Blair Craig and Lynn Muller. We have been running the Elk and Bull rivers ever since, and they remain just as wild and remote feeling today as before. Rafting is a great sport to participate in with family, friends or any sort of group. Everyone works together equally, with each raft controlled by an experienced river guide. Participants have the opportunity to paddle, and a great deal of accomplishment is felt when the team works together and has a good line through the rapids.
No matter what section of river - the staff and our professional approach are what really set Canyon Raft Company apart. Most of the staff have been with the company for many years and know the river and its history intimately. We enjoy sharing the river experience with our clients, and feel privileged to be out on the river every day. People love our professional, fun and interpretive approach to river running!