Rafting the Elk River & Canyon

Splash out on an adventure of epic proportions - the Elk River goes from mild to wild on the lower stretches, and is the perfect setting for a white water smack-down!

Two local operators - Canyon Raft Company and Tunnel49 run the gauntlet pretty much daily. We joined Canyon Raft Co. for a day of big rapids, thrill-riding and white water paddling. Read on for how it went!

The Elk River starts in Elk Lakes Provincial Park near the Continential Divide in the Rocky Mountains and continues south through Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie, then southwest until it flows into Lake Koocanusa. This freestone river is popular for all river sports, especially white water rafting, SUP, kayaking and fly fishing.

People in orange life jackets rafting on the Elk River with rocky cliffside.

The Elk Canyon looks like a movie set but we assure you - this is the real deal. The full-day guided white water trip is for ages 8 & up and starts with a hike down to the river for the official orientation before getting right into level 2-3 rapids to ease you into it as you cruise alongside big rock walls.

The first section of rapids makes everyone feel like a champion as they emerge victoriously and keen for the next one. But don't fret, there are nice mellow sections along the tour to take in the views and local wildlife.

Black bear on a rocky cliffside with sparse greenery.

Black bears, Big Horned Sheep or Mountain Goats can be one of the local wildlife inhabitants that shows up, but you are more likely to see birds of prey such as Bald Eagles and Osprey.

Rafters on a river flowing through a rocky gorge with trees on the left, under a clear blue sky.

There are no roads or trails along this stretch of river, but as a famous doctor once said..."Roads? Where we're going we don't need...roads." - Dr. Emmet Brown

The Elk River Canyon is one of epic beauty and down-right thrilling (especially in higher water season of June). Your guide will prep you as you'll be navigating through the biggest rapid on the river.

People in red life jackets and helmets navigate a white raft through turbulent water, holding yellow and blue paddles.

So...hang on and try not to loose your paddle in the "oh cra_" moment. Trust me it's so fun and gets the heart pumping.

People in orange life jackets jumping off a cliff into green water.

In between the rapid in the canyon is the "dare you to do it?" cliff jump. No pressure though; there are a few options to jump from so you can opt out of the highest point.

Six people jumping in unison by a river, wearing black wetsuits, with a forested hill in the background.

Congratulations, you made it through one of the best white water adventures in BC and, dare we say, of your life! For the experience you’ll never forget, take the full day trip on the Elk River.