Clearwater River Rafting: 14km Whitewater in Wells Gray Park
Four Hours on One of BC's Most Dynamic Rivers
You spend four hours paddling 14 kilometers of the Clearwater River, one of BC's most concentrated stretches of rapids and chutes. All gear and a professional guide are included; you bring fitness, a change of clothes, and shoes that won't slip off. The trip fits into a single afternoon if you're already in Wells Gray Park and want to move fast.
3h 30m
Step-by-step itinerary
Whitewater rafting on Clearwater River
- Arrive at Wells Gray Park
- Prepare for whitewater rafting
- Raft 14 km on Clearwater River
- Experience rapids and waterfalls
- Complete rafting adventure
The Experience
"You're going to feel every rapid," our guide said as we pushed off from the bank, and he wasn't exaggerating. The Clearwater River in Wells Gray Park moves fast—14 kilometers of it in four hours, which means you're not floating between the action, you're in it. Interior Whitewater has been running this stretch since 1983, and the "Ready-Set-Go" trip is built around the idea that you came here to raft, not to sit in a van. The river drains the entire Wells Gray watershed, so it's fed by the same waterfalls and chutes that make this 540,000-hectare park wild enough that UNESCO is considering it for World Heritage status.
The Clearwater River rafting trip starts with a safety briefing and gear check—helmet, life jacket, paddle—then you're in the boat and moving. The rapids come in clusters; you'll hit stretches where the water smooths out just enough to catch your breath, then the next set appears and you're bracing again. The guide reads the current and calls the strokes, but you're doing the work. Four hours of this is genuinely physical; the company recommends moderate fitness for a reason. The river is the real thing—no artificial course, no tame sections designed for Instagram. You see the park from the water, which is a different angle than most people get.
Dress matters here. Wear running shoes or strapped sandals (your feet will get wet), bring a change of clothes, and if you wear glasses, make sure they have a strap. The trip runs in all weather, so rain doesn't cancel it—it just adds to the experience. You need to be at least 12 years old and weigh a minimum of 90 pounds; kids under 18 need an adult in the boat with them. The whole thing—equipment, safety instruction, professional guide—is included in the price, so you show up ready to go.
What’s included
All necessary equipment including helmet and life jacket, safety instructions from a professional guide, and four hours of guided whitewater rafting on the Clearwater River. You provide your own appropriate clothing, footwear, and any personal items you want to bring.
Operated by Interior Whitewater Expeditions
Is this one for you?Right for anyone in Wells Gray Park who wants to pack a serious activity into a single afternoon without needing their own gear or experience—the guide handles the river, you handle the paddle.
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Top questions
How long is the Clearwater River rafting trip?
Four hours on the water, covering 14 kilometers of whitewater.
What's included in the price?
All necessary equipment, safety instructions, and a professional guide. You don't need to bring or rent anything except appropriate clothing.
What's the minimum age?
Minimum age is 12 years old and minimum weight is 90 pounds (41 kg). Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Do I need whitewater experience?
No. You need at least moderate physical fitness, but the guide handles navigation and instruction. First-timers do this trip regularly.
What should I wear?
Running shoes or strapped sandals (not flip-flops), a bathing suit under a change of clothes, and bring a towel. Glasses need a strap. The trip runs in all weather, so dress for rain if needed.
Is this trip cancelled in bad weather?
No. The trip operates in all weather conditions. You're expected to dress appropriately for rain or cold.
How far is Wells Gray Park from a town?
The park is in central British Columbia. Clearwater is the nearest town, about 30 minutes from the main park entrance.
Clearwater River Rafting: 14km Whitewater in Wells Gray Park
3h 30m
from CA$ 147 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.97363 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider
