Rafting on the Kicking Horse River in Golden: Class 1–4+ Rapids
You pick the rapids that match your comfort, from gentle to intense.
Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River in Golden, British Columbia, with a professional guide, all gear provided, and shuttle transport to and from the river. The river offers class 1–4+ rapids, so you can choose a half-day or full-day trip suited to your experience level. Lunch is included on the full-day and family options. Children from age 7 are welcome; the minimum age for the more intense runs is 12.
The Experience
The Kicking Horse River has been the home of this outfitter since 1982, and it runs class 1–4+ rapids depending on which section you raft. A half-day trip takes about 5 hours total, including the shuttle to the put-in and back to town. The full-day option covers more water and includes a BBQ lunch on the riverbank, so you're on the water longer and see more of the canyon. A professional guide leads every trip, reads the current, and handles the technical calls while you paddle. All gear — raft, paddle, helmet, life jacket — comes with you; you just bring a swimsuit and a towel.
The river has options for different comfort levels. The Gentle Family Rafting trip is designed for younger kids and calmer water, so a 7-year-old can go. The Half Day Express and Full Day Discovery trips tackle bigger rapids and ask more from your paddle arm, and the minimum age is 12. The shuttle picks you up from town, drives you to the river, and brings you back afterward, so you don't need a car or have to find parking. You choose your lunch preference when you book — hamburger, veggie burger, breaded chicken burger, or smokie — and the outfitter handles any allergies or dietary needs you flag at checkout.
One thing to know: the outfitter asks that anyone under 19 have a parent or guardian sign the waiver on the day of the trip. If you have a spinal injury, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns, this activity isn't suitable. The time zone is Mountain Time, same as Alberta, so if you're coordinating with the rest of your trip, that's the clock to use.
What’s included
- Professional raft guide leading the trip.
- all gear needed on the river (raft, paddle, helmet, life jacket).
- bus shuttle to and from the river.
- BBQ lunch on the full-day and family trips.
- local taxes.
Operated by Glacier Raft Company - Day Tours
Is this one for you?The half-day option works if you have an afternoon free and want to test the rapids without committing a full day. The full-day trip suits anyone who wants to cover more river and have time to settle into the rhythm of paddling between lunch and the final stretch.
Traveler reviews
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Top questions
What are the rapids like on the Kicking Horse River?
The Kicking Horse has class 1–4+ rapids, which means the difficulty ranges from gentle to intense. The Gentle Family Rafting trip stays on calmer water suitable for kids as young as 7. The Half Day Express and Full Day Discovery options tackle bigger rapids and are better for paddlers aged 12 and up or with some rafting experience.
How long does a rafting trip take?
A half-day trip runs about 5 hours total, including the shuttle to the river and back to town. The full-day option covers more river and includes a BBQ lunch, so you spend more time on the water.
Is lunch included, and can you accommodate dietary needs?
Lunch is included on the Full Day Discovery and Gentle Family Rafting trips. You choose your meal preference at booking — hamburger, veggie burger, breaded chicken burger, or smokie — and you can note any allergies or dietary requirements when you book so the outfitter can prepare accordingly.
Do I need to bring my own gear or arrange transport to the river?
All rafting gear comes with you — raft, paddle, helmet, and life jacket. The outfitter provides a shuttle from town to the put-in and back, so you don't need a car or have to find your own way to the river.
What's the minimum age for kids to go rafting?
Children as young as 7 can join the Gentle Family Rafting trip on calmer water. The Half Day Express and Full Day Discovery trips have a minimum age of 12. Anyone under 19 needs a parent or guardian to sign the waiver on the day of the trip.
Are there any health conditions that would prevent me from rafting?
Rafting is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health. The outfitter can discuss any specific concerns if you reach out before booking.
Rafting on the Kicking Horse River in Golden: Class 1–4+ Rapids
5h · EN
from CA$ 131 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.9769 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider
