Golden, BC: Kicking Horse River Family Rafting with Lunch

The Golden, BC: Kicking Horse River Family Rafting with Lunch offers an inviting way to explore British Columbia’s stunning scenery in a relaxed and safe setting. Priced at $79 per person and lasting about 4 hours, this tour is perfect for families and those who prefer calmer waters over intense whitewater. The trip is designed to be accessible for children as young as 7 years old and weighing at least 50 lbs, making it a great choice for a family outing or anyone wanting to enjoy river scenery without tackling big rapids.

This adventure takes place in the Upper Canyon of the Kicking Horse River, starting from the rafting base in Golden, BC. The tour includes all necessary rafting equipment, a riverside BBQ lunch, and the guidance of an experienced river guide. While it features some splashes and a class 2-3 rapid, it remains a leisurely float rather than a whitewater challenge, making it ideal for nervous paddlers or first-timers. Keep in mind that photos and videos are available for purchase afterward, but hotel transfers are not included.

Key Points

• Family-friendly rafting suitable for children 7 years and older and 50 lbs minimum
• Approximate 4-hour experience with 14 km float through scenic Yoho National Park
• Includes a riverside BBQ lunch with options to choose hot off the grill and snacks
• All rafting gear provided, including wetsuits, helmets, PFDs, and paddles
• The tour departs from and returns to Golden, BC, with bus transport included
• Perfect for those seeking calm waters with some fun splashes and a memorable scenery experience

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Meeting at the Glacier Raft Company Base in Golden, BC

The journey begins at the Glacier Raft Company rafting base, marked by a large billboard and whitewater rafting sign. Once checked in, a staff member guides participants through setup, providing all necessary rafting gear such as wetsuits, splash tops, helmets, PFDs, and paddles. The bus transport takes everyone to the edge of the Upper Canyon where the adventure starts.

The meeting point is well-organized with parking available in a large lot, making logistics straightforward. Since no hotel pickup or drop-off is offered, transportation from local accommodations must be arranged separately. This setup simplifies planning, especially for visitors staying in Golden or nearby.

Scenic Float Through Yoho National Park

Rafting covers 14 km of calm Upper Canyon waters, floating through beautiful forests and mountain landscapes. The float begins in Yoho National Park, providing scenic views of British Columbia’s iconic natural beauty. The river’s gentle pace allows ample opportunity to take in the surroundings while enjoying the thrill of splashes here and there.

The float features a class 2-3 rapid, which introduces some excitement without overwhelming those uncomfortable with big whitewater. This rapid adds just enough thrill to keep the experience lively, especially with the option to go for a swim if you feel confident. The overall feeling remains relaxed and family-friendly, with a focus on sightseeing and light fun.

Waterfalls and Water Stops Along the River

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the waterfall stop along the river, giving participants a chance to explore a small waterfall and take pictures. The guides often incorporate this into the float, making it a highlight of the day. The stops are carefully designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages, with some gentle hiking involved.

Along With the waterfalls, the float offers splashes and gentle rapids that add a splash of excitement without making it a whitewater challenge. These features appeal to families and first-time rafters seeking a balance between adventure and comfort.

Riverside BBQ Lunch and Refreshments

The tour ends with a riverside BBQ lunch served at the rafting base. The menu includes hot items off the grill plus a variety of snacks and drinks, providing a satisfying conclusion to the adventure. The lunch is seen as a real highlight, offering a chance to relax, swap stories, and enjoy the mountain scenery in a laid-back setting.

Guests can choose their preferred items, making the meal customizable for different tastes. The lunch area is conveniently located at the base, allowing for a quick change into dry clothes and a warm shower after the float.

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Included and Not Included in the Tour

All rafting equipment—including wetsuits, boots, splash tops, helmets, PFDs, and paddles—is provided, ensuring safety and comfort. The bus transport to the river from the Golden base and back is also part of the package. A knowledgeable river guide accompanies the group, leading the float and sharing interesting facts about the river and local environment.

Photos and videos of the trip are available for purchase afterward, but there is no hotel pickup or drop-off included. Travelers should plan to meet at the rafting base and arrange their own transportation if staying outside Golden.

Pacing, Timing, and Physical Requirements

This 4-hour tour offers a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, splashes, and stops. Since the float is primarily calm with some splashes and a class 2-3 rapid, it’s suitable for those seeking a gentle river experience. Participants need to bring swimwear and a towel if they wish to swim or get changed afterward.

The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old or those weighing less than 50 lbs. Physical activity is minimal but requires comfort in water and the willingness to float for an extended period.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Golden, BC

What makes this rafting trip unique is its focus on family-friendly fun combined with stunning scenery. The riverside BBQ lunch adds a memorable dining experience after floating through mountains and forests. The guides, such as Stephie, Pete, Nico, and Diego, are praised for their enthusiasm, patience, and knowledge, making the experience both safe and engaging.

The waterfall stop and light rapids make this adventure lively enough to be exciting without intimidating nervous riders. The tour’s excellent reviews, with a rating of 4.9/5 from 66 reviews, highlight consistent satisfaction among participants.

Final Thoughts on the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic float, gentle thrills, and good food at an accessible price point. The 4-hour duration makes it manageable for most day plans and suitable for families with children as young as 7. Its family-friendly design and positive reviews underscore its appeal for those seeking a relaxed yet fun outdoor activity in Golden, BC.

While it doesn’t include hotel transfers or intense whitewater, it compensates with fantastic scenery, engaging stops, and a hearty BBQ lunch. This adventure suits those who want to enjoy British Columbia’s natural beauty without the physical demands of more challenging whitewater trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 7 years and older and weighing at least 50 lbs can participate. It is designed to be family-friendly and gentle.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim or change clothes after the float. Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for rain or shine.

Are photos available?
Yes, photos and videos of the trip are available for purchase after the tour.

Is transportation included?
Transportation to and from the river in Golden, BC, is included, but there is no hotel pickup or drop-off.

How long does the tour last?
The complete experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including the float, stops, and lunch.

What is the difficulty level?
The float is calm with some splashes and features one class 2-3 rapid, suitable for most casual paddlers and nervous riders.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there is an option to go for a swim if you feel comfortable in the water.

What is included in the price?
All rafting gear, bus transport, and a riverside BBQ lunch are included in the $79 per person price.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the tour proceeds regardless of weather conditions.

Who is the guide?
Guides like Stephie, Pete, Nico, and Diego are highly praised for their enthusiasm, patience, and expertise.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with Pay Later options available, offering flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

This family-friendly rafting trip on the Kicking Horse River in Golden, BC, combines scenic beauty, gentle thrills, and a satisfying BBQ lunch, making it an ideal outdoor activity for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable mountain adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby