The pure
beauty is all around you when visiting the Rockies region of British
Columbia. The all inspiring mountains seem to reach for the skies,
while streams and waterfalls make their way down into the green valleys
below. The alpine meadows and pine forests only add more beauty and
provide a home for the abundant wildlife, that includes deer, moose, elks, grizzly and black bears, coyotes, wolves, cougars, wolverines, mountain goats and big horn sheep. Leave behind
you the hustle and hectic pace, enjoy the unhurried life style of
the Rockies.
Paddling the Columbia River down the Rocky Mountain Trench is an adventure
that will be long remembered. This river makes its way through marshes,
hills, and forests with the Rocky Mountains forming a magnificent
backdrop. There is a wilderness feeling about this river with its
waterfowl and other birds. Fishing is excellent, so take time out
an enjoy this relaxing past time. This upper section of the Columbia
River is easy paddling, novices with some training on moving water
should have no problems as there are no really rapids. The put-in
on Columbia
Lake to the take-out at Donald Station is about 235 km (148 mi.)
with easy access, as the highway makes its way right along the river.
If planning on doing the full trip, best plan on taking seven to eight
days for the complete paddle.
Another river that feature good paddling is the Kootenay River, from
Gibralter to Wardner. Anyone with intermediate paddling experience
and moving water skills will find this fun. There is one rapid section
that is a grade or class 3, so be prepared for it and portage this
part. This section of the Kootenay River is approximately 132 km (82
mi.) in length and will take from 3 to 4 days to do. You can put-in
and take-out anywhere as the river has road access on both sides.
When planning a canoe or kayak trip to a region that is unfamiliar,
it is best that you check with a local club and local equipment dealers.
They will be able to give you and up to date reading on water conditions
and hazards to avoid. It's always better to be safe and not sorry.
Whether a novice or a very experienced paddler be safe, have fun!
Book
A Canoe Or Kayak Trip
The following
BC Adventure Network members invite you to kayak or canoe with them:
Glacier Raft Company: For 35 years Glacier Raft Company has been providing white water rafting trips on the Kicking Horse, and other beautiful rivers around Golden B.C. TripAdvisors #1 Attraction in Golden! We love the water and the thrill it provides and we want to share it with y... more
