Golden, BC: Kicking Horse River Family Rafting with Lunch

When planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, the idea of adding a family-friendly rafting adventure in Golden might be just what you need for a memorable day. This tour, offered by Glacier Raft Company, promises a gentle yet exciting float along the Upper Canyon of the Kicking Horse River, with plenty of stunning scenery and a tasty riverside BBQ to round out the experience.

What we really like about this trip is how well it balances scenic beauty with adventure suited for all ages. It’s especially appealing for families with kids as young as 7 or those who aren’t keen on big whitewater. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this isn’t for thrill-seekers looking for intense rapids; it’s more of a relaxing, scenic float with just enough splash and excitement. This tour is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a fun, easygoing introduction to whitewater rafting in the Rockies.

Key Points

Suitable for families with children from age 7 and above, as long as they weigh at least 50 lbs.
Scenic views of the Canadian Rockies and Yoho National Park make this a photographer’s delight.
A gentle float with a single class 2-3 rapid, perfect for nervous riders or beginners.
Includes a riverside BBQ lunch, offering good value for the experience.
Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip both safe and fun.
Rain or shine, the tour runs, so come prepared for weather variations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kicking Horse River Family Rafting Experience

An Easy-Going, Scenic Start in Golden

The adventure begins at the Glacier Raft Company base in Golden, BC, a town renowned for its outdoor opportunities and warm hospitality. Upon arrival, you’ll check in, get outfitted with all necessary raft gear—wetsuits, splash tops, helmets, PFDs, paddles—and meet your experienced guide. The process is smooth, efficient, and designed to get you on the water quickly so you can enjoy maximum float time.

The bus ride from the base to the river is short and scenic, setting the tone for what’s to come. Expect to traverse through lush forests and mountain views, providing a taste of the stunning landscape that surrounds this part of British Columbia.

The Float: Calm Waters with Just a Touch of Thrill

Once on the river, you’ll paddle your way along about 14 km of the Upper Canyon, floating through Yoho National Park. The trip is designed for those who want to enjoy nature without feeling overwhelmed by whitewater. The river features some splashes and a single class 2-3 rapid, which adds a bit of excitement without risking getting tossed out of your boat.

Reviewers highlight that the guides are excellent at making everyone feel safe—one even being described as “patient and enthusiastic.” If you’re worried about the rapids, know that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to just float and take in the scenery. Several reviews mention how the guides provide engaging commentary about the landscape and the river’s history, enriching the experience far beyond just paddling.

Waterfalls and Water Stops

A key highlight is the waterfall stop—a perfect photo opportunity as you gaze at cascading water amidst the mountains. This break offers a chance to stretch, take pictures, and appreciate the wild beauty of the environment. For those feeling brave, there’s an option to swim in the river, adding a refreshing element to the trip.

According to guest feedback, guides are attentive and make sure everyone stays comfortable, especially those who may be less confident in water. The consistent theme is that safety and fun go hand-in-hand, making this a good choice for family members of varying ages and abilities.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Riverside BBQ Lunch: A Tasty Finish

After about four hours on the river, your journey concludes with a riverside BBQ lunch. The menu features hot off the grill options, complemented by a selection of snacks and drinks. Guests appreciate the value and quality of this meal, seeing it as a fitting reward after paddling and relaxing in nature.

The lunch spot provides a laid-back setting, where you can unwind, swap stories about the trip, and relish the mountain views. Many reviews praise the friendly staff and the well-organized nature of the meal service, making the experience feel complete and satisfying.

Returning to Golden

Once your stomach is satisfied, the bus will pick you up and deliver you back to the base in Golden. From there, you can change into dry clothes and enjoy a hot shower—an appreciated touch after spending time on the water.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Scenic Setting

Floating through Yoho National Park and along the Kicking Horse River offers some of the best mountain scenery in the area. Guests consistently mention the stunning landscapes, lush forests, and mountain vistas, which make this tour more than just a float—it’s a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of British Columbia.

Family-Friendly Design

The tour’s age and weight restrictions (minimum 7 years old, at least 50 lbs) make it accessible for many families. The guides’ emphasis on safety, patience, and engaging commentary helps kids and nervous riders feel comfortable. As one reviewer put it, “The trip was fun-filled with plenty of giggles,” which shows how kids enjoy the gentle thrills.

The Value of the Entire Experience

At $79 per person, this trip offers a lot for the price: equipment, guide, transportation, scenic float, and a hearty lunch. For families or couples looking for an active outdoor activity that won’t leave them exhausted, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Guests often highlight their guides for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and ability to balance safety with fun. Whether it’s explaining the river’s features or sharing stories about the area, guides make the experience memorable.

Light Adventure with No Overwhelm

If you’re worried about whitewater or paddling skills, this tour is reassuringly gentle. It provides just enough splash and movement to keep the fun alive without risking discomfort or fear. The option to swim or just float along keeps it relaxed.

Weather Considerations

The tour runs in rain or shine, so packing a waterproof layer is wise. Fortunately, many reviews mention that the provided outerwear keeps you warm even on cooler days, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is perfect for families with children from age 7 onward who want a safe, scenic introduction to rafting. It appeals to those looking for a laid-back outdoor activity in the Rockies, combining nature, gentle adventure, and good food. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides and a focus on comfort.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple wanting to enjoy mountain scenery with a bit of fun, this tour offers a relaxed alternative to more intense whitewater trips. It’s equally suitable for older adults or anyone who prefers a more leisurely pace while still experiencing the thrill of floating down a mountain river.

Final Thoughts

The Golden BC: Kicking Horse River Family Rafting with Lunch offers an inviting balance of scenery, gentle adventure, and local hospitality. It’s an excellent option for families, first-timers, or anyone seeking a memorable outdoor activity that doesn’t compromise comfort or safety. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning mountain views make it a trip worth considering when visiting the Canadian Rockies.

While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies, it provides a satisfying taste of rafting in breathtaking surroundings. Plus, the riverside BBQ lunch offers a hearty, convivial conclusion to a day of floating through some of BC’s most beautiful landscapes.

For anyone wanting a relaxing yet engaging family outing, this tour delivers a well-organized, value-packed experience that creates lasting memories without the stress. It’s a true showcase of what makes the Rockies so special—mountains, water, and friendly guides ready to share their love of the region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for kids as young as 7 and weighing at least 50 lbs. It’s perfect for families wanting a safe, scenic float with just enough splash.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel. It’s also wise to wear weather-appropriate outerwear as the tour runs rain or shine.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, rafting, and lunch.

Are photos and videos available?
Yes, they can be purchased after the trip, but they are not included in the base price.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the bus from the raft base to the river and back is included, making logistics easy.

Do I need to worry about whitewater experience?
Not at all. The trip features mostly calm waters, with a single class 2-3 rapid, suitable for beginners and the cautious.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s an option to swim if you feel comfortable, as long as you follow guide instructions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs regardless of weather, so come prepared for rain or cooler temperatures with appropriate clothing.

In all, if you’re looking for a family-friendly, scenic, and relaxed introduction to rafting in the Canadian Rockies, this trip hits the mark. It’s a chance to enjoy nature, share a tasty meal, and create stories to remember.

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