Wild Water is the top choice for experienced rafting guides in the Canadian Rockies.

Liz Behler
CanadianRockies.net
Staff Writer

BANFF, ALBERTA – Canada – Sun, fresh mountain air, stunning Canadian Rockies scenery, and the invigorating waters of the Kicking Horse River. For some, this is where they come to get away from the stresses of life at the office. But what about the people who work here? The people who make the Kicking Horse River their office?

Ted Bilton is the owner of Wild Water Adventures in Banff, Alberta — a top tier whitewater company that’s been operating on the Kicking Horse River for 20 years, guiding families, whitewater enthusiasts and even celebrities. Wild Water has grown a reputation for its high level of service and highly qualified, experienced tour guides. But what exactly does it take to become a Wild Water rafting guide?

Requirements for Becoming a Wild Water Rafting Guide in Banff, Alberta

Wild Water insists its guides meet five criteria. Each guide must have a minimum of three seasons rafting on similar difficulty rivers to prove they have the technical skills required, and all guides must have some proven proficiency operating at a higher level within a company. Guides also must have a positive mental attitude, a presentable image, and have a passion for people.

“We have a saying at Wild Water, that we’re more interested in people than equipment,” says Bilton. He knows that while all guides need to know how to use the equipment and possess strong rafting skills and knowledge of first aid, the ability to interact positively with people is something that’s hard to train. “They need to like to be around other people, and be someone that others like to be around,” says Bilton.

The Perks of Being a Wild Water Guide in Banff, Alberta

There are a lot of benefits for individuals to become guides with Wild Water as well. Pay is commensurate with skill, and since Wild Water requires guides to be highly skilled, they also receive a higher level of pay. And the company’s success means that guides are never short of work. But the biggest reason Wild Water attracts the best rafting guides might have to do with the company’s dedication to customer service.

“I’ve been a guide before, and I know how hard it is to make excuses for why you’re handing out wet wetsuits, or old gear, or suits with a tear in the knee,” says Bilton, who was a guide for 7 years before starting the Banff-based company in the Canadian Rockies. “Our guides don’t have to make excuses. Our gear is always held to a high level and I know that makes a difference to the guides.”

And having a boss who knows the ins and outs of the job is helpful, too. “They like that their boss has been a guide, that I understand their concerns — whether it be about the hours they work or anything else. I get it.”

Wild Water operates tours on the Kicking Horse River, a glacier-fed river with rapids that range from Class II to IV+, in Banff, Alberta. Wild Water has offices in Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park.

More of The Best Things to Do in Banff, Alberta

Explore Banff, Alberta
Don’t pack up as soon as you finish rafting the Kicking Horse River. There’s plenty more to do in Banff, Alberta!  Explore Banff National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Banff Travel. Want more whitewater? Other Banff, Alberta whitewater rafting guide outfitters include Banff Rafting and Banff Whitewater Rafting.

Visit Nearby Jasper, Alberta
Only four hours away via the scenic Icefields Parkway, Jasper, situated in the middle of scenic Jasper National Park, is a must-see destination for those visiting the Banff, Alberta area. Check out JasperVacations.com for tours or visit Jasper Vacations for information about whitewater adventures in Jasper, Alberta.

Wild Water has become the choice for many visiting the area, including high-profile celebrities.

Liz Behler
CanadianRockies.net
Staff Writer

BANFF, ALBERTA – Canada – The raging rapids of the Kicking Horse River draw thrill seekers of all backgrounds to Banff, Alberta. Families, friends, nature lovers, and even celebrities have searched out the waters here.

“Once you’re on the river, you’re always in the action,” says Ted Bilton, owner of Wild Water Adventures, the go-to whitewater outfitter for celebrities visiting the Banff area. “Unlike other rivers, which have long sections where you just float, the Kicking Horse River has a continuity that makes it fun to be on. The water is the constant entertainment.”

In business for 20 years, Wild Water has become the choice for many visiting the Banff, Alberta area in the Canadian Rockies, including high-profile celebrities.

“We have a reputation as a high-end provider,” says Bilton. “We’re known for our high level of service and our high degree of concern for risk management. Celebrities choose us for the reputation we have in the area.”

Celebrities That Raft with Wild Water in Banff, Alberta

When pressed for some names of his celebrity clientele, Bilton is evasive. He prefers to uphold his client’s privacy, part of his company’s resolve for a higher standard of service. Bilton instead lists the types of celebs who have previously rafted with Wild Water — country western singers in for the Calgary Stampede, NHL hockey players, former heavyweight boxing champs, PGA and LPGA tour players, and Saudi royal family members.

“It was especially memorable when we hosted some of the Saudi princes and princesses,” says Bilton. “They come from a country with hardly any water. The river was astounding to them…and so were the temperatures.”

Wild Water operates tours on the Kicking Horse River, a glacier-fed river with rapids that range from Class II to IV+, in Banff, Alberta. Wild Water has offices in Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park.

More of The Best Things to Do in Banff, Alberta

Explore Banff, Alberta
Don’t pack up as soon as you finish rafting the Kicking Horse River. There’s plenty more to do in Banff, Alberta!  Explore Banff National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Banff Travel. Want more whitewater? Other Banff, Alberta whitewater rafting guide outfitters include Banff Rafting and Banff Whitewater Rafting.

Visit Nearby Jasper, Alberta
Only four hours away via the scenic Icefields Parkway, Jasper, situated in the middle of scenic Jasper National Park, is a must-see destination for those visiting the Banff, Alberta area. Check out JasperVacations.com for tours or visit Jasper Vacations for information about whitewater adventures in Jasper, Alberta.

Navigate raging rapids in the shadow of Mt. Robson on the Fraser River in Jasper, Alberta.

JASPER, ALBERTA – Canada – Navigate the raging rapids of the Fraser River in Jasper, Alberta. Take on turbulent waters and swirling eddies before entering lulls, giving you chances to spy wildlife and maybe catch glimpses of seasonal spawning salmon. Stop for a short portage around thundering Rearguard Falls before continuing along the river, splashing through rough rapids bordered by steep canyon walls.

More About the Fraser River in Alberta, Canada

At 1,375 kms, the Fraser River is one of the longest rivers in the Canadian Rockies, and was disovered in 1972 by the Spanish explorers Dionisio Alcalá Galiano and Cayetano Valdés. The river, which also runs through British Columbia, has played a large role in the history of its surrounding area and has been designated a Canadian Heritage River. The Fraser River was the site of the first recorded settlements of Aboriginal people and the route for prospectors during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush. The Fraser River also served as the primary vehicle for early industry and commerce in the region, making it an important part of the history of the Canadian Rockies and the Jasper, Alberta area.

Want to raft the Fraser River on your next Alberta, Canada vacation? Call 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today or visit AlbertaRafting.org for more information.

More of the Best Things to Do in Banff and Jasper, Alberta

You may have come to the Alberta, Canada area for whitewater adventure, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes the Canadian Rockies a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

Families love the mellow waters of the Athabasca River in Jasper, Alberta.

JASPER, ALBERTA – Canada – Originating from the Columbia Glacier in Jasper National Park, the Athabasca River is a mellow, family-friendly whitewater experience. Starting at the base of the Athabasca Glacier, the river flows along icefields and through gorges, giving visitors ample opportunities to spy wildlife on the shores and adjacent marshes. Its historic role as a hunting and fishing ground for several Native American tribes and its importance as part of the fur trade route have earned it the designation of a Canadian Heritage River.

The Athabasca River in Jasper, Alberta is the perfect option for first-timers, reluctant rafters, and members of the younger set. The gentle waters, combined with the beautiful Canadian Rockies scenery, make the Athabasca River a must-do for families visiting Alberta, Canada

Want to raft the Athabasca River on your next Jasper, Alberta vacation? Call 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today, or visit AlbertaRafting.org for more information.

More of the Best Things to Do in Banff and Jasper, Alberta

You may have come to the Canadian Rockies for the whitewater adventure, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes Alberta, Canada a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

Sunwapta Falls is located on the Sunwapta River in Jasper National Park.

JASPER, ALBERTA – Canada – The name “Sunwapta” translates to “turbulent river” in the Stoney Indian language. And with it’s Class III rapids and steep gradient, Sunwapt River in Jasper, Alberta lives up to its name. Dividing Jasper National Park and Banff National Park, Sunwapta River is an easily accessible whitewater destination, steeped in natural beauty and adventure.

Don’t miss a visit to the exciting Sunwapta River during the high-water season, starting in mid-June and ending in late July.

Want to whitewater raft the Sunwapta River on your next Alberta, Canada vacation? Call 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today, or visit AlbertaRafting.org for more information.

More of the Best Things to Do in Alberta, Canada

You may have come to the Canadian Rockies for the whitewater adventure, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes Alberta, Canada a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

The Horseshoe Canyon boasts Class III and IV rapids.

CALGARY, ALBERTA – Canada – Situated in the front ranges of the Rockies, near Calgary, Alberta, Horseshoe Canyon combines big waves with spectacular scenery for an unforgettable whitewater experience. Whitewater raft Class III and IV rapids through shale canyons on this thrilling whitewater river in the Canadian Rockies.

Horseshoe Canyon is easily accessible, but maintains a feeling of remoteness, perfect for a rejuvenating day on the water. Wildlife is also abundant — keep your eyes peeled for large birds of prey while rafting here in Alberta, Canada.

Want to raft Horseshoe Canyon on your next Alberta, Canada vacation? Visit AlbertaRafting.org or dial 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 or to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today!

More of the Best Things to Do in Alberta, Canada

Whitewater adventure may have lured you to the Canadian Rockies, but you shouldn’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes Alberta, Canada a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies’ spectacular scenery.

The Elbow River is the perfect choice for beginner rafters.

ALBERTA – Canada – The Elbow River in Alberta is the perfect choice for “reluctant rafters.” No experience is necessary for this mild float. Start at Sandy Beach, which sports a shallow access point, easy to navigate for kids and adults alike, for a two-hour river float before ending at the 4th Street bridge. Looking to add some more intensity? It’s possible to ride the Elbow all the way to the Bow River. Due to water levels, whitewater rafting on the Elbow River is only possible for a short time during May and June each year. Your family will love their time on the Elbow River on your next Canadian Rockies vacation.

Want to experience the Elbow River on your next Canadian Rockies vacation? Call 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today!

More of the Best Things to Do in Alberta, Canada

Looking for more family-friendly ideas for things to do on your next vacation to Alberta, Canada? Visit Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the scenic beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

The Kananaskis is deal for beginners, but still has enough thrills to keep experienced rafters engaged.

ALBERTA – Canada – Ideal for beginners, but with enough thrills to keep even experienced rafters engaged, the Kananaskis River is the perfect family-friendly option for rafting in Alberta, Canada.

Expect Class II and III level rapids on this dam-controlled river (meaning the water levels are predictable). Whether you’re a beginner looking for the right place to try whitewater rafting, or are looking for an outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy, the Kananaskis River is the perfect choice for your next Canadian Rockies vacation.

More About the Kananaskis River in Alberta, Canada

The Kananaskis River stretches over 74 kms. The ominously-named first rapid, the Widow Maker, is a class III pool drop known for being turbulent. If you’re looking to start off on calmer waters, it’s easy to begin your whitewater rafting adventure below this section of the river. Further on, rafters encounter several other sections, including man-made eddies, waves, and holes for playboating.

Whitewater Festival on the Kananaskis River in Alberta, Canada

Along the banks of the river sits the Canoe Meadows site, home to the popular Kananaskis Whitewater Festival nicknamed Kanfest, which takes place each August. Kanfest attracts both beginners and experts for a weekend filled with kayaking on the Kananaskis.

Want to ride the rapids on the Kananaskis River on your next Alberta, Canada vacation? Head over to Alberta Rafting to book a tour today or dial 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist!

More of the Best Things to Do in Alberta, Canada

You may have come to the Canadian Rockies to spend your days on the water, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes Alberta, Canada a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

Rapids on the Kicking Horse range from Class II to Class IV+

ALBERTA – Canada – Visitors to Alberta, Canada shouldn’t miss a chance to raft some of the best rapids in the Canadian Rockies on the Kicking Horse River. Rapids on the Kicking Horse range from Class II to Class IV+, offering rafters the choice between a tranquil float trip or a heart-pumping ride in the Lower Canyon.

Visit May through September to raft this glacier-fed body of water, colored a stunning turquoise, to experience one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in the Canadian Rockies.

More About the Kicking Horse River in Alberta, Canada

Originating in Yoho National Park, and sourced from the meltwater from the Icefields, the Kicking Horse River is an example of a glacier-fed mountain river. Covering 52 km, the Kicking Horse River flows through both the eastern and western main ranges of the Rocky Mountains before joining the Columbia River in Golden, BC.

Raftable sections of the river begin downstream of Wapta Falls. The river’s name stems from an incident near the falls in August 1858, when James Hector, a Scottish geologist on an expedition of the area, had a mishap where his horse kicked him in the chest. He survived, and went on to name the river and the pass after his experience here.

Wildlife at Kicking Horse River in Alberta, Canada

The banks of the Kicking Horse River in Alberta, Canada are a great place to spy wildlife. Keep an eye out for moose, deer, bears, elk, mountain goats, and other animals. Interested in seeing more critters that call the Canadian Rockies home? Opt for a wildlife tour of the area with Jasper Vacations.

For more information, check out the Friends of the Kicking Horse River, a volunteer group working to protect the Kicking Horse for future generations or head over to AlbertaRafting.org to book a tour.

Want more information on whitewater rafting in Alberta? Call 800-519-4770 or 403-774-7215 to speak to an Alberta Rafting specialist today!

More of the Best Things to Do in Banff and Jasper, Alberta

You may have come to the Canadian Rockies to raft the Kicking Horse River, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes Alberta, Canada a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

The Kicking Horse River is one of the many Alberta rivers for rafters to experience during their Canadian Rockies vacation.

ALBERTA – Canada – From the raging rapids of the Kicking Horse River in Banff, to the family-friendly, mellow rapids of the Athabasca River, Alberta has whitewater rafting adventures for rafters of all experience levels. Read on for our breakdown of rivers in the Banff, Calgary, and Jasper areas of Alberta, Canada.

Whitewater Rafting Banff, Alberta

The Kicking Horse River
Raft some of the best rapids in the Canadian Rockies on the Kicking Horse River, located near Banff and Lake Louise. With rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV+, the Kicking Horse offers rafters the choice between tranquil float trips and adrenaline-pumping rides in the Lower Canyon. The Kicking Horse River is also a great place to spy wildlife in Alberta, Canada. Depending upon the time of year, it is not uncommon to see moose, deer, elk, bears and mountain goats on the banks of the river.

Whitewater Rafting near Calgary, Alberta

The Kananaskis River
The Kananaskis River is ideal for beginners, but has enough thrills to keep seasoned rafters entertained. Accessible from Banff, Canmore, Edmonton and Calgary, the Kananaskis River is fun for the whole family.

Elbow River
A great start for novice rafters, the Elbow River provides rafters with a lazy, two-hour float near Calgary, Alberta. Start at Sandy Beach, which has a shallow access point, making it easier for both kids and adults, before ending at the 4th Street bridge. Rafters looking to add some difficulty can ride the Elbow all the way to the Bow River, but know that this route should be made in early summer, before the water levels sink too low.

Horseshoe Canyon
Whitewater raft through shale canyons on the Horseshoe Canyon in Calgary, Alberta. Offering spectacular scenery and up to Grade IV rapids, Horseshoe Canyon is a must-visit for adventure seekers on vacation in Alberta, Canada!

Whitewater Rafting in Jasper, Alberta

Sunwapta River
“Sunwapta” was named by the Stoney Indians and it’s name means “turbulent river.” Thanks to numerous rapids and a steep gradient, Sunwapta lives up to it’s name. Located within Jasper National Park, this Class III river offers breathtaking scenery and ample wildlife viewing. Visit mid-June to late July for the high-water season.

Athabasca River
Gear up for family fun on mellow rapids of the Athabasca River in Jasper National Park. The scenic beauty of the Athabasca River and it’s historic role in the fur trade have made it a designated Canadian Heritage River.

Fraser River
Navigate raging rapids in the shadow of Mt. Robson on the Fraser River in Jasper, Alberta. Spot wildlife and seasonal spawning salmon during lulls in between turbulent rapids and swirling eddies. The “Mighty Fraser” is one of the top rivers for whitewater rafting in Jasper, Alberta.

More of the Best Things to Do in Banff and Jasper, Alberta

You may have come to the Canadian Rockies for the whitewater adventure, but don’t leave before you get to experience more of what makes the Canadian Rockies a top vacation destination. Explore Banff National Park or Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, or make the most of your time with a tour from Jasper Vacations or Banff Travel. No matter which activity you choose, you’ll be glad you stayed to experience more of the Canadian Rockies.