1. Do I need to know how to swim?
Basic swimming ability is required

2. Will I fall out?
It is always a possibility, but there are guidelines on every boat to hold onto - the guides will actually tell you when to hold on. The guides will also give detailed safety instructions before the trip starts.

3. What class are the rapids?
10% are class 1; 40% class 2; 30% class 3; 20% class 4. Class 4 rapids are the highest rapids operators are legally allowed to raft.

4. What qualifications do the guides have?
Your safety is paramount which is why each of our guides is Government Certified and carry Wilderness First Aid and Swift water Rescue Certificates, plus all guides are also Certified Trip Leaders.

5. Is rafting dangerous?
Rafting is an adventurous activity, and as such, there is a degree of risk. Hydra River Guides does it's best to ensure the safety of all participants.

6. Do you do half day trips?
Our trips are either 4 hours in duration (Kicking Horse Classic) or 6 hours in duration (The Ultimate), depending on the trip type. This includes river time, lunch, safety speech and time for gearing up. This duration does not include travel time. The Kicking Horse Classic trip would be considered our half day.

7. What part the river do you raft?
Hydra offers trips on the upper and lower canyon of the river.

8. Is the water cold?
The Kicking Horse River is glacier fed, so the water is always cold no matter the time of day or year. To keep our rafters warm we provide 4mm wetsuits, neoprene booties & gloves, wool sweaters, and spray jackets - as well as life jackets and helmets for safety.

9. How many people in each raft?
8 rafters plus the guide.

10. Will my group be able to be in the same raft?
Rafters will be divided into groups at the river base. Let the guides know how many people in your group and you will be rafting together. If your group is more than 8 people, then you may be spilt across several rafts.

11. What size do your wetsuits go up to?
We have wetsuits up to XXXL, but there is a maximum weight restriction of 300lbs.

12. Can I bring a camera?
Yes, but if you plan to bring the camera on the raft with you, make sure that it is waterproof, and keep in mind that you will be paddling and bumped around in the raft so you will not be able to hold the camera ready for pictures. Hydra does have a professional photographer who takes both group and action shots of your rafting trip which are available for purchase after the trip.


 

 
Hydra River Guides DVD