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As the final trip of the day, the Last Waltz departs at 3:45 pm daily. Setting off from our exclusive River Base (located right on the bank of the Kicking Horse) allows you to hit the water without any delays, maximizing your time on the rapids. Our guides will take your through rapids ranging from class 1-4, including the infamous Shotgun and Portage sections!

When it comes to having a blast on the water, Hydra River Guides is your number one choice for whitewater rafting in Banff. For over 30 years, we’ve helped adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies experience the infamous Kicking Horse River. Home to wicked rapids, incredible views, and a ton, there’s no better place to get your thrill on! Hydra operates several excursions on the river daily, with our Classic trip being a customer favourite. Why? Find out below!

Each summer, Banff, Alberta treats millions of visitors to stunning views, fantastic food, and no shortage of activities for adventures big and small. With some of the best rapids, and trails in Canada, it’s no wonder that the Rocky Mountains attract adrenaline junkies from all over the world. If you’re looking to blow off some steam this summer and get your paddles deep into a thrilling whitewater expedition, here’s a few reasons Banff is the perfect place for you and your crew!

If you’re looking to hit the mountains this summer, there’s no better way to have a blast in the outdoors by suiting up, grabbing a paddle, and tackling some of the best rapids North America has to offer. For over 30 years, Hydra River Guides has been Banff’s first choice for whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River.

Who’s ready to grab your paddle, zip up your life jacket (safety first!), and hit the water? We are! Hydra River Guides is excited to announce that our 2018 rafting season is officially open! We’ve been guiding thousands of guests down the Kicking Horse River for over 30 years, helping them experience thrills, immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, and make wild memories the whole gang to share around our ultra-exclusive River Base.

Have a thirst for adventure that a day on the water can’t quite quench? No worries, Hydra still has you covered! Our Adrenaline Junkie package takes you from water to sky, giving you the thrill of world class rapids, paired with the exhilaration of skydiving from 10,000 ft.

With over 30 years of experience guiding rafters of all ages and experience levels, Hydra is happy to offer custom group trips for those looking to accommodate groups of 8 or more. Whether you’re looking to make a splash before you take the plunge, celebrate a birthday, or take dad on a Father’s Day adventure he’ll always remember, we’ve got a trip for you!

Hydra’s official 2018 season hasn’t kicked off on the Kicking Horse quite yet (we’re crossing our fingers and waiting for the snow to clear right along with you!), there’s no time like the present to book your rafting adventure!

One of our most frequently asked questions is: "is the water you raft in cold?". The answer is yes. Why? The Kicking Horse is a glacier fed river, and just like putting ice cubes in your water, that run off keeps things refreshingly chilly.

Hydra River Guides knows that there’s no shortage of rafting companies to help you get wet and wild this summer. For over 30 years, we’ve been fortunate to call the Kicking Horse River home and to guide adventurers down the water we know and love.