Kootenay River Canoeing Trip
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Perfect for Intermediate Paddlers
With its awe-inspiring scenery and delightful whitewater, this gem of a river rivals any remote wilderness river of the Far North. This trip has intermediate-level paddlers starting within the heart of the Rocky Mountains, as they trace the flanks of the rugged peaks, enjoying 5 days on the glacial blue Kootenay river waters. Fascinating geological features accent each bend, creating stunning views and playful rapids ranging from class 1-3. Our relaxed itinerary allows for time to play in the cool waters and explore the magical side trails in this corridor.
This guided expedition comes with a 10% savings on a 2-day whitewater canoeing course in advance of the trip at Elements Adventure Co’s paddling school on the Shuswap River near Vernon, BC.
Through our partnership with Western Canoe and Kayak, you will also receive a 15% savings for in-store accessories to help you prepare for your trip.
Are you looking to participate with your partner? Consider our Couples Adventure Retreat on the Kootenay River.
Trip Dates
July 11-16, 2026
Trip Duration
6 Days (5 Days on the River)
Cost
Starting at $2,250 + GST /person
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL save $200 before
Dec 1, 2025
Policies & Procedures
Click here to review trip policies and procedures
Bonus
10% discount a 2-day river-canoeing course taught by a certified Paddle Canada and/or RCABC instructor in advance of the expedition.
HOW IS THIS EXPEDITION UNIQUE?
Often referred to as the ‘affordable Nahanni’, the Kootenay can offer stunning scenery and world-class canoeing, at a fraction of the time and money investment of a Northern wilderness trip. We offer intermediate-level paddlers the chance to hone their whitewater skills in a safe setting, a chance to connect with other adventurous people, and truly experience a trip of a lifetime. Its location means we only spend 6 hours driving to our put-in from Vernon, BC.
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
- “I want to use my intermediate-level canoeing skills to paddle some moderately challenging whitewater to improve my skills and experience in a safe setting.”
- “I enjoy adventuring with new people and working as a team”.
- “I’m looking for an adventure that gives me the space to connect with myself, the people on the trip, and to the natural world around me.”
SKILL LEVEL REQUIRED – LEVEL II (INTERMEDIATE)
Participants have experience canoeing on intermediate rivers and are confident adventuring in the outdoors. They are familiar with basic canoeing strokes and manouvres, have taken a river paddling course, and are comfortable around/on/in moving water. Participants can expect to build on skills and experience in new and challenging conditions under the leadership of their guides. Participants should be fit and capable of carrying their canoe and gear over rough terrain.
WHAT WILL WE BE DOING (OTHER THAN PADDLING)?
- hiking, fishing, snoozing, reading
- learning about local botany, geology, ecology
- learning river canoeing skills such as scouting rapids, group management, choosing safe lines through rapids, making safe decisions, and more
- stopping to play in a safe rapid
- evening circle (debrief the day, review plan for tomorrow)
- there will most likely be some singing…
- there will most definitely be cooking and eating delicious food!
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Join us for an exhilarating intermediate canoeing expedition on the Kootenay river in beautiful British Columbia.
This trip is a perfect blend of challenge and relaxation. Our experienced guides will provide expert instruction, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the adventure.
Got questions? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us here to chat.