Planning Your Trip

Power or Paddle Rafting?

The Thompson and Fraser are exceptionally large, deep rivers. The Thompson is a tributary of the Fraser and carries about one-third the flow of the Fraser. They meet at Lytton (The Salish Indians of Lytton referred to the spectacle of these two great rivers converging as the great forks or "kumsheen". Hence our name.)

An average spring runoff is 115,000 cfs for the Thompson and 350,000 cfs for the Fraser - most whitewater rafting rivers in North America flow between 1000 to 5000 cfs - this is an enormous amount of water!

Because of the rivers' big volumes, we are able to offer you two raft styles - paddle and power (motorized) rafts - an option very few rivers can present. We pioneered both raft styles on the Thompson and Fraser and are experts in both kinds.

Which style is "better?" Neither - they simply are different. As a general rule we recommend power rafts for most first time river runners on the Thompson. They are our only option for the Fraser and for high water on the Thompson because they provide us with great stability, buoyancy, and maneuverability.

Power Rafting

These are pontoon rafts similar to the kind used on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. They consist of two large inflatable tubes joined together by a flexible metal frame and wooden floor. They are powered by an outboard motor.

For power rafting no experience is necessary and you need not be a swimmer. Your role isn't strenuous but you are required to hang on to a hand line as the raft bucks wildly in the big rapids. A guide controls the raft with an outboard motor (you drift quietly in the calms.) Power rafting is wetter than paddle, and a few rapids can be run more than once.

• Minimum age: 10 years.
• Raft size - capacity: 22' - 16 guests; 28' - 22 guests.

Paddle Rafting

Paddle rafts are smaller than power rafts and you are required to work as a team in order to negotiate the rapids. Your guide calls paddle instructions and you assist the team by paddling together. The ride is "smoother" compared to power rafting, but generally results in a strong sense of accomplishment.

Swimming ability is essential. We reserve the right to transfer your booking from paddle to power rafting if required because of water conditions.

• Minimum age: 12 years
• Raft sizes: 18' & 20'
• Capacity: 10-12 guests