What an absolute blast!!
As newbies in the whitewater rafting realm, my husband and I booked a half day adventure with Interior Whitewater Expeditions (IWE). Located in Clearwater, BC, this expedition took us to the rapids of the Clearwater River in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Advertised as an exhilarating 12.5 km trip, we found our time on the river to be equal parts education, thrill ride, and sightseeing tour. It was a perfect introduction to this activity and the passion the guides had for this sport rubbed off on our entire crew.
IWE was very easy to locate in town. We opted for a 10AM start time, arrived early for check in, filled out the required forms, and met the rest of the crew we were to be paired with. Our day started with a safety briefing after which we were set up with wetsuits, fleece jackets, and splash jackets (early June at the time of our trip). Bring shoes you don't mind getting soaked through (though they do have a wide variety of second hands that you can swap out for if you so choose). Next up was an adventurous bus ride to the start of our whitewater rafting route. Took a short trek to view some Class V rapids and learn a bit about the history associated with their power and why they wouldn't be a part of our trip. Then it was back to the rafts to gear up, learn all the commands we'd be acting on during our time on the river, and get some practice in. My husband and I were chosen to sit up front and what a thrill it was.
I was a bit nervous at first, learning what to do in all the "worst case scenarios" but it was best to be over prepared. We knew what to do if the raft flipped or if someone went overboard. In no time, we were seated in the rafts paddling into the rapids. This trip started with the biggest rapids first before they mellowed out. Just wow! The mosh pit, the wall... our guide walked us through every step, shouting out commands, helping correct our technique, so that all could enjoy the splash of the waves and the crisp waters. I thought I'd be chilled through given the time of year but the waters weren't as cold as I thought they'd be! Mid-way through we made our way to shore for a bit of a break and another short trek to a waterfall we were able to walk behind. So powerful and a thrill to traverse.
I'll admit, I was tired by the end of our adventure... but the good kind. It is certainly a very active activity. At the end of the route, all members of the crew act as a team to load the rafts onto the trailer and pack the gear up. Lots of staff people on the river with us in other rafts... it was clear their number one focus was our safety and preparedness.
On reaching the main office again, there are showers available and washrooms for changing out of any wet clothing. Throughout the trip, one of the staff took photos so there was a fun slideshow to watch at the end of our time on the river. The photos were available for purchase at a reasonable price (and if you leave a review of your experience, there's a discount available). I cherish these... so many natural smiles and expressions of awe. Given to you on a USB to take home.
What a great outfit. read more