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Answers to Your Questions

  1. Why should we raft with Alpine?
  2. When is the best time to go rafting?
  3. How many people do I need to get a group discount?
  4. What is the best trip for our group?
  5. What is the age limit?

 

  1. Why should we raft with Alpine?
    • Longest Rafting Trip! We begin our day in Yoho National Park, and raft 4 extra kilometres than other companies. We offer the longest day on the River of all local River Outfitters.
    • Great Gear on the Water! We outfit you from head to toe. From our Gore Tex SprayJackets, to Neoprene Boots, Gloves, and Canadian made wetsuits, we’ve put a lot of thought into your comfort. Our eye popping candy red rafts  & splash jackets are cutting edge and make for amazing rafting shots!
    • Our Lunch is Great! Hot & Cold Drinks, Fruit & Veggie Platters, Alberta Buffalo Burgers, Free Range Chicken Breast Burgers Potato Wedges, Salad, and Cookies for Desert. Want a double cheeseburger or seconds? Help yourself!
    • We have snacks! Between the Middle and Lower Canyon, we offer our clients a snack of Cookies, Fruit and Water to keep you stoked!
    • Our Team Rocks! It’s true, we’re not afraid to say it – you’ll have a great day out on the water with our guides and staff team.
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  2. When is the best time to go rafting?

    Whatever time of year you decide to raft, you will have a great time! But here is some help...

    • May: Great early season rafting, slightly cooler temps, great water levels, early season discounts.  Medium to High Water very likely.
    • June: Warmer temps, great water levels, high water.
    • July: Hot summer fun on the river, closer to the end of July, great time to raft the Lower Canyon.
    • August: Emerald coloured water, clear days, Lower Canyon open, Class 3 & 4 thrills are still an option
    • September: Emerald coloured water, clear days, Lower Canyon open, Class 3 & 4 thrills are still an option
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  3. How many people do I need to get a group discount?

    Groups of 6 of more receive a group discount. Let us send you a personalized quote for your group! Send us the details: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  and we'll send you a quote

  4. When should I book?  You should book as soon as you know when you would like to raft. Most days of the summer fill up quickly and book out completely. Our cancellation policy is 72 hours prior to trip departure, so if you need to cancel it's not a big deal. You can also switch trips/dates without penalty 72 hours prior to trip departureWe recommend making a reservation as soon as you have a date in mind. Why not check availability now for some dates you may have in mind?

  5. How many people do I need to round up to go rafting? You actually don't need to round up too many people. If you are travelling alone, or in pairs, you can always book a trip! There is no minimum booking requirement. Our rafts hold between 8 and 10 people, so you will be partered up with other rafters.

  1. What is the best trip for our group?

    It really depends. Here is some help....

    • HAVE NEVER RAFTED BEFORE, we recommend all of our trips. They are all suited to first-timers!
    • ARE A FAMILY WITH YOUNG CHILDREN, we recommend the Family Whitewater, ages 4 & up!
    • ARE ON A STAG/STAGETTE, we recommend the Ultimate Whitewater or the Kicking Horse River Challenge
    • WANT THE MOST COMPLETE RIVER EXPERIENCE, we recommend the Kicking Horse River Challenge.  All three sections of the Kicking Horse River, lunch, and a snack, this is one awesome trip. Take on the Challenge!
    • WANT AN ‘ALL AROUND’ RIVER EXPERIENCE, we recommend the Kicking Horse Classic, a great balance of the Upper and Middle Canyons, this is our most Classic River Experience.
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  2. What is the age limit?

    There is no age limit to rafting. No experience is required. Folks with medical conditions should consult their doctor first.   Upper Canyon: The Upper Canyon is suitable for ages 4 & up  Middle Canyon: the Middle Canyon is suitable for those who are 4'11''/88 lbs. The Lower Canyon is suitable for those ages 16 & up. If unsure, please ask us

  3. What should I wear?
    You should come to our office the morning of your trip with your bathing suit on underneath your clothes, preferably. When we get to the river, we distribute river gear and give instructions for putting it on. There are changerooms at the start of the trip. The clothing you take off will be placed back into the bus where you can get access to it at the end of the trip.

 

  1. What questions should I ask when selecting a rafting company?

If you're researching a Whitewater Rafting Company to raft with, here are some questions to ask:

  • How long has the company been in business? The longer an outfitter has been in business, the more honed the river experience will be.
  • What condition is their river gear in? Look for a company that replaces the River Gear you will be wearing all day on an annual basis.  Tears, holes, and faded equipment is not acceptable for your day out on the water.
  • How many rivers do they run? When companies run multiple rivers, often their guides are not adequately trained for the river they will be running. Look for companies running one or a couple rivers.  That way, you know the guides are experienced on that stretch of water
  • What is the minimum age of their guides?  This says a lot about the experience level of guide. Look for companies with Guides that are at minimum in their late twenties/early thirties. This will likely ensure adequate life experience and river skills.


What about tipping?
As with any service based industry, tips are always appreciated. If your day on the water exceeded your expectations, feel free to tip your guide, it is always appreciated.

What happens if it rains?
Whitewater rafting is fun in any type of weather, provided you are properly dressed. We gear you up extremely well for your day out on the water so we can all have a great day! We raft daily rain or shine, and you’ll get wet either way.

What if I can’t swim?
All rafters are equipped with whitewater lifejackets chosen for their high floatation. Therefore, we do not require participants to know how to swim. The best advice we give  to swimmers and non-swimmers is to pay close attention to the safety briefing. Please inform your guide if you have any concerns regarding your swimming

What about alcohol?
Drinking is not permitted before or while you are rafting. Alcohol and wild rapids dont' mix! Anyone who is drinking or appears to be intoxicated before the trip will be denied participation. Sorry, but refunds or alternate dates will not be given. There will be reason to celebrate your day on the water after we return to our office

What do you sell at your office?
If you have forgotten something, chances are we sell it. We have towels, fleece sweaters, sunglass retaining straps, sunscreen, waterproof cameras and lots of great schwag, including freebies! We also have photos for sale from your trip at the end of the day.