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The vast and varied landscape of Alberta's Rockies is an ideal setting for a rafting adventure, regardless of experience. While being carried downstream, travellers experience a unique vantage point from which to view the lofty, snow-capped peaks, deep canyons and dense pine forests. Floating gently down a river is a peaceful activity for families, novices can get a kick out of light rapids, and white-water rafting gives enthusiasts the thrill of adventure.
NAVIGATING THE COOL WATERWAYS OF ALBERTA'S ROCKIES
Rafting trips in the northern part of the Rockies often depart from Jasper, Hinton and Grande Cache along the Athabasca, Fraser and Sunwapta rivers. In the southern Rockies, trips typically start in Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise, navigating the Bow, Elbow and Kananaskis rivers downstream, sometimes as far as Calgary.
The waterways that crisscross Alberta's Rocky Mountains are almost exclusively glacial fed. The runoff from long, snowy winters melts into high-altitude lakes, which in turn feed large rivers. These rivers are channelled through deep canyons and grottos carved out by millions of years of erosion. As the cool water begins to wind and twist through the rocky passages, speed increases and pressure builds, creating churning white-water rapids. These areas, close to the source, are ideal for those interested in experiencing high-speed rapids but those looking for a quieter experience should look farther downstream, where rivers widen and waters smooth out.
AN EXHILERATING EXPERIENCE FOR BEGINNERS
A rafting trip may sound daunting to first timers, especially when seeing adverts featuring pictures of people in the midst of a wild ride, but rest assured this is a safe experience that can be enjoyed by anyone. Rocky Mountain River Guides offers family adventures catering to visitors as young as six years old.
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