CLEARWATER RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Clearwater in a Rush: 3.5 Hours of Class I–IV Whitewater, Waterfalls and Cliff Jumps
A 3.5-hour, 7 km guided run on the Clearwater River that threads named rapids and a waterfall side hike — this guide tells you what to expect and how to prepare.
Clearwater in a Rush: 3.5 Hours of Class I–IV Whitewater, Waterfalls and Cliff Jumps.
This 3.5-hour Clearwater rafting run delivers a compact, adrenaline-packed half day on a 7 km stretch of river, running class I through IV rapids and hitting notorious drops such as The Wall, Buckaroo and Pink Mountain. The itinerary can include a short side hike to Candle Creek waterfall for a swim or cliff jump, though waterfall hikes and jumps depend on water levels and guides’ discretion. Two departures run daily, making it easy to pair the trip with exploring nearby Wells Gray Park; note that some restrictions apply to participants.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Class I–IV whitewater and named drops
The run packs a full range of whitewater — from cruisy riffles to powerful class IV rapids — and takes you through Clearwater’s best-known drops, including The Wall, Buckaroo and Pink Mountain.
Candle Creek waterfall, swims and cliff jumps
A short side hike can deliver you to Candle Creek waterfall where guides may offer swimming, jumping through the falls or cliff jumping — activities that are conditional on water levels and guide discretion.
A compact half‑day run with flexible timing
The 3.5-hour trip covers approximately 7 km of river and runs twice daily, making it a concentrated outing that fits neatly into a day of exploring Wells Gray Park.
What the day feels like
What the 3.5 hours feel like
From the safety briefing you push off into a succession of technical rapids and quieter stretches that let the river breathe. Expect moments of flatwater reprieve and explosive, team-driven drops; between rapids there’s time to drink in the forested banks and, where conditions allow, step ashore for a short hike to Candle Creek’s cascade and a chance to swim or jump. The outing’s compact nature concentrates the excitement into a single, paced 3 hour 30 minute run covering roughly 7 km.
THE RAPIDS
Class I–IV whitewater and named drops
The run packs a full range of whitewater — from cruisy riffles to powerful class IV rapids — and takes you through Clearwater’s best-known drops, including The Wall, Buckaroo and Pink Mountain.
THE WATER
Candle Creek waterfall, swims and cliff jumps
A short side hike can deliver you to Candle Creek waterfall where guides may offer swimming, jumping through the falls or cliff jumping — activities that are conditional on water levels and guide discretion.
THE ITINERARY
A compact half‑day run with flexible timing
The 3.5-hour trip covers approximately 7 km of river and runs twice daily, making it a concentrated outing that fits neatly into a day of exploring Wells Gray Park.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Arrive 30 minutes before departure to sign waivers and get fitted for gear; there are two departures daily so the trip can be slotted as a half‑day outing.
Wear a bathing suit/shorts under your wetsuit and bring a towel. No flip‑flops, Crocs or sandals — bring lace‑up shoes you don’t mind getting wet or borrow operator shoes. Bring sunscreen, bug spray as needed, and a secure strap for glasses if you need them at all times.
You may bring a waterproof camera if it’s secured to your body; the operator suggests leaving valuables behind.
All core gear is provided: wetsuit, helmet, splash jacket, fleece, shoes and lifejacket.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
This rafting excursion runs for 3 hours 30 minutes.
What are the age limits?
The operator notes participant age restrictions apply; consult the operator for current minimum age and any conditions that may apply to specific guests.
When should I arrive?
Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to complete waivers and be fitted for gear.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear a bathing suit or shorts under your wetsuit and bring a towel. No flip‑flops, Crocs or sandals — bring lace‑up shoes or borrow the operator’s. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a strap for glasses if required.
Is cliff jumping or the waterfall hike guaranteed?
No — hikes to the waterfall and cliff jumping are subject to change depending on water levels and the guides’ discretion.
What does the operator provide?
The operator provides all core safety and insulating gear, including a wetsuit, helmet, splash jacket, fleece, shoes and a lifejacket.
What is the minimum group size to run the trip?
The operator requires a minimum of six guests to run a rafting trip; smaller groups may be combined to meet the minimum requirement.