White-Water Rafting

Charging down a mountain river in a rubber raft is one of the most popular adventures for many people visiting Canada's western mountains. Trips range from daylong excursions, which demand little of a participant other than sitting tight, to long-distance trips through remote backcountry. Risk doesn't correspond to length of trip: Individual rapids and water conditions can make even a short trip a real adventure. You should be comfortable in water, and a good swimmer if you're floating an adventurous river.

Jasper National Park is a major center for short yet thrilling white-water trips. Another excellent destination is the Kicking Horse River near Golden, British Columbia.