Rafting Whistler’s White Waters
By the time our raft nosedived into the third wave, drenching us all in the refreshing spray of Green River, I knew our guide had it in for us. “Geeeeet down!” yelled our guide, a crafty smile on his face. As we dove toward each huge wall of white water, our sneaky guide ordered us to tuck into the bottom of the boat, speeding up the craft and sending us hurtling towards a certain sopping. As we’d crest over the top, we’d erupt into screams of joy before smashing down and doing it all over again.
But, no matter — this crazy experience of white-water rafting was what we were here for, and the infectious enthusiasm of our Québecois guide, Joel, gave us all the instruction and confidence we needed to send the rapids. And not all was insanity: the adventure began with a training paddle across Green Lake, with amazing views of Wedge Mountain and an obligatory dunk into the cooling waters.
There are many things to be had in Whistler, but, by far, whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting ways to experience the adrenaline rush of its natural splendour. During the dog days of summer, when even sitting in the shade is a sweltering affair, there is nothing quite like running a glacier-fed river in a rubber raft, bucking waves and clacking paddles. Finishing each rapid floods you with that unique feeling of collective achievement, as you and your compadres learn to paddle, lean and duck in unison.
Wedge Rafting takes care of all the details. Choose from three levels — a family-level paddle on the River of Golden Dreams; an exciting yet comfortably moderate white-water excursion down Green River; or an all-day adventure stomping the high-class rapids of the Elaho-Squamish rivers. Wetsuits, booties, helmets and a personal flotation device are all provided, along with transportation. The guides go out of their way to make you feel comfortable, and a professional photographer from Coast Mountain tags along to capture the grins. So, don’t hesitate — get dunked! wedgerafting.com