Golden’s whitewater rafters hold their breath for river access resolution

An ongoing dispute over access to the lower Kicking Horse canyon has prompted the provincial government to contribute $45,000 towards a study looking for a long-term solution.

“We’re committed to helping Golden find the solutions necessary to help them maximize the benefits that the rafting industry provides,” said Shirley Bond, B.C.’s minister of jobs, tourism and skills training.

Earlier this year, officials with CP Rail restricted all access to the lone ground entrance to the canyon citing safety concerns. The foot path, which had been used by whitewater guides and visitors transporting rafts, traversed active railway tracks.

After discussions between members of the local whitewater community and CP Rail officials, the rail company announced on April 22 that access to the river would be reinstated in time for the unofficial start of the rafting season, the May long weekend.

The agreement remained in place for weeks until rafters located a locked gate blocking their path to the river. CP said the locked gate was a response to the B.C. government’s change of stance on the issue.

"We are working closely with Golden and local partners to conduct a feasibility study looking into how to allow safe access to the lower canyon of the Kicking Horse River without crossing CP Rail tracks,” said Todd Stone, B.C.’s minister of transportation and infrastructure. “The B.C. government recognizes the value of river rafting tourism to Golden and the surrounding region, and that's why we are working quickly to resolve this issue and help people gain safe access to the lower canyon."

With an uncertain timeline for the resumption of river access, two of Golden’s rafting companies have taken to the sky to enter the canyon.

"We're really excited to be able to offer a new adventure that includes a thrilling helicopter tour of the canyon to access the lower portion of the river,” said Ryan Johannesen, owner of Glacier Raft Company.

“Our main focus now is to look towards long-term solutions that will allow our customers the very best of the Kicking Horse River.”

Local government, members of the provincial government and the rafting community will select a consultant to conduct a feasibility study and identify a safe entry point that will allow rafters to enter the lower canyon.