Kicking Horse Rafting
For over 40 years, Glacier Raft Company has been sharing the excitement of the Kicking Horse River with adventurers from around the world.
What started in 1982 with a single raft has grown into one of British Columbia's most trusted rafting companies. Thousands of guests have joined us on the river, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
To us, rafting is about more than the rapids. It's about incredible scenery, great people, shared laughter, and the thrill of working together as a team.
Whether it's your first trip or your fifteenth, we're here to make your adventure safe, exciting, and memorable.
Who We Are
Glacier Raft Company is Golden's original rafting company, proudly operating on the Kicking Horse River since 1982.
Our story began when experienced raft guide Geoff Freer travelled north from Montana. After discovering the incredible Kicking Horse River, he began bringing a small team of guides north on weekends, hauling their own rafts and equipment. Commercial rafting in Golden was born.
Our name comes from the Glacier Raft Company in Montana, where Geoff worked. While the Montana company still operates today, we are now completely independent businesses with a shared history.
Our Journey
1982
Glacier Raft Company is founded, becoming the first commercial rafting company on the Kicking Horse River.
1993
Long-time Golden residents, the Murphy family, purchase Glacier and continue growing the business.
2010
Veteran raft guide Ryan and his partner Carmen take ownership. Over the next 16 years, they expand Glacier while continually improving the guest experience.
2017
Glacier moves from its original downtown warehouse to McLaren Lodge and acquires Wet n Wild Adventures, creating a larger riverside rafting base.
2019
Glacier acquires Alpine Rafting, bringing together the experience and traditions of Golden's three rafting companies.
2026
A new chapter begins under the leadership of Jan, an experienced raft guide and manager. The company also relocates to its new rafting base, conveniently located beside Highway 1 with spectacular mountain views and easy access for guests.
From Then to Now
Rafting has changed a lot over the years.
In the early days, guests paddled through icy 3°C water without wetsuits or helmets. The rafts weren't self-bailing either, so someone had to bucket water out between rapids!
Today, modern equipment and decades of experience make rafting safer and more comfortable, while the adventure remains just as exciting.
What Hasn't Changed
Although our company has grown, our values haven't.
Safety comes first. Every trip is guided by experienced professionals who love sharing this incredible river.
We believe the little things make a big difference—friendly faces, genuine hospitality, and creating an experience you'll remember long after you've left Golden.
Whether you're joining us for the first time or returning for another adventure, we'll welcome you like family.
We can't wait to share the Kicking Horse River with you.
See the Adventure
One of our guests enjoyed their rafting trip so much they created a video to remember the experience. Watch them and their friends take on the rapids and see why Glacier has been creating unforgettable adventures for more than 40 years.
Kicking Horse Rafting Video - Courtesy of a Guest
With over 1500 five star reviews, you can also get a real sense of what people love about us. Here is a small sneak peak.
Check out some of our other reviews if you'd like on TripAdvisor or Google Reviews
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