Thompson River: Spences Bridge to Lytton (Class 3+)

Best: August - September

2008 Rafting vacation prices

Length: 34 km, 4-5 hrs
Dates: Aug 15 to Sept 20
Times: 10:45 am daily

Raft with REO on the Thompson River, one of the most popular river rafting runs in Canada. Be one of the many people to raft the Thompson this summer and enjoy the huge rollercoaster waves, desert canyon scenery, hot climate and warm water for swimming.

The best time to raft the legendary Thompson is August and September. As the river level drops in the hot summer heat, the waves become bigger and more defined, perfect for a paddle rafting adventure.

The prime whitewater action starts about halfway between Spences Bridge and Lytton BC. The lower Thompson features 15 solid Class 3 & 4 whitewater rapids starting with the Frog rapid, a turbulent section that squeezes around a house-sized rock that looks like a frog. Downstream, the river crashes through several big rapids including the Devils Kitchen, Witch's Cauldron, Cutting Board, and Jaws.

The river mellows then picks up again at the Green Wave and offers 10 more Class 2 & 3 rapids on the way to the junction of the Fraser and Thompson rivers at Lytton BC, Canada.

REO uses paddle rafts with 8-9 paddlers while many companies take motor rafts with up to 22 passengers in one raft. Smaller rafts are more responsive and provide an exhilarating ride. We can also offer oar rafts with paddle assist, ideal for families and those that would rather enjoy the scenery.

Best rapids: Frog, Devils Kitchen, Jaws, Green Wave, Witch's Cauldron & 11 more fun rapids. Our minimum age is 10 years. The Thompson is 3 hours drive from Vancouver, Kelowna & Whistler British Columbia and Bellingham, Washington, USA (Seattle is 4.5 hours).