Elk River

The Elk River is a 220-kilometer-long river located near Fernie, BC. It is a tributary of the Kootenay River, and falls within the basin of the Columbia River. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the quaint community of Fernie offers something for every kind of paddler from mellow floats through the heart of the city to exciting class IV whitewater. And the best part is that they can all be found on the same river. The Elk River flows north to south and the two most popular Class I sections go from Sparwood to Hosmer and Hosmer to Fernie. A lower section of the river that’s accessed south of the small town of Elko, 30 kilometres south of Fernie, is popular with local whitewater rafting outfitters. Gord Bunston is a guide, instructor, and the owner of River City Repair in Fernie and knows the Elk well. He says there are many options for the novice and intermediate paddlers on the Elk and there’s even a three- or four-day Class 1-2 self-guided float people can do that starts off Line Creek Mine Road, 55 kilometres north of Fernie. From there paddlers can enjoy a meandering river tour and stop in various towns along the way, staying at such places as the Elk River Lodge, Brooks Creek Ranch, and Ghost Rider Lodge. The final take-out would be in the community of Elko. If you’re looking for dramatic scenery, this is the area to paddle. The Elk River flows past the base of multiple peaks including Mt. Hosmer, Mt. Broadwood, and Mt Bisaro, the site of Canada’s deepest cave. It also offers views of lush, forested riverbanks, and, depending on the season, plenty of wildlife sightings. Migratory birds stop here during the Spring and Fall months and large animals such as deer and black bears are plentiful during those times.