Horseshoe Rapids Recreation Site - # 45

Access

Drive north on Hwy 93 from Radium through Kootenay National Park to Settlers Road.  After 12 kilometers continue straight and travel the Raven’s Head Road to km 19.  Turn left for the short, final approach to the site.  Alternate southern access from Canal Flats is possible along the Kootenay Forest Service Road (stay left at the 32.7 km mark).  The road is accessible by car.

Characteristics and Description

Whitewater paddlers often use this quiet, out of the way campsite on the west bank of the Kootenay River.  The 2 sites can accommodate tents and truck campers, but not trailers as there is little turnaround area.

To paddlers the Horseshoe Rapids are classified as medium difficulty Class III rapids located along a scenic reach of the Kootenay River.  Consult “ A Paddler’s Guide to the Vermillion-Kootenay River” available at the District office, local Visitor Info Centres and Kootenay National Park.  At high water a one metre high standing wave can amuse kayakers for hours.

Visit nearby Natural Bridge/Cross River Recreation Trails at km 16 on the Cross River Forest Service Road for a short hike to a scenic canyon and waterfall.

See Natural Bridge / Cross River Recreation Trails

Fishing

Slower portions of the river can be productive when water is clear.