Wells Gray Park is a wild and untouched wilderness area of over 540,000 hectares. It is currently being considered for "World Heritage Status" with UNESCO because of the unique and wild volcanic features this park has to offer. The River alone is something to behold. It is the drainage basin for the entire area of Wells Gray. Described by Richard C. Bocking in his book the "Mighty River" as one of the most dynamic tributaries of the entire Fraser River system. Clearwater River is the culmination of an incredible concentration of waterfalls, rapids, and chutes, probably the greatest in BC.
The trip starts at the beginning of Granite Canyon on gentle class 2 whitewater. Glance up as you quietly drift by towering canyons and cliffs of ancient lava left over from a time when the Clearwater Valley was ripe with active volcanic activity. The guides will do their utmost to fill your head with as much information as possible about safety as you enter the start of the middle canyon. This section is described as Mother Nature’s natural roller coaster. At the halfway mark of the trip you will come up against an unrunable section of river called the Kettle which a mandatory portage of the boats is necessary. All the boats and equipment are taken around by trailer but you have the opportunity for an easy 15 minute hike along the canyon to see why we portage. This 500 meter section is called Granite Canyon and is a stunningly beautiful area of Wells Gray Park seldom seen. At the end of the trail you meet up with the boats and start the final leg down the lower canyon. This is the most consistent section of whitewater on the Clearwater River. With rapids like “The Wall”, “Tsunami” and “Buckaroo” it is the perfect ending to your 4 hour adventure. As you drift down towards the bottom of the canyon those with a healthy sense of adventure will have the opportunity to see what it’s like to body surf in a class 2 rapid.
Ready Set Go is a summer tradition for tourists and locals alike. It is a unique experience, unmatched in British Columbia for over 30 years.