Each of the six rivers rafted commercially in the Canadian Rockies offers a unique thrill.

The Kananaskis: There used to be only riffles on the Kananaskis, so whitewater enthusiasts moved rocks to create class III rapids and a slalom course. Thanks to upriver dam controls, its class I to III rapids are always consistent. The highlight of the river is the stretch from the ominously named Widow Maker area to Canoe Meadows, where the rapids swirl swiftly offering excitement and some splashes. But don't fear-the Kananaskis is a family-friendly ride.

The Bow: Put in below thunderous Bow Falls for a mellow glide down a pretty stretch of river beside the Banff Springs Golf Course, hoodoos, Mount Rundle and Tunnel Mountain. One hour trips allow those on a tight schedule the opportunity to relax outdoors. But not all of the Bow River is quiet-the class III to IV stretch below Seebe east of Canmore includes an impressive 60 m (200 ft) high canyon and big whitewater with a drop over Horseshoe Falls. This was the setting for movies such as Legends of the Fall and Open Range.

The Kicking Horse: In 1858, James Hector was knocked cold by a feisty horse and presumed dead. But Sir James recovered, and his men named the nearby river and pass after his misadventure. Today class I to IV Kicking Horse River, west of Lake Louise, is one of western Canada's most popular and turbulent rafting rivers. Rafters thrill at class IV Portage and Shot Gun Rapids, while the Lower Canyon provides an almost continuous adrenalin-charged rush. Mountain goats often perch on Goat Rapid cliffs.
The Athabasca: Rafting the Athabasca River south of Jasper is a scenic step back in time-First Nations and fur traders used the river as a transportation corridor for centuries. Class I and II rapids and outstanding mountain views add to this Heritage River experience. Evening trips are best for spotting wildlife on shore.

The Sunwapta: The Sunwapta River is a narrow and speedy class III mountain stream. South of Jasper, the section run offers 10 km (6 mi) of magnificent scenery, almost all of it accompanied by foaming whitewater. The best time to raft the Sunwapta is after a few days of hot summer weather-the upstream glacier melt ensures a challenging, fun and thrilling ride.

The Fraser: The mighty Fraser River runs 1370 km (850 mi) to the Pacific Ocean from its headwaters west of Jasper. Upper river rafters are treated to views of majestic Mt Robson, highest peak in Canada's Rockies. Big rolling waves offer a rollercoaster ride, and rafts come within metres of Rearguard Falls for maximum excitement before the short portage. In late summer/early fall, schools of bright red salmon struggle up rapids to spawn.