Fraser River

Overview

Introduction

From its source in Mount Robson Provincial Park, just east of the border with Alberta, the Fraser River snakes 850 mi/1,365 km and empties into the Pacific Ocean near Vancouver. It is one of the longest unharnessed rivers in the world and provides exciting white-water rafting during the summer. Trips can be booked out of Vancouver as day or overnight outings. The river flows along the Trans Canada Highway, so if you're driving, you'll be able to see the spectacular Hell's Gate Canyon, located 100 mi/160 km east of Vancouver. This deep gorge narrows to just 110 ft/35 m across, and the river blasts through with great force. For a good view, take the aerial tramway that descends 500 ft/150 m from the Trans Canada Highway to the viewing area. Be sure to see the fish ladder, built so that spawning salmon can swim upriver. You may even see some brave souls shooting the canyon rapids. En route, consider a stop in Hope to see the Othello train tunnels once used by the Kettle Valley Railway.

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