Join Wild Blue Yonder’s guided ferry and hiking tour for an unforgettable journey across the Smoky River to Mt Mawdsley. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking unique river and trail experiences in Alberta’s wilderness.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, comfortable with walking on uneven terrain and working together during rafting.
Wildlife
History
The Smoky River area has been a traditional travel route for indigenous groups and played a role in early Canadian fur trading.
Conservation
Wild Blue Yonder emphasizes low-impact practices to preserve the delicate river ecosystem and surrounding wilderness.
Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures - Grande Cache
Join Wild Blue Yonder’s guided ferry and hiking tour for an unforgettable journey across the Smoky River to Mt Mawdsley. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking unique river and trail experiences in Alberta’s wilderness.
Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures - Grande Cache operates guided rafting trips from Grande Cache, Alberta, offering river experiences focused on safety, local knowledge, and scenic access to Willmore Wilderness Park. The company runs accessible family-friendly whitewater outings and specialized river ferry services for hikers. Each trip uses trained guides who lead groups through canyon scenery and river channels, emphasizing clear briefing, proper equipment, and group teamwork.
Trips include Canyon Whitewater, a four-hour family-appropriate excursion through the Sulphur Gates and canyon sections with moderate rapids and an end-of-ride water fight, and the Smoky River - Hiker Ferry service, a guided river crossing and drop-off that provides access to Mt Mawdsley and remote trailheads. Both experiences depart from Grande Cache and navigate sections of the Sulphur Gates and Smoky River channels.
Guests can expect organized logistics, including guided instruction, river safety practices, and scenic river transport. The operator focuses on making river access straightforward for hikers and enjoyable for beginners and families seeking a scenic outdoor adventure. Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures - Grande Cache partners with local knowledge of the region to run trips that showcase canyon landscapes and the Sulphur Gates while assisting hikers to reach trail access points. This approach combines recreation and practical river travel, making the company a reliable option for visitors wanting guided rafting and river ferrying in the Grande Cache area. Bookings originate in Grande Cache, Alberta locally.
Base Location
Grande Cache, AB
Start point for all trips
Tours Offered
2 Trips
Family and hiker-focused rafting options
Guided Trips
Guided Rafting
Trained guides lead each trip
Access Points
Sulphur Gates & Smoky River
Trips reach canyon and river channels
Book Canyon Whitewater or the Smoky River - Hiker Ferry to experience the Sulphur Gates and practical river access for Mt Mawdsley.
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The terrain around Mt Mawdsley includes rocky and uneven paths, so proper footwear is essential.
Bring a waterproof bag for valuables
Water crossings can splash your gear, so keep electronics and important items protected.
Follow your guide’s safety instructions during rafting
Team coordination is vital to ensure a smooth and safe river crossing on the ferry.
Carry insect repellent in warmer months
Bugs can be active near riverbanks during summer and fall, so plan accordingly.
Waterproof hiking boots
Offers good traction and keeps your feet dry during river crossings and trail hikes.
Layered clothing
Allows adaptation to changing temperatures along the river and the mountain trails.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects commonly found near water during warm months.
summer
Dry bag
Protects personal belongings from splashes and unexpected wet conditions.