Float 80 km of the Thompson River from Ashcroft to Lytton on a guided 2-day rafting trip that ends with an overnight on a private five‑acre island. Expect basalt canyons, playful rapids, gourmet camp meals and a starlit campfire.
Float 80 km of the Thompson River from Ashcroft to Lytton on a guided 2-day rafting trip that ends with an overnight on a private five‑acre island. Expect basalt canyons, playful rapids, gourmet camp meals and a starlit campfire.
You push off at Ashcroft and the river takes over—cold current nudging the raft into a channel framed by sheer, dark lava walls. Spray hisses at the hull, gulls wheel above, and every rapid reads like a dare. By late afternoon the group threads a narrow braid and drops anchor at Fantasy Island, a five-acre riverstead where guides lay out a gourmet barbecue and a campfire sparks under an open sky.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hyak Wilderness Adventures Inc. · Lytton, British Columbia
You push off at Ashcroft and the river takes over—cold current nudging the raft into a channel framed by sheer, dark lava walls. Spray hisses at the hull, gulls wheel above, and every rapid reads like a dare. By late afternoon the group threads a narrow braid and drops anchor at Fantasy Island, a five-acre riverstead where guides lay out a gourmet barbecue and a campfire sparks under an open sky.
The Thompson River here slices through layered basalt from past volcanic flows; Black Canyon’s cliffs are the visible record of ancient eruptions and the river’s patient carving. This stretch runs through Nlaka'pamux territory and small towns like Spences Bridge and Lytton—places shaped by river transport, ranching, and railway history. Big Horn sheep graze near the bluffs; eagles patrol thermals where warm air meets cool water.
Practical guide: the trip runs weekends from mid-July through Labour Day, covering ~80 km (50 mi) over two days. Expect a mix of flatwater float and class II–IV rapids (Frog, Devil’s Kitchen, 18th Hole) with guided paddle rafting and optional inflatable kayaks. Guides supply helmets, PFDs, wetsuits, and meals listed in the itinerary; you must bring your own camping gear. Minimum age and weight rules apply; operators limit group sizes for safety.
Onshore, follow Leave No Trace—pack out trash and use provided toilet facilities. Footwear with toe protection and a secure fit keeps you comfortable in and out of the raft. Hydrate early in the day; rapids come fast after long, calm runs.
The trip balances the thrill of whitewater with an easy overnight camp, offering both river-running adrenaline and a quiet night under stars.
moderate.
2 days.
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to sit and brace in a raft, board an inflatable kayak, and carry a small daypack to camp.
No—trips are guided and suitable for a range of abilities; basic paddling instruction is provided and guides manage the raft through major rapids.
No—participants must bring their own tent, sleeping pad, and personal camping items; meals and group camping equipment are provided by guides.
Minimum age is 10 years and minimum weight is 85 lbs; these are operator rules for safety and flotation requirements.
Alcohol is permitted for those of legal drinking age but glass is not allowed—cans only; guides may refuse service to intoxicated guests.
The Thompson corridor has long been a travel and trade route for Indigenous communities, later becoming a transport artery for settlers and railways; the river’s channel reflects both geological upheaval and human passage.
Operators follow low-impact camping practices; always pack out waste and avoid disturbing riverbanks and wildlife—river corridors here are sensitive and prone to erosion.
Hyak Wilderness Adventures Inc. operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.


You push off at Ashcroft and the river takes over—cold current nudging the raft into a channel framed by sheer, dark lava walls. Spray hisses at the hull, gulls wheel above, and every rapid reads like a dare. By late afternoon the group threads a narrow braid and drops anchor at Fantasy Island, a five-acre riverstead where guides lay out a gourmet barbecue and a campfire sparks under an open sky.
You push off at Ashcroft and the river takes over—cold current nudging the raft into a channel framed by sheer, dark lava walls. Spray hisses at the hull, gulls wheel above, and every rapid reads like a dare. By late afternoon the group threads a narrow braid and drops anchor at Fantasy Island, a five-acre riverstead where guides lay out a gourmet barbecue and a campfire sparks under an open sky.
The Thompson River here slices through layered basalt from past volcanic flows; Black Canyon’s cliffs are the visible record of ancient eruptions and the river’s patient carving. This stretch runs through Nlaka'pamux territory and small towns like Spences Bridge and Lytton—places shaped by river transport, ranching, and railway history. Big Horn sheep graze near the bluffs; eagles patrol thermals where warm air meets cool water.
Practical guide: the trip runs weekends from mid-July through Labour Day, covering ~80 km (50 mi) over two days. Expect a mix of flatwater float and class II–IV rapids (Frog, Devil’s Kitchen, 18th Hole) with guided paddle rafting and optional inflatable kayaks. Guides supply helmets, PFDs, wetsuits, and meals listed in the itinerary; you must bring your own camping gear. Minimum age and weight rules apply; operators limit group sizes for safety.
Onshore, follow Leave No Trace—pack out trash and use provided toilet facilities. Footwear with toe protection and a secure fit keeps you comfortable in and out of the raft. Hydrate early in the day; rapids come fast after long, calm runs.
The trip balances the thrill of whitewater with an easy overnight camp, offering both river-running adrenaline and a quiet night under stars.