By Peter Biggs

MY 15 year old son and I arrived at the Hyak base in downtown Chilliwack somewhat apprehensive. It’s not easy to find things we both like these days!

We are here to get kitted up before being bused up river for our first experience of white water. Is it really safe?! That’s the question; as you don wetsuit, helmet and life jacket there is mounting anticipation and excitement.

The leader does inspire confidence, it must be admitted, but comments, ‘If this should happen, if that  . . .’

I look over at the river. Man that water is moving fast!

There are four boats, each with a trained leader at the helm. Well actually, they sit in the centre of the boats manipulating the only two oars.

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We eight passengers all have paddles. As we move out from the shore we feel more confidence, and note there is an additional safety kayak to accompany us on the nearly 4 hour river trip down the swelling Chilliwack River.

This inflatable is remarkable for its ability to ride smoothly, for the most part, over the choppy waves, but we regularly glimpse angry water ahead. We are tossed around by shear water power! It’s incredible, it’s exciting, yet after a couple such extreme times, you know that all is safe.

Talking to the trip leader Tim Nicholson afterward, he explained that all guides are highly qualified. “We all have First Aid level 2 or 3 plus level 3 or higher  ‘swift water technicians.’”

Nicholson loves what he does. “Many are intimidated but safety really is first.” He said even small mishaps are rare and quickly corrected.

Kids under 10 or 80 lbs in weight are not permitted, but for parents wanting an activity to create memories with their teenagers this is an awesome trip neither will forget!  

June 2007