Wells Gray Whitewater Expedition
Big water. Real rapids. Helmcken Falls in your backyard. Three days of whitewater adventure in one of BC's most dramatic wilderness settings, fully guided and fully supported.
July 29 - 31, 2026: Wells Gray Provincial Park, BC
· 2 spots remaining · 5 volunteers needed ·
Event Application
The Situation
Whitewater rafting has a reputation for being inaccessible. The terrain is demanding, the logistics are complex, and most operators aren't set up to support participants with disabilities.
We've been doing this long enough to know that none of that has to be true.
The Clearwater Whitewater Expedition is three days of genuine big-water rafting in one of BC's most dramatic wilderness settings. The rapids are real. The river is real. What's different is that we've built the logistics, the equipment, and the support around you — so the only thing you have to think about is the river ahead.
You might surprise yourself out there.
Difficulty level: 🟦 - ♦♦
Accommodation: Tent & Cabin
Full scholarships available: 4
Brought to you by the Central Okanagan Realtors
What you'll get up to:
One afternoon on the Clearwater River is enough to understand why people come back. But the rafting is just the headline. Three days in Wells Gray Provincial Park means evenings around the fire at Helmcken Falls Lodge, mornings with the kind of quiet that only exists this far from a city, and a waterfall tour on Day 3 that most people remember just as vividly as the rapids. The river gets the credit. The full three days earn it.
This trip is proudly sponsored by the Central Okanagan Realtor (COR) Committee and the Kelowna Fire Department. Along with their generous support, four members of the Kelowna Fire Department and 2-4 realtors will join the trip to assist on the river, ensuring both participant safety and an exceptional experience.
What we handle
Adaptive Equipment
All-terrain Trailrider, river gear: wetsuits, towels, approved personal flotation devices, and helmets as well as many options for on the raft making the seating more comfortable and supportive for all body types (feeder seat positioner, lateral support, and more)
Support on the ground
We partner with a highly reputable rafting company that provides expert whitewater rafting guides. In addition, each participant is supported on the river with a 1:1 ratio by an experienced Adaptive Adventures volunteer or staff member. Many of our team members are trained Swiftwater Rescue Technicians and hold advanced first aid certifications, ensuring a high level of safety and preparedness throughout the trip.
Safety is our top priority
Our Trip Leader is fully trained and certified as a First Responder, Wilderness First Aid Attendant, Search and Rescue Technician, with 25 years experience leading wilderness trips for people with disabilities. In addition, our team compiles a very detailed safety plan to thoughtfully anticipate and mitigate risks, so you can enjoy the adventure with confidence.
Meals + Accommodation
All meals are included, featuring lodge-prepared dishes and a celebratory après rafting meal at a local Clearwater restaurant. Sleep in comfort with lodge rooms, or embrace the wilderness in our accessible teepee tents under the stars, wake up to morning sunlight and birdsong in the heart of nature!
Is this trip for me?
This expedition is designed for people who:
Live with a physical, neurological, sensory, or mental health-related disability or condition
Use adaptive equipment or benefit from additional on-ground support
Want a legitimately exciting outdoor experience
Are ready to be challenged and supported in equal measure
Final suitability is confirmed during your intake call based on your specific needs and the demands of the trip.
Not sure if this trip is right for you?
That's exactly what the intake call is for. Apply and we'll figure it out together.
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Kent Stewart, Participant, KVR Trip 2025
"Being able to get out into the backcountry and travel under my own power is incredibly meaningful. While my friends and family may have the physical ability to do this, there’s so much more involved — planning, equipment, support staff, and cost. All of which would normally make something like this out of reach for me.
Adaptive Adventures makes these trips accessible to anyone willing to give it a try. I feel so fortunate to be among the participants and never take a single moment for granted.”
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Mandy Gill, Volunteer, Broken Goat 2025
"The moment that will stay with me forever was seeing Claire cross the finish line — hand outstretched, beaming with joy. I couldn’t hold back the tears. Even when the motor broke minutes into the race, our team refused to give up. We harnessed in, roped up, and powered through, navigating obstacles together with resilience, teamwork, and determination. Every challenge became a memory, and every triumph felt shared. This experience with Adaptive Adventures was empowering, emotional, and truly unforgettable — I felt unstoppable!"
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Jenna, Participant, Haida Gwaii Trip 2023
"Accessible Wilderness Expedition showed me what’s possible when adventure meets accessibility. From climbing massive trees and kayaking for the first time, to fishing and learning about Haida Gwaii’s culture, I felt empowered, independent, and truly connected to the world around me.
The staff and volunteers were amazing — their support turned impossible moments into unforgettable triumphs. This trip was lifechanging, and everyone with a disability should have the opportunity to experience it."
Not for you?
What’s else are we up to?
If this expedition isn’t for you, check out the rest here!
I’m interested. What happens next?
1. Fill out the short expression of interest below
Tell us a bit about yourself, your needs, and which trip you're interested in.
2. We’ll book a 15-minute call (within 3-5 business days)
One of our team will reach out to answer your questions, understand your needs, and confirm the trip is the right fit.
3. Your spot is confirmed
We send you everything you need to prepare - gear list, travel details, and who to contact between now and departure.