Kootenay / Kootenai River

The Kootenay River, known as the Kootenai in its American stretch, rises high in the Canadian Rocky Mountains and travels roughly 780 kilometres through densely forested valleys, narrow gorges and broad trench landscapes before looping through Montana and Idaho, returning to British Columbia, crossing Kootenay Lake and joining the Columbia. Its course passes steep rock walls, sparkling waterfalls and quiet river meadows, creating a striking blend of alpine wilderness and open river valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking on varied stretches, relaxed paddling and boating, outstanding fly fishing for trout in clear, productive waters, as well as hiking, camping and wildlife viewing along the banks.