SNOWY RIVER KAYAK
ADVENTURE
A BIG ADVENTURE TOUR
THAT WON'T HURT YOUR BUDGET
LENGTH
7 DAYS 6 NIGHTS
Sept to March
$2595
LOCATION
SNOWY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
WHO
15 years minimum
EVERYONE
FOCUS ON WILDERNESS KAYAKING EXPEDITION
Join us for a holiday that is fun and exciting, whitewater kayak paddling your own individual kayak down the famous Snowy River We provide all training, kayak and camping equipment for your awesome Snowy River Kayak Adventure. Real outdoor experiences for real outdoor people
HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT
If you are thinking about doing a Snowy River Kayak Adventure then you have come to the right place here's why:
Key points,
- no shared rafts
- no shared canoes
- Only single person kayaks
- full training included
Walking Rivers believes its more fun and exciting, whitewater rafting or kayaking if you are paddling in your own individual kayak. We specialize in one person one kayak.
Why pay for a personal experience and find yourself sitting in a raft with six or more strangers.
Our kayaks are real river touring boats they are not inflatables. We provide all transport, food, training, and equipment for you to have an excellent Snowy River kayaking adventure.
WHY WE LOVE OUR SNOWY RIVER ODYSSEY
The Snowy River kayak adventure is just that, a real adventure.
Key points, why we love the Snowy River Kayak Adventure
- A real wilderness adventure
- full of intrigue and excitement
- Kayak only accessible
- Ancient landscape with steep-sided gorges
Known to offer you intrigue and excitement around every bend in the river, it has become one of our favorite experiences.
Because of the remoteness of the area, there is no other way to experience this part of the national park other than by Kayak.
We love paddling through the steep-sided rocky gorges and being part of the ancient landscape. We know of no other place in Australia with scenery that has forged as many legends as the Snowy River.
Additionally, we know you will love seeing some of the abundant wildlife that calls the river corridor home. Our private sandy riverside campsites often allow you to get up close and personal with many of Australia's native animals.
Our Snowy River Kayak Adventure allows plenty of time for you to become fully immersed in all the natural beauty the river has to offer.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS
First, there is the opportunity for you to guide your kayak down more than one hundred easy to paddle river rapids.
Key points, activity highlights
- 0ver one hundred rapids
- offers numerous challenges
- swimming in the whitewater
- jump and diving off rock cliffs
- paddle through famous gorges
- incredible photography opportunities
- camping in true wilderness
Rapids offer fun, excitement and for a lot of people, a challenge that is out of there comfort zone but with some training they soon to learn to relax and enjoy the experience.
While we are talking about the rapids, another highlight of this adventure is swimming down selected safe rapids. It is an excellent fun way to cool off and relax at the same time.
Additionally, for those that wish too, there is also the opportunity for jumping and diving from various rocks in the gorges.
Or maybe you would prefer to laze around in one of the slow-moving crystal clear water pools.
Finally, our highlight list wouldn't be complete without mentioning that we paddle through four spectacular boulder strewn gorges.
The most famous and memorable being Tulloch Ard Gorge.
This canyon has some more difficult rapids that we do not paddle but instead portage around. The carriages are a lot of fun and part of the challenge they often end up being a very memorable part of your Snowy River kayak adventure.
As with all of Walking Rivers experiences for people with a penchant for photography, the opportunities are just incredible.
MORE ABOUT THE WILDLIFE
The wildlife in the river corridor is varied and abundant.
Key points, the wildlife
- regularly see
- Platypus
- Kangaroos
- Emu's
- Brumbies
It is not uncommon to witness emu and kangaroos within meters of our campsites. You will see platypus, river dragons lots of birds and even the occasional snowy river brumby (Wild Horse) coming down to drink from the river.
We have been watching the same pair of swans and their babies every time we paddle the river
GETTING THERE IS HALF THE FUN
Our Snowy River kayak adventure starts from our home base in Newcastle;
Key points, getting there
- convenient departure points
- regular breaks
- onboard movies
- making friends
the Walking Rivers bus travels down through Sydney and onto our start point on the river (approximately 9 hours driving). Our coach can pick people up at one of our designated meeting places along the way and return you to the same spot. We are as flexible as possible with our pickups to try and make it easy for you. Talk to us on an individual basis to arrange your pickup point. Of course, we will bring you back to your pick up location when your adventure ends.
WILDERNESS CAMPING
For those who haven’t tried it, the Snowy River kayak adventure is a typical expedition style kayak trip down a river.
Key points, the camping
- reconnect with nature
- relaxing environments
- time to reflect the day's activities
- feeling free
We are limited to what we can travel with, as both all our camping equipment and food needs to fit into the Kayaks. However, we feel the boats are roomy enough for us to take everything we need to ensure a high level of comfort.
We are camping in a different location beside the river each night. Therefore we need to set up and dismantle our camp every day.
ABOUT THE KAYAKS
Custom designed kayaks for undertaking river journeys like the Snowy River kayak adventure.
Key points, the kayaks
- crossover design
- easy to paddle
- fast through the water
- carry large amounts of gear
- helmets and PFD's supplied
They are light, stable, easy to paddle, respond well to turning maneuvers and are roomy enough to carry all our camping equipment. Furthermore, they are excellent at negotiating the whitewater rapids we will be paddling down. Longer than a short whitewater boat but not as long as a sea kayak they are a compromise between the two, primarily because as well as needing to be highly maneuverable in the rapids they need to carry a lot of equipment
ABOUT THE FOOD
We just have to say. When possible, we use locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables sourced from our nearby farmer's markets.
Key points, the food
- all included
- plenty to eat
- cooked daily
- 24-hour snacks and fruit
- diverse menu
Additionally, we like to top our delicious meals of with some camp style baking. Furthermore, we also provide 24-hour snacks just in case you get a hungry for something late at night. It is a Walking Rivers policy you will never go hungry, even after a day’s paddle in the fresh air.
WE INCLUDE
- Professional guiding service
- All kayaking equipment (including kayaks, PFDs, paddles, pumps, ropes, and sponges)
- Meals on arrival at camp (breakfast day one to breakfast day seven )
- Camping equipment including tents, Therm-a-rest mattresses,cooking equipment
- National Park Fees
- bus travel both ways from Newcastle via Sydney
WE DON'T INCLUDE
- Not included in the tour cost are accommodation before or afer the tour completion
- Flights, airport transfers, ferries, taxis
- Travel/medical insurance
- Alcoholic or carbonated beverages
- Personal items (toiletries, clothing, etc.)
- sleeping bag
ABOUT YOU
If you are at all apprehensive about your abilities to undertake something like the Snowy River kayak Adventure, please remember our experienced river guides will train you in the skills needed to negotiate all of the rapids with ease.
All you need is to be moderately fit and have a yearning for some safe and controlled adventure.
Going on a fully guided adventure is very different to going it alone. Being conducted by professional, trained, qualified people allows us to go to many places that would be unthinkable on our own. Additionally, we consider you to be part of a team overcoming all the challenges the river throws at us.
Walking Rivers has comprehensive risk management and contingency plans in place as well safety procedures that ensure you will be free to not worry about anything too much other than having fun.
Let us know if you are you are bringing any of your own camping equipment. After checking the list of what to bring lets us know
ITINERARY
Our Snowy River Kayak Adventure begins the moment we climb on board the bus. Relax and enjoy the journey as we whisk you along the highway to Jindabyne and then onto Willis through the Australian Alps.
PRE-TRIP MEETING
WHEN: one week before leaving
WHERE: We endeavor to have our meeting place as close as possible to where the highest number of people in the group are situated.
Additionally, we try to find a venue near public transport.
Don't worry if you can not make it as an alternative we can skype or telephone individuals and bring you up to date that way.
Firstly our meeting provides you with the opportunity to meet your guides and fellow kayakers as well as letting you get answers to any questions you may have about the Snowy River Kayak Adventure.
After the introductions, your guides will tell you about the logistics of the journey and the gear we use Additionally we will have a demonstration Kayak on hand for you to gauge how much space they have in them for your equipment.
The meeting also allows us to confirm the exact departure time and location, for each person or to alert you if there are have been any last minute changes.
DAY ONE
This first day is spent traveling to our first campsite at Willis nature reserve beside the Snowy River in the lower Snowy Mountains National Park.
To be there with enough time to set up camp, cook dinner, unload the boats, etc. we need to have a five am start in Newcastle ( I know sounds horrible doesn't it).
For people that do not wish to travel so far by road, it is possible to fly to Canberra, and the bus can pick you up from the airport. Flights are at your cost. On arrival at Willis , we put up tents, light a fire ( if fire restrictions are not in force) have dinner and enjoy the evening talking around the campfire.
DAY TWO
Rise and shine ready for fun and adventure.
Firstly we have a hearty breakfast after which we then start to pack up the campsite and get ready to go onto the water.
However, before we get in the boats, we will do some onshore training just to make sure everyone is on the same page. Its a great chance for some revision for the more experienced paddlers and for the new kayakers they will quickly see how easy kayaking is.
We will be covering the following paddle strokes and whitewater skills; these are all the skills you will need for paddling the snowy river kayak adventure
- Draw strokes
- Forward and reverse strokes
- Sweep strokes
- Bow-rudder
- Slap support recovery stroke
- Ferry-glide. upstream and down-stream
- How to read white-water to find the correct path down rapids.
- Eddy out
- Self rescue techniques
- Equipment demonstration.
- Group management
- Safety procedures.
Don't worry if that seems a lot to remember; we have plenty of time to practice and go over all the different techniques as we paddle throughout the day.
The river starts off with a nice long flat tranquil pool; it is great for enabling people to get their balance and to get used to how the kayaks move in the water.
The river between Willis and McKillop's bridge has approximately 30 rapids that range between gravel races, grade one and grade two. A couple of the rapids are excellent training rapids allowing us to hone our skills for further down the river where the whitewater becomes more extended and wilder.
We travel at a leisurely pace to allow for plenty of swimming, animal observing and relaxation.
Our camp that night is in a beautiful location beside the river on a sandy beach.
DAY THREE
As we leave Red Rock campsite, we will be looking forward to a big day for both rapids and distance. It's a twenty-six-kilometer day with rapids becoming more numerous and fun. Additionally, by now everyone is usually feeling comfortable with handling the Kayaks on both the flat water and the rapids. Remember we are always paddling with the flow of the river, which means the Kayaks move along with minimal effort.
Our campsite this time is known as Little River, and it's another stunning wilderness setting on the sand, alongside the river.
We always endeavor to light a campfire at all of our stops as it is a fantastic way to unwind from the day's excitement.
DAY FOUR
Every morning after breakfast we all gather together for an outline of the day's plans. Followed up by some yoga for those that need limbering up before paddling.
Today is inspiring as it's our first day with a grade three rapid in it. The rapid is known as logjam for no real reason other than there is a significant log laying on the bank nearby.
On our way, we’ll take plenty of breaks for stretching, photography, snacks, and we always take lots of time to explore the fascinating features the river has to offer.
Our camp tonight will be right near the entrance to the infamous Tulloch Ard Gorge. Known for some big rapids and the treacherous A-frame.
Don't worry we portage around the nasty stuff, never putting anyone in harm's way.
DAY FIVE
We spend all morning negotiating our way through the gorge. Carrying both the kayaks and our gear around the bigger rapids does take some time. Once completed you will think it was great fun and a significant part of the adventure.
It is a rewarding feeling getting to the other side.
After all our effort there is an excellent place on the other side for a swim. It has a rock for jumping off spot for those that are a bit more adventurous.
Day five does mean the end of the significant rapids with all the rest from here being back to grade two's and ones. Finally petering out altogether as the river starts to meander across the flats.
DAY SIX
Today we paddle past some old curios ruins with everybody guessing what they used to be in their heyday.
Also, some of the rock formations along this part of the river are astounding. Your imagination will be thrown back in time, wondering about how much heat and pressure it must have taken to bend the cliffs into today's shape.
The Snowy River delivers right to the end; our last paddling day is in some ways the best. It is a lazy relaxing paddle through some beautiful countryside down to our final river destination Buchan.
Once we arrive at Buchan our journey's end, we pack our gear load the boats onto the trailer and prepare to head home and back to the real world.
DAY SEVEN
IMPORTANT:
Our approximate return time to Newcastle is between 7 -8 pm, however, due to the number of variables in wilderness travel we recommend that you don't plan any critical appointments that rely on us being back at this time. Fixed times and dates can cause unnecessarily stressful complications should our return be delayed by something out of our control. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss your travel plans in more detail. We can pick you up or drop you off at the Airport or from your house.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We want you to enjoy your trip with Walking Rivers. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to call us on 0438563307 or email info@walkingrivers.com
On our first day before heading down the river, we spend whatever time is needed to make sure everyone has the necessary paddling skills. As we progress downstream on the first day, we stop at each set of rapids and give detailed instruction on a variety of topics about paddling each rapid. By the second day, you will be more than capable of paddling all the other rapids.
We have tried to make out tour dates coincide with the best times of the year. In all of our trips, the water is warm enough for swimming. We do not run this tour through the winter months as often the roads are impassable due to snow. Additionally not running trips in winter also means we do not need to wear wetsuits, these can be uncomfortable on long paddles.
Unfortunately for this trip, the answer is a definite yes you do. You don't need you to be an Olympic swimmer, but we would like you to at least be capable of swimming 25 meters in some fashion. Breaststroke, doggy paddle, freestyle anything it doesn't matter. You need to be comfortable in the water as there is a good chance at some point you will tip the boat over. When this happens, you may have your face under the water for a few seconds even though you will be wearing a PFD (personal floatation device). We will train you what to do if this happens so don't worry.
While height is not an issue being considerably overweight may be. This is an adventure activity and as such a medium level of fitness and agility is required. You will need to be able to paddle for approx six hours a day, scramble up the sand river bank in addition to climbing over rocks and being very active. If you have concerns, please contact us directly.
No problem, we cater for vegetarians every day.Some of our guides are vegetarian. Before all of our multi-day trips, there is a pre-trip questionnaire covering medical and dietary requirements.Please call our office +61 438563307 if you have any concerns you would like to discuss further.
Like all wildlife, we can not guarantee to see them however they are very active in spring. In particular, during spring the males are aggressively seeking out the females.We recognize and photograph many more platypus during this time.
Our Snowy trip is one of our bigger adventure trips, so we do like people to have some fitness level as well as good health. You need to be reasonably agile and capable of climbing over rocks on the portage sections of the river. Its ok not to be paddling fit as the river is flowing downstream and the boats will drift downstream even without paddling.More important is an adventurous spirit and a willingness to have a go.
Everyone who is participating in one of our multi-day trips
will be asked to complete our medical questionnaire. Very few medical conditions will prevent you from taking part.
Our guides do need to be informed however in case something goes wrong and you need their assistance.
Bring two sets of medications one as a spare that the guide will carry for you just in case you lose yours. We will be a long way from outside assistance, so we need to take every precaution possible to be self-sufficient.
Pregnant women are not able to participate as the risk is too high.
Internationally all whitewater rivers are graded as follows:-
Class I: Waves small, passages clear; no serious obstacles. Also described as gravel races. Often no deeper than knees.
Class II: Rapids of moderate difficulty with passages clear. (Great Kayaking for families or for people looking for an introduction to kayaking.)
Class III: Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks; eddies; rapids with passages clear though narrow openings, requiring moderate expertise in maneuvering. (This is the most popular classification for whitewater, and is the recommended level for beginning Kayakers)
Class IV: Long rapids; waves mighty, irregular; dangerous rocks; boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required. (Kayak paddlers seeking action and having extensive experience search out these rivers.)
Class V: Exceedingly difficult, long and violent rapids, following each other almost without interruption; riverbed extremely obstructed; big drops; fierce currents; very steep gradient. (Paddlers must have prior Class IV or better Kayak experience. High level of fitness required as well as the right mental attitude for very high-risk activities)
Class VI: Commercially unrunnable.
Yes, you can. However, we do recommend a sports strap or tie. Because of the nature of the adventure, we can’t guarantee the safety of your glasses. If they are vital to your vision, then we recommend bringing a spare pair with you. Two pairs of sunglasses are also recommended as the glare of the river can be quite blinding without them.
Tipping is not part of Australian culture. If you would like to show your appreciation, we would be more than happy with a good review on our website, or trip advisor.
Single person crossover Kayaks. Our Kayaks are designed for touring on rivers; they make good time on the flat stretches as well as being fun in the rapids. Additionally, they are easy to paddle, safe and can carry a lot of gear.
Yes, however waterproof or throwaway cameras are best. Also if you are bringing big cameras think about battery life as charging can often be difficult. There is a risk your pride and joy camera may get wet or damaged. Our guides have waterproof cameras that take reasonable good quality photos. We are happy to give you a dropbox link to the pictures at the end of the trip.
All watersports are thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and an enormous amount of fun. However, as in all adventure sports, there is an inherent risk involved. That uncertainty contributes to the excitement and is one of the reasons people love it so much. However it needs to be said there is a risk, and you must accept that risk when you elect to participate.
Yes, please contact us on 0438563307 for information on group discounts.
No, you don't. Everyone can enjoy our kayaking experiences. We provide training as part of your trip and a full safety briefing every day. Any of our qualified guides will be happy to give you any extra personal instruction you may require.
Walking Rivers P/L caters to all ages of adventurers. Although we do prefer a minimum of 12 years for our multi-day tours, we like to assess each case individually. Family tours are available for younger children, and those concerned with being in ‘their older years’ are welcomed to contact us to discuss their physical abilities.
PACKING
On the Snowy River Kayak Adventure, we will be packing everything into our kayaks each day to travel to our next campsite. While we recognize space is limited, please be assured we know you will be comfortable if you follow our guidelines below.
You will need to bring two bags:
1. your bus bag, a small backpack or similar
2. your general gear bag, these items will be packed into a kayak.
Please remember the saying "when kayaking less is more"
Travelling on the bus
Your bus bag only needs to fit items you may wish to have with you while we are traveling.Your bus bag stays with the bus. After we exit the bus at our first river camp, your bus bag travels without you to our river exit point. You may also leave extra items you wish to have with you for the drive home in your bus bag.
For traveling, wear anything you feel comfortable in for a long drive.
Items for consideration
water bottle
snacks
lollies
book to read
sunglasses
reading glasses
travel pillow
travel rug
clean underwear
change of clothes to wear home
Small bus bag
These items should be in your general gear bag.
You will paddle wearing the items below.Our priority is protection from the sun it can be brutal in the middle of the day.
Small bottle of Sunscreen
Pay particular attention to face, neck, under chin, ears, backs of hands.
Hat
Ideally should be broad-brimmed and wind resistant. An excellent choice is a safari type of hat that covers your neck area. Remember we are paddling whitewater and must wear head protection, so your hat needs to allow for a helmet to go over the top of it.
Sunglasses
Should be attached to a strap. We recommend taking a spare pair.
Short Sleeved Shirt
Over a thermal top. Both shirt and thermal top material need to be the quick-drying synthetic material such as polypropylene/polyester fleece or blend. DO NOT WEAR COTTON.
T-shirts and jeans etc. are not suitable clothing for Kayaking.
Long synthetic thermals
A pair of shorts over the top of synthetic thermals are ideal for your legs.
Fully covered for safety ready for the Snowy river kayak adventure
Footwear
Kayakers should always wear shoes with sturdy grippy soles, toe protection, and a secure fastening system.Enclosed footwear can also assist with sun protection.
Genuine Dunlop volleys are a great option.
Avoid sandals and wetsuit boots, as they do not provide sufficient support when moving around on wet rocks;
Rain Considerations.
We recommend at the very least pack a lightweight spray jacket with hood.
It can be preferable to have a waterproof and breathable material like Gortex. Other options include paddling specific apparel such as dry tops.
Warmth considerations.
In cold conditions avoid apparel made from cotton. Cotton insulates using open air pockets in between the fibers. When cotton gets wet, these pockets fill with water, and the garment loses its insulating properties.
Fabrics such as wool, nylon, and polypropylene insulate with closed air pockets inside the fibers. Garments made from these materials will hold some of their insulating properties when wet.
Consider a Fibre pile/fleece jumper if cold weather is forecast.
Medication –please ensure
1) The name and expiry date of drug is on the container;
2) You have the detailed instructions for your dosage and frequency;
3) Packed in a waterproof bag; i.e., sandwich bag or similar
4) Pack a full spare prescription in a separate container. Your river guide will carry this in case you misplace or lose yours. Lousy weather can also cause delays so having additional means you are safe.
If you are flying, please pack all necessary medication in your carry-on luggage. It helps eliminate some stress should your checked bags be misplaced in transit.
Water bottle.
One litre Nalgene bottles are superior to all others for kayaking.
Waterproof camera
Lightweight waterproof digital cameras (can be attached inside your life jacket with a lanyard);
GoPro or similar waterproof action cameras can produce excellent footage however they are savage on batteries. Consider how you will charge or bring
spare batteries and memory cards.
WHAT TO BRING FOR CAMPING
Kayaks are oddly-shaped vessels to pack, so the key is to pack into multiple small compact bags which we provide.(dry Bags) Additionally, kayaks are not watertight, small amounts of water may get in through the rudder lines and hatches in the event of a rollover.
It's more efficient to waterproof gear in lots of little bags rather than one big one.
Our kayaks are roomy but remember we also have to get all of our food and utensils in as well.
secluded camping
Snacks
We do supply snacks but if you have some favorites then bring them with you
Head Torch
A small hand-held torch will suffice but it is much better to get a head torch so as to be able to free your hands up for tasks. A good Head torch also allows you to read in bed at night if you wish.
Extra thermals
One set of synthetic thermals (we keep dry) for wearing in camp or sleeping in if it gets cold. You will not need any more clothes.
Underwear
We will let you decide how much of these you need.
Sleeping bag Liner
We are supplying down sleeping bags, that we have tested and know they are both comfortable and they fit into the Kayaks. All we ask you to bring is your own liner. If you are really susceptable to cold a great liner is the sea to summitt fleece one. Our bags are comfortable down to zero degrees celsius.
If you would prefer your own sleeping bag we recommend getting the smallest one you can that suits your temperature range . Big cheap K mart type bags will not fit into the Kayaks. Please ask us if you are unsure.
Inflatable pillow
A pillow is always nice but for the diehards who don't mind roughing it you can always stuff your jacket and spare thermals into a dry bag and use it as a pillow.
Swimmers
Often people just swim in their paddling clothes. Either way is successful.
Footwear around camp
Thongs or sandals for walking around camp work well and don't take up much space in the Kayak
Toiletries
Minimal soap, toothpaste, and toothbrush, dental floss, feminine hygiene products.
Small comb/hairbrush, 2 disposable plastic razor.
Optional items for consideration
Beanie
gloves either neoprene or fingerless sailing type
Insect repellant small roll on
book to read
reading glasses
Binoculars
down jacket
travel boardgames
cards
Please avoid wearing jewelry on the river.
We would just feel bad if you lost something precious to you. Leaving it at home is the safest place for it to be.
Beverages
We supply a range of teas and coffee as well as juices. You are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages. Please note however that we do expect our guests to consume alcoholic beverages responsibly and strictly enforce a no alcohol on the water policy.
Smoking
It is against the law in Australia to smoke in National Parks. If you are a smoker, please consider nicotine patches as an alternative solution for the time you are on the river.
Leave no trace
Everything we take into the National Park we must take out. Including toilet waste. Don't worry we have a system for dealing with everything. Your guides will go through it all with you when we are in camp on the first day.
fire cooking
