Overview

Grande Cache is located 140km north of Hinton, Alberta, on the BigHorn highway 40. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky mountains Grande Cache has, arguably, some of the best paddling in Alberta, not to mention Western Canada. The Grande Cache area has 4 major rivers to paddle: (in order of difficulty - easiest to hardest) the Smoky River, Sulphur River, Muskeg River, and Sheep Creek. The paddling season is from approximately early May to Mid-August but varies widely depending on rainfall and snowmelt. Peak flood usually occurs in the first week of June, and can raise the rivers to monstrous proportions. The information provided below is a guide to get you familiar with our rivers; however, under no circumstances should you act upon this information without consulting a local guide. We assume no liability for the accuracy of the information presented. Grande Cache rivers are strewn with strainers, sharp rocks, keeper holes, and unpaddleable waterfalls, do not paddle our rivers without having competent skills and a few runs under your belt with local paddlers. In addition to the river dangers the put-in's and take-out's can also be quite demanding. Highway access at some locations is not developed and therefore dangerous (be very careful when merging and exiting the highway at unexpected locations). To help facilitate familiarization with our rivers and provide an incredible opportunity for socializing the Grande Cache Branch of the Hinton Strokers puts on the Grande Cache Wild River Rendezvous. On this weekend the club hosts out-of-town paddlers to the local paddling menu by day and social events by night -fun, fun, fun, so don't miss it!

The following information includes details on the Rendezvous and river descriptions.

Costs

The complete Paddling experience free. There is no cost for the Rendezvous. All people attending may be required to participate in shuttling boats or helping out with other tasks associated with paddling. The Saturday night pasta Buffet is not free but social activities at the bar are sponsored by the Canadian Institute of Extreme Racing and the Grande Cache Hotel.

Itinerary

Shuttle Prep

Please do not come 5 minutes prior to departure and expect to "hop on." We need your boat, paddling gear, and dry gear ready to be loaded 30 minutes prior to the above listed departure times.

River Descriptions

River descriptions are for a medium high water level which is very typical in early June. If water levels are low the water features are somewhat reduced. If the river is in full flood all rivers become expert only and very dangerous filled with debris, trees and recirculating holes.

Other Boaters

This Wild River Rendezvous is a flexible weekend with canoeist, duckies and family members welcome. Non-paddlers can enjoy one of the many rafting trips with Wild Blue Yonder Tours while paddlers shred up the local waves. For more information on rafting packages contact Wild Blue Yonder Tours 1-877-wild-run (945-03786) or try their Web site: www.rafttherockies.net

Other Activities

Grande Cache is also perfect for a variety of other outdoor activities such as:

• Hiking & trail running (gateway to Wilmore Wilderness Park) 100's of miles of trails
• Mountain biking, an endless selection of trails from beginner to expert
• Golf, one of Alberta's most scenic 9 hole courses. Stunning views from every hole
• Tennis - two courts located in the center of town surrounded by mountains on all sides
• Swimming, at the recreation center pool, Grande Cache Lake beach, or Pierre Grey Lakes
• Fishing & Hunting- check with fish and wildlife for the various seasons
• Horseback riding - there are several riding stables in the area that offer packages
• Quading, 4 wheeling - please stay on existing trails

Grande Cache is also home of the Canadian Death Adventure Race. The Canadian Death Run is held every August Long weekend -125km individual or relay, cross three mountain summits, gain over 17,000ft of elevation, raft across a major river. Check us out at www.canadiandeathrace.com

Après Paddle (Social Events)

Rendezvous Social Events are held at the Grande Cache Hotel. The Grande Cache Hotel is the host hotel and has planned a variety of events for the weekend. Paddling all day and socializing at night will ensure the Grande Cache Wild River Rendezvous will be a memorable experience. All paddlers must meet in the hotel Lobby 30 minutes prior to the above listed river departure times, to arrange shuttles and organize into groups.

Accommodations

• Grande Cache Hotel - all paddlers will receive the sport rate. For reservations call 780-827-3377
• Marv-Moore Campground - For reservations (9am-4pm) call 403-827-3362

Event details provided by Dale Tuck