Grand Canyon of the Stikine

The Grand Canyon of the Stikine is a dramatic and challenging 72-kilometer (45 mi) gorge carved by the Stikine River in the northern interior of British Columbia, Canada. This formidable canyon has earned a legendary status among whitewater sports enthusiasts, often compared to the Grand Canyon of the Colorado for its scale and the intensity of its waters. It is home to a significant population of mountain goats and other diverse wildlife.

Formation and Characteristics

The canyon was formed by the relentless erosive power of the Stikine River cutting through layers of sedimentary and volcanic rock. In places, its steep walls plunge to depths of up to 300 meters (984 ft). The river's width within the canyon fluctuates dramatically, ranging from 200 meters (656 ft) to as narrow as 2 meters (7 ft) at a point known to kayakers as the "Tanzilla Slot." The canyon's distinctive coloration has led some to refer to it as "The big red."

A Legendary Whitewater Challenge

The Grand Canyon of the Stikine is officially deemed unnavigable by conventional watercraft. However, it represents a pinnacle of achievement for expert whitewater paddlers. Since the first descent attempt in 1981, it has been widely regarded as the "Mount Everest" of big water expedition boating, a benchmark against which other navigable rivers are measured. The canyon's whitewater is characterized by numerous grade V+ rapids, and expeditions typically take around three days to complete, though some elite kayakers have achieved single-day descents. Most attempts are made in early fall when water levels are lower, though the flow can vary significantly. The sheer vertical cliffs lining much of the canyon make exiting in an emergency an arduous and often perilous undertaking.

Conservation and Protection

In the late 20th century, proposals by BC Hydro for a five-dam hydroelectric project within the canyon generated significant opposition from conservationists and Indigenous groups, sparking a protracted campaign to protect the river. These efforts culminated in the establishment of the Stikine River Provincial Park in 2001. This park, encompassing 257,177 hectares, was created specifically to preserve the ecological integrity and natural beauty of this iconic stretch of the Stikine River.