REO Rafting & Yoga Resort - Relaxation & Rafting in Beautiful British Columbia
Published July 5th, 2024
Photography provided by REO Rafting & Yoga Resort
In conversation with Bryan Fogelman, President, REO Rafting & Yoga Resort, how he’s created a unique, enthralling experience in Boston Bar in the Fraser Canyon, British Columbia, that attracts guests from around the globe.
Note that REO Rafting & Yoga Resort is a season experience; check their website for yearly operational dates.
1. What exactly does REO Rafting Resort do and offer?
We are a family-owned and operated nature, wellness and adventure resort. We offer a mix of high-energy guided adventures as well as a full range of relaxing experiences and amenities - a perfect combination for thrill-seekers and those simply looking to unwind in nature.
2. How long have you been in business?
42 years and counting. I started REO in 1983 after finishing a Masters degree in Economics at Simon Fraser University. I truly hope REO will continue to operate for several more generations.
“ The desire to build something unique and exceptional led to my vision to create an off-grid resort surrounded by nature and complimented by amazing adventures, river’s edge glamping and a focus on wellness. ”
3. What inspired you to create REO?
The thrill of exploration and adventure was a driving force. I was able to offer the first commercial rafting descents on 9 beautiful rivers in British Columbia. The desire to build something unique and exceptional led to my vision to create an off-grid resort surrounded by nature and complimented by amazing adventures, river’s edge glamping and a focus on wellness.
4. You've recently recovered and reopened from a devastating wildfire last summer; what changes have been made to this version of the resort?
For starters, we reopened on a smaller scale. We lost 17 glamping tents (plus 50+ beds, mattresses, decor, etc) so we rebuilt many and created new staff lodging. We future-proofed our water system by trenching a 2,500-foot pipeline, 3 feet down, to ensure better protection during drought or future fire events. We designed beautiful relaxation gardens in areas hard hit by the fire and where we had to cut and remove hundreds of trees. Quite a remarkable change that our recent guests love and appreciate. Future projects will include a new yoga shala overlooking the Nahatlatch Canyon, a new centre for corporate offsites, retreats and special events, and added wellness amenities for guests.
“Our guests have ranged from babies to an 88-year-old who knocked one off her bucket list by rafting the entire Nahatlatch river.”
5. Of all the guests and experiences you've hosted, which one stands out to you as the most memorable and why?
Dozens of people (like me) met their lifelong partners as a guest or while working at REO. Karen and I also started a family tradition by hosting our wedding at REO. Our daughter Sierra just hosted her wedding here last summer. Family, friends and loved ones in a spectacular setting is unforgettable. Also top of my list are the 29 songwriting retreats I’ve hosted at REO. The river is a powerful source for creativity and inspiration. Life-changing experiences are created here.
6. What can guests expect with then visit REO?
A unique and eclectic mix of adventure, relaxation, camaraderie……all accompanied by delicious food, desserts, and the unrelenting sound of the rapids. Our guests have ranged from babies to an 88-year-old who knocked one off her bucket list by rafting the entire Nahatlatch river (35+ rapids).
“Simplicity, modern comforts in a remote setting, the thrill of adventure, the rush of the river. That’s a rare, down-to-earth combination. ”
7. What are your three top reasons for people to experience REO?
Here are five:
1. World-class whitewater rafting on the Nahatlatch
2. One-of-a-kind yoga and wellness experiences at the edge of a wild, jade-green river
3. Spectacular off-the-beaten-track amenities for families, groups, events, retreats, weddings
4. Luxurious glamping, right at the river’s edge
5. A dedicated team of guides and staff to create one of the most memorable experiences ever.
8. What makes REO so special to guests?
Simplicity, modern comforts in a remote setting, the thrill of adventure, the rush of the river. That’s a rare, down-to-earth combination. And the complete opposite of the large resort destination experience.
9. What's motivated you to have REO in operation all these years?
Overall, the positive responses we get from our guests gives us the strength and resolve to evolve and continue our mission. Mind you, managing our unique elements has been an incredible challenge, especially with the climate impacts on water levels, forest fire management, etc. The impacts of the recent wildfire, the lack of any disaster relief funding, and the urgency of the rebuild to stay in business, has made this the most difficult and challenging year in our 42-year history.
10. Blending excitement via rafting and relaxation via yoga is quite the balance; if you were to add another element here, what would it be?
Education. A learning centre to strengthen guest knowledge of forest and fire management, increase awareness of our unique plants, nature, salmon (born here, swim to the ocean, return and die here), our wildlife, etc. We will continue our alliance with local indigenous leaders to create a guardian program for local management of our forests and fires. People who live in our area, who care about our area. Because we have learned that decisions on where fire suppression resources go is made by people unfamiliar and far-removed from our incredibly beautiful area. And finally, we will integrate yoga and wellness in all of our adventures, getaways and retreats to enhance our guests personal and mental well-being.
To learn more and book your experience, visit reorafting.com