Tackle Class III–IV glacial rapids in Denali for an adrenaline-charged 3.5-hour adventure
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3.5 Hours
Dry suit, PFD, Helmet
Ride 11 miles of the glacial Nenana River through Denali's canyon, surging over rapids like Razorback and Coffee Grinder. Choose to paddle with the crew or sit back in an oar boat while expert guides steer.
Participants must be at least 12 years old (15 to paddle). The tour is not recommended during pregnancy. Dry suits fit guests 50 lb to 265 lb and up to 6'6" tall.
Free cancellation up to 2 days before the trip. No refund for cancellations made within 1 day or after participation. Trips run rain or shine. If the operator cancels and rescheduling is not possible you will receive a full refund minus the booking fee. The operator may change trip time or river section for safety.
Mile 238.5, Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK 99755, United States
The guides here really make the experience. Luke Johnson gets called out repeatedly for being knowledgeable, funny, and fantastic with kids of all ages. J Money, Corbin, Tommy Salami, and others consistently earn praise for their professionalism, local knowledge, and ability to balance fun banter with genuine safety expertise. The front desk staff, including Tracy, also get recognition for being organized and welcoming from the booking stage onward. The operation itself runs smoothly, with quality dry suits that actually keep you dry, well-maintained equipment, and seamless logistics from hotel pickup to drop-off. They offer different river sections based on water levels and experience, with the Canyon Run being popular for those wanting more action and the Wilderness Wave perfect for families with younger kids or those preferring a calmer float. One group noted their trip was more of a float than expected, but most reviewers found their experience matched what they'd hoped for. The scenery along the Nenana River consistently impresses, and the guides share interesting details about the landscape, wildlife, and glaciers throughout the journey.
Took the Canyon Wave Raft Tour with New Wave Adventure. We rafted through 11 miles of a glacial river with spectacular views of Denali National Park gems. The water was very cold (~40 degrees Celsius) and glad we had dry suits, warm clothing, & waterproof gloves. 🥶😎
Catherine Hunt
November 19, 2025
Took the Canyon Wave Raft Tour with New Wave Adventure. We rafted through 11 miles of a glacial river with spectacular views of Denali National Park gems. The water was very cold (~40 degrees Celsius) and glad we had dry suits, warm clothing, & waterproof gloves. 🥶😎
Catherine Hunt
November 19, 2025