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DENALI RAFTING TOURS

Two routes on the Nenana River near Denali National Park. A scenic Class II–III wilderness float for families and first-timers. A Class III–IV canyon whitewater run for guests who want the rapids. Dry suits included on both.

Group whitewater rafting in an orange inflatable raft through rough rapids, with people in blue helmets paddling.
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Choose Your Rafting Tour

The Nenana River cuts through a glacially carved canyon just outside Denali National Park: 11 miles of one of Alaska's most scenic river corridors. New Wave Adventures runs two routes on the same stretch of water. Choose based on how much whitewater you want and who is coming with you.



One thing guests frequently bring up: the water is cold. Glacially cold. Dry suits are provided for every guest on both routes. The river stays outside the suit.

CANYON WAVE WHITEWATER TOUR

Tackle 11 miles of Class III–IV whitewater through the dramatic Nenana Canyon near Denali. A dry suit is included and you can choose oar or paddle raft. Four daily departures with expert guides. Ages 12+.

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3.5 Hours

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All ages

per person

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WILDERNESS WAVE SCENIC FLOAT

Float 11 miles of the Nenana River through a broad glacial valley with panoramic views of Mt. Fellows and Flat Top. Class II–III water, dry suit included, oar or paddle raft. Ages 5+.

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2.5 Hours

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All ages

$199

per person

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WHAT'S INCLUDED ON BOTH ROUTES

Both routes use the same gear, the same guides, and the same 11 miles of the Nenana River. Everything below is included on the Canyon Wave and the Wilderness Wave alike. There is nothing to rent and nothing extra to bring.

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DRY SUIT

The most important item. Keeps glacially cold Nenana River water completely outside.

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RIVER SHOES

Provided for the water.

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LIFE JACKET + HELMET

US Coast Guard approved. Guide checks fit before launch.

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SHUTTLE PICKUP

From your lodge or hotel in the Denali area.

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EXPERT GUIDE

Named guides: J Money, Tommy Salami, Luke, Danila, Pat, Briana, Tupelo.

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OAR OR PADDLE RAFT

Choose your format: guide rows or you paddle.

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POST-TRIP WARMUP

Facility and changing area available at put-out.

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WILDLIFE VIEWING

Moose particularly common along both routes.

Denali Park Zipline

Their Words, Not Ours

Rated 5 stars by guests who were once right where you are

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A must-do for all ages!

Great experience! The staff is absolutely the best, prioritizing safety and an amazing experience. Despite the cold water, we stayed warm and dry in dry suits. Our raft guide, Pat, made the adventure fun and interesting. A must-do for all ages!

DJM702

The scenery was next to none. Beautiful!

This experience was one of our favorite in Denali. They take really good care of you. It was 41 degrees and we didn’t feel it at all - other than the splash of water on your face! It was invigorating though! The rapids were so much fun and the guides were spectacular coaches. The scenery was next to none. Beautiful!

Shelli L

Worth the money

We just went on the river with my family and had a wonderful time! Corbin was our guide and he had great personal energy and a focus on safety. The river was higher than it has been since 2021. The team was very safety focused and I always felt my family was taken care of. It is such a beautiful and fun route down the river in this location. Worth the money and would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an exciting experience in Denali.

Mike C

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Questions Before You Book

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CANYON WAVE AND WILDERNESS WAVE?

    Canyon Wave: Class III–IV through Nenana Canyon, active rapids, minimum age 12. Wilderness Wave: Class II–III on same 11-mile stretch, broader glacial valley, age 5+ with parent in oar raft. Same gear, guides, duration, and starting price. Difference is whitewater volume and group composition.

  • WILL I GET WET? HOW COLD IS THE WATER?

    The Nenana River is fed by glacial melt around 36°F in summer. You won't feel it. Dry suits provided for every guest on both tours cover your entire body and keep river water completely outside.

  • WHICH ROUTE IS RIGHT FOR FAMILIES WITH KIDS?

    The Wilderness Wave accepts guests age 5 and up, with children under a certain age riding in the oar raft with a parent. Class II–III appropriate for kids meeting the minimum age. Canyon Wave requires guests 12 and up.

  • IS THERE A PADDLE RAFT OPTION?

    Yes on both routes. You can choose between an oar raft (guide rows, you enjoy the ride) or a paddle raft (you paddle on the guide's commands). Let us know your preference at booking.

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READY TO HIT THE NENANA RIVER?

Four departures daily: 8am, 10:15am, 2pm, and 6pm. Evening tours run through late summer light.