Canyon Wave Rafting in Denali Alaska

Tour Description

Raft 11 Miles of the Nenana River- Get ready to crush through thrilling glacial rapids on the Canyon Wave, where adventure and stunning scenery collide. With names like Razorback, New Wave, Train-wreck, and Coffee Grinder, each rapid provides a heart-pounding ride and unforgettable moments.

What's included

Dry Suit to keep your clothes dry

River Shoes You will leave your shoes behind, so you return to a nice dry pair of shoes.

PFD This is a personal Flotation Device also known as a lifejacket

Helmet This adjusts like a baseball cap, you can wear hats under the helmet, preferably hats without a pompom on them.

What's not included

Photos available for purchase

Tips for guide and staff

Itinerary

Pick-up/Arrival at Office- Arrive at the office for check-in.

Check-in & Waiver Signing- Sign required waivers and use the restroom before gearing up.

Dressing into Dry Suits- Receive drysuit and dressing instruction

Shuttle to River Put-In- Travel by shuttle to the river launch site.

Safety Orientation- Listen to safety briefing to prepare for the trip.

Rafting- Enjoy your rafting adventure on the river.

Takeout & Gear Load- Reach the takeout point and load up your gear.

Shuttle to Office- Return to the office by shuttle.

De-suit- Take off your dry suit.

Drop-off at Hotel- Return to your hotel for a relaxing end to the day.

Highlights

As you launch onto the icy, glacial-fed river, the air is fresh and cool, carrying the crisp scent of mountain water. The river roars ahead, churning and foaming as you approach the first rapid—Razorback. Here, you’ll feel the power of the current as it surges beneath you, the waves crashing against the raft in an exhilarating rush. The spray from the rapids glistens in the light, while the cold splash of water against your face is both refreshing and electrifying. All the while, your guide keeps the energy high with jokes, stories, and fascinating insights about the canyon's geology.

Whether you join the team as a Paddle Rafter, gripping your paddle with adrenaline-fueled energy, or opt to play it cool as an Oar Boat Rider, letting the guide handle the hard work, this tour has something for everyone. Feel the rush of navigating the twists and turns of the river as it cuts through towering canyon walls, the echo of the rapids bouncing off the rocks. Between the roaring waves, there are moments of calm where you can take in the dramatic landscape surrounding you—rugged cliffs, distant snow-capped peaks, and the wild beauty of Alaska.

Hold on tight for Coffee Grinder, where the river swirls and boils, throwing you into the heart of its wild energy. As the raft surges forward, you’ll feel a sense of triumph, knowing you’ve conquered some of Denali’s most iconic rapids.

Whether you're paddling hard or enjoying the ride, this adventure guarantees you’ll get splashed, laugh and want to do it all over again. Whatever floats your boat, the Canyon Wave delivers an unforgettable rush on Alaska’s glacial waters!

Additional information

Check-in details

When you arrive, you’ll check in with us to ensure that all waivers are signed for your group and that you have the appropriate clothing for your rafting trip. We’ll go over any last-minute details to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Before your arrival, please contact our office to access and complete your waivers online. This helps speed up the check-in process and ensures everything is in order. If you need any assistance with the waivers or have questions about what to bring, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time to allow for check-in and any final preparations.

What to bring

We recommend wearing warm layers, especially warm socks, to keep comfortable while rafting on a glacial river.

Base Layer: Thin long-sleeve shirt or thermals.

Mid Layer: Long-sleeve sweater, sweatshirt, fleece, or vest.

Outer Layer: Light puff jacket (preferably without a hood) and a rain jacket.

Gloves: A thin glove layered with dish gloves is an effective way to keep your hands warm.

Socks: Wool socks or thick winter socks (like ski socks) are ideal. You can also layer two socks and use toe warmers in between.

Reminder: Your clothes keep you warm; our suits keep you dry.

Restrictions

Rafting is inherently risky not recommended for those who are pregnant.

Dry Suit Size Reference

Maximum Fit

XXL-Tall

Chest

50-52"

Waist

44-48"

Hips

48-52"

Weight

235-265 Ib

Height

6'4"-6'6"

Minimum Fit

XXS

Weight

50lbs

Neck

10"

Wrist

4.5"

Extras

Please note that a minimum of 5 rafters must be booked in order for the tour to run. If this minimum is not met, the trip will be rescheduled for a different time slot. If you have any questions please call our office.

Disclaimers

High-water / Wind Policy (Canyon Wave Only)

If New Wave cancels a Canyon Wave trip due to high water, wind or other safety reasons you will automatically be rebooked to the Wilderness Wave at the same time slot. We will send texts and emails for notification.

Opt in for text notifications.

Stay up to date with texts about your rafting trip.

You can also get access to your specific waivers via text and sign them right on your phone.

FAQs

What should I wear and what about shoes?

Leave your shoes at the office, and we’ll provide river rafting shoes. Dress warmly and bring socks as the water is cold. Your clothes keep you warm, and the dry suit keeps you dry. Only your hands and head may get wet.

What's the difference between an oar boat and a paddleboat?

In an oar boat, the guide does all the work while you enjoy the ride. In a paddleboat, you actively paddle, making it more adventurous. Both rafts navigate the same rapids.

What are the age restrictions for rafting?

Wilderness Wave: Oar boat – 5+ years, Paddle boat – 15+ years

Canyon Wave: Oar boat – 12+ years, Paddle boat – 15+ years

Can I still raft if I can't swim?

Yes! You’ll wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD to keep you afloat, and our guides provide thorough safety training before your trip.

Do you take photos? Can I bring my camera?

We’ll take professional photos. We discourage bringing handheld cameras as they may get lost. You are able to bring you phone, we recommend it has a strap or is in a waterproof case.

What gear will be provided?

We provide all necessary equipment: dry suit, wetsuit booties, PFD, helmet, and paddle (if needed).

Can I bring anything with me on the trip?

Personal items are not allowed, except for special medications, which can be carried by your guide.

What are the classifications of rapids?

Class I: Easy, smooth water

Class II: Moderate, regular waves

Class III: Moderately difficult, high waves and narrow passages

Class IV: Difficult, powerful rapids

Class V: Extremely difficult, long violent rapids

Class VI: Extraordinarily difficult, extreme danger, for top experts