Hike Denali taiga and tundra with a naturalist guide
Two to Four hours
Up to 11 people
Guide, bear spray, transport
Explore Denali’s taiga and tundra on a guided afternoon hike through forest and open tundra terrain. Learn about local plants and look for signs of wildlife as you walk.
You should be able to walk 2–4 miles on uneven ground. A Denali Park Day Pass is required; confirm how you’ll obtain it before you go.
Cancel at least 2 days in advance for a full refund. Cancel within 1 day is non-refundable. Trips run rain or shine. No refunds after participation. No refunds if you arrive at the wrong location or time. If the operator cancels and can’t reschedule, you get a full refund minus the booking fee.
Yes. All hikers must sign a liability waiver to participate.
Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers and wear sturdy hiking boots or trail runners. Bring a small backpack with water, rain jacket and rain pants, warm layers (like fleece), snacks, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, chapstick, and a camera. If you carry medications (like an epinephrine auto-injector), bring them with you.
Yes. Hiking poles are available to borrow, or you can bring your own.
New Wave Adventures Office or we can provide a free shuttle
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