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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Denali…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Rafting
    5. /Raft 22 Miles of Rapids Near Denali
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    Raft 22 Miles of Rapids Near Denali

    Combine calm river drifting and Canyon Wave rapids on a 22-mile rafting trip

    5.0 stars• 880 reviews

    Duration

    5.5 Hours

    Includes

    Dry suit, River shoes, Helmet

    Highlights

    Raft a 22-mile stretch that pairs the calmer Wilderness Wave with the faster Canyon Wave section. Spend about 5.5 hours on the water with an 8am start time.

    • Float the Wilderness Wave and take in views of Mount Fellows, Sugarloaf, and Mount Healy
    • Run Canyon Wave rapids like Razorback, New Wave, and Train-wreck
    • Choose to paddle as a team or ride as an oar boat rider
    • Watch for riverbank wildlife like harlequin duck and possible moose
    • Start at 8am and plan for a 5.5-hour trip

    What's Included

    • Dry suit
    • River shoes
    • Personal flotation device (lifejacket)
    • Helmet

    Things to know

    Ages 12+; you must be 15+ to paddle. If Canyon Wave is canceled for high water, wind, or safety reasons, you’ll be rebooked to the Wilderness Wave at the same time.

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel 2 days in advance for a full refund. No refund for cancellations within 1 day or less of the trip. Trips depart as scheduled, rain or shine. If New Wave Adventures cancels and rescheduling is not possible, you get a full refund minus the booking fee. No refunds after participation.

    Product ID: G5MRP3

    FAQs

    Dress in warm layers and plan on getting cold splashes from a glacial river. Wear a thin base layer (light long-sleeve or thermals), add a mid layer (sweater, sweatshirt, fleece, or vest), and finish with an outer layer (light puffy or jacket, ideally without a hood, and/or a rain jacket).

    Bring warm socks (wool, extra-thick winter socks, or two pairs layered). For hands, bring thin gloves; you can layer them with dish gloves for extra warmth.

    No. You get river shoes for the raft, and you leave your regular shoes behind so you can return to a dry pair after the trip.

    Meeting details

    Denali & Surrounding area

    Experience provided by New Wave Adventures

    Related locations

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Rafter

    $318

    1st part of Combo - Wilderness Wave

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

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      No booking or service fees, ever

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    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    5.0
    Excellent
    880 reviews•Google Maps
    711
    15
    3
    1
    0

    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.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    My husband and I were blessed by New Wave Adventures by giving us a wonderful rafting experience on the Nenana river. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. Our guide, J Money, was the best! He was a great help with our dry suits and embarking and disembarking on the raft. Thank you J Money and New Wave Adventures!

    Photo of Ronald Schroeder

    Ronald Schroeder

    September 1, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    My husband and I were blessed by New Wave Adventures by giving us a wonderful rafting experience on the Nenana river. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. Our guide, J Money, was the best! He was a great help with our dry suits and embarking and disembarking on the raft. Thank you J Money and New Wave Adventures!

    Photo of Ronald Schroeder

    Ronald Schroeder

    September 1, 2026

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