Scenic rafting trip

Question

Hello travelers. We are four adults traveling to Denali in July and would like to do a scenic rafting trip while there. Does anyone have knowledge of a rafting company for this type of trip in Denali?

Answer

If you’re looking for a scenic rafting trip in Denali, you have several excellent options, depending on how adventurous you want to get and how much time you have. Here are some top companies and trip choices to consider:

Denali Raft Adventures — This is the original rafting company on the Nenana River, operating since 1974.
- Wilderness Run: A 3-hour trip, about 2 hours on the water, with Class I–II rapids (and one Class III). Great for scenic views, gentle adventure, and wildlife spotting (moose, possibly bears or sheep).
- Canyon Run: Shorter trip, more thrilling, with Class III–IV rapids such as “Razorback” and “Coffee Grinder.”
- Healy Express: Combines both scenic float and whitewater: about 5.5 hours total, running 22 miles of river.
They provide dry suits, neoprene booties, life jackets, and a shuttle from many area lodgings.
New Wave Adventures — A very reputable company in Denali with a variety of rafting options and a local feel.
- Wilderness Wave: 3–3.5 hours, 11 miles of river (Nenana), Class II-III rapids, very scenic, good for first-timers or those who want a relaxing ride with occasional splash.
- Canyon Wave: Same 11-mile stretch but more rapids, Class III–IV. You can choose to paddle or ride as a passenger.
- New Wave Combo: Combines the Wilderness Wave and Canyon Wave for a longer trip (~22 miles) if you’re up for more adventure.
They pick up from many Denali-area lodgings, and provide gear (dry suits, river shoes).
Denali Adventure Tours (Scenic Float) — A gentler rafting option on the Nenana River.
- 3.5-hour trip (2.5 hours on the water) through glacial valleys, with Class II–III rapids.
- Suitable for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, scenic river trip.
Traverse Alaska Rafting & Packrafting — Offers custom rafting trips around Denali.
- They can tailor a trip to your group's preference—mild float, more rapids, or even packrafting.
- Good for a more personalized, less “touristy” rafting experience.
Stampede Excursions — Offers a “Canyon Whitewater Raft Run” on the Nenana.
- About 3.5 hours, 11 miles, with exciting Class III rapids.
- Options to choose: paddle yourself or ride with a guide doing the oars.

My Recommendation:

If you want the best mix of scenery + adventure, the Healy Express with Denali Raft Adventures is a standout choice—it combines quiet floating with more thrilling rapids. If you prefer a more relaxed float with great views and wildlife chances, the Wilderness Run (Denali Raft Adventures) or New Wave’s Wilderness Wave are perfect. For full customization or a less “tour group” feel, Traverse Alaska is ideal.

A few helpful tips:

Book in advance: Summer rafting trips fill up quickly in Denali.
Dress in layers: Even on a sunny day, water is glacial cold—dry suits are usually provided.
Bring a camera or binoculars: Wildlife viewing from the raft can be excellent.
Make sure the outfitter provides shuttle transport if your lodging is not right at the river put-in point.

Enjoy your rafting adventure — it’s a spectacular way to experience Denali’s wild beauty from the water!