Athabasca River Scenic Float Trip — Family-Friendly Rafting in Jasper National Park

Jasper•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal fitness required; participants should be able to climb in and out of a raft and sit for the duration.

Overview

Float the Athabasca for 2–3 hours of accessible river adventure in Jasper National Park. This family-friendly raft trip mixes mellow stretches and quick Class 2 rapids with interpretive guiding, local history, and easy logistics.

Athabasca River Scenic Float Trip — Family-Friendly Rafting in Jasper National Park

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Rafting

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You step onto the riverbank and the Athabasca greets you in two moods: a slow, silvery braid that coils through willow and boulder, and a sudden lively current that nudges the raft forward. The guide clips a life jacket on, cracks a grin, and with a practiced shove you’re off — two hours that feel like a local masterclass in Jasper’s landscape.

Adventure Photos

Athabasca River Scenic Float Trip — Family-Friendly Rafting in Jasper National Park photo 1

Adventure Tips

Wear water-friendly shoes

Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sandals prevent slips during boarding and keep toes safe on rocky shorelines.

Bring a dry layer

Temperatures on the river can be cooler than in town—pack a lightweight fleece or windbreaker inside a dry bag.

Protect against sun and spray

Sunscreen, a brimmed hat (strap recommended), and sunglasses with a retainer are useful on bright days and reflective water.

Secure valuables and camera

Hand-held cameras and phones should be tethered or kept in waterproof cases; professional photos are offered after the trip.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Elk (often seen near treeline)
Bald eagles and mergansers fishing the current

History

The Athabasca River was a key route for Indigenous peoples and later for fur traders; David Thompson mapped sections of this corridor in the early 1800s.

Conservation

Jasper National Park manages river access to protect riparian habitat—stay on designated boarding points and avoid disturbing wildlife; pack out all trash.