Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting through the stunning canyons of Denali National Park. With expert guides and breathtaking scenery, this adventure is perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. Discover Alaska’s wild side on this unforgettable trip!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with basic swimming ability.
Wildlife
History
The river area has been used by indigenous communities for thousands of years and features ancient petroglyphs nearby.
Conservation
Denali Adventure Tours is committed to minimal environmental impact, practicing Leave No Trace principles and supporting local conservation efforts.
Denali Adventure Tours
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting through the stunning canyons of Denali National Park. With expert guides and breathtaking scenery, this adventure is perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. Discover Alaska’s wild side on this unforgettable trip!
Denali Adventure Tours operates in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, delivering a wide range of guided outdoor experiences that showcase Denali’s glaciers, rivers, and mountain vistas.
The company offers river adventures like the Scenic Wilderness Float on the Yanert Fork and Nenana Rivers and the Canyon Whitewater Trip — a 2-hour rafting run on the Nenana with over 10 Class III–IV rapids (including “Razorback” and “Royal Flush”) and both Oar Raft and Paddle Raft options.
Flightseeing options include the Denali Peak Experience with guaranteed window seats that approach within half a mile of Denali and glide over the Muldrow Glacier, plus a Denali Park Glacier Landing featuring a 15–20 minute glacier stop aboard a de Havilland Turbo Beaver. Helicopter offerings include Heli-Hiking to remote mountaintops and a Heli-Glacier Expedition with approximately 50 minutes of flight and 20 minutes on the Yanert Glacier.
Guided land options span a 2.5-hour Backcountry Walking Tour led by a naturalist to strenuous hikes like the Denali Interpretative Hike (5–6 miles with about 1,500 feet elevation gain) and a 4-hour Backcountry Wilderness Hike. An ATV Wilderness Adventure covers roughly 10 miles in about 1.5 hours.
All trips operate within Denali National Park and Preserve and are led by experienced guides familiar with local terrain, safety protocols, and interpretive natural history. Travelers should review age and fitness requirements for each trip (for example, Canyon Whitewater is suitable for ages 12 and up). Reservations are recommended for peak season to secure preferred dates and trip types.
Location
Denali National Park
Based in Alaska's premier park
Tours Offered
11
Range of guided adventures
Typical Durations
15 min – 5 hrs
Short flights to full-day hikes
Glacier Landings
Available
Includes Denali glacier stops
Reserve glacier landings, heli-hiking, whitewater trips, and scenic flights in Denali National Park — limited seats during peak season.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothes to stay comfortable during the wet and active rafting experience.
Bring Secure Footwear
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes that stay on your feet for safety and optimal grip while paddling.
Dress in Layers
Layer your clothing to adapt to changing temperatures, especially during early mornings or late afternoons.
Book in Advance
Secure your spot early, especially during peak summer months, as this popular activity tends to fill up quickly.
Dry Suit or Wetsuit
Helps keep you warm and dry in the fast-moving, often cold waters of the river.
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Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from splashes and helps maintain body heat in all seasons.
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Secure Helmet
Protects your head during rapid sections and ensures safety while paddling.
Quick-Drying Towel
Useful for drying off after the trip or during breaks.
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