Popular Alaska Whitewater Rafting Adventures
 Custom Search Whitewater rafting in Alaska is something that you'll remember for a lifetime! With it's abundant variety of different rivers, Alaska is one of the top whitewater rafting destinations in North America. With a number of diverse whitewater trip options available, it's a great way to experience the unspoiled wilderness of Alaska's national parks and river canyons. Here's a look at our top picks for an Alaska Whitewater Rafting Adventure:
2. The Kenai River 3. Copper and Kennicott Rivers
Alaska has literally hundreds of places to experience whitewater rafting, in fact, it's impossible to mention them all! Where you go really depends upon what your level of expertise is! This page considers options for both the novice and expert paddler. By far the most popular regions for river rafting are in and around Denali National Park, and also within the Kenai Peninsula. You can also plan an Alaska paddling vacation in these areas as well.
Denali National ParkMost rafting around Denali occurs on the Nenana River. This river flows north through the heart of the beautiful Alaska Range, and is the most popular whitewater destination in the state.It's the perfect way to enjoy Alaska's spectacular interior, while experiencing the thrills of whitewater! The Nenana River offers all types of rafting, from calm float sections that the whole family can enjoy, to class III and IV whitewater rapids. Different rafting tours are available in the summer from a number of companies operating near Denali National Park. And because not everyone is ready for a multi-day adventure on wild rapids, the Denali area is a perfect choice to consider for first-time whitewater paddlers. South of the Park entrance is where scenic float trips of the Nenana River can be booked. It's an excellent introduction to rafting, and can be full of adventure! Floating downstream, you're sure to see lots of wildlife such as bears, eagles, and cariboo - making this a favorite option for a family adventure. If you're looking for something more than just a scenic run on the Nenana, then try the 11 plus miles of class III and IV rapids, as you snake your way through the Nenana Gorge to the town of Healy. These more challenging trips start near the Denali Park entrance. Kenai PeninsulaWhen planning for an Alaska whitewater rafting excursion, don't forget to consider what the Kenai Peninsula has to offer.An adventure on the Kenai river can be anything from a scenic two-hour float trip, up to a seven-hour class II rafting experience. River rafting on the Upper Kenai River affords you the opportunity to float, while searching for wildlife and learning about the history of the region. Whitewater excursions are offered here from May through September, and can be enjoyed by all ages. Trips begin near Kenai Lake, starting out at Jim's Landing and can continue downstream to Skilak Lake. For more of an adventure, try traversing the whitewater rapids through the Kenai River Canyon. Tours can be arranged for all kinds of rafting, including trips into the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.
Wrangell St. Elias National ParkAnother popular rafting destination is on the Copper River in Wrangell St. Elias National Park. Here you can experience hanging riverside glaciers, with outstanding views of snow capped mountains and a wide variety of wildlife.Single-day and multi-day rafting trips are available from a number of different companies and outfitters. Some offer a combination of rafting and flightseeing tours, allowing you to see-it-all and do-it-all in a relatively short amount of time. As well, there are large sections of river, between the Gulkana River to the Chitina River, where it's not too hard to paddle. At 77 miles long, it's a recommended section good for beginners, with easy class II rapids. The Tana River really packs a punch with raging Class IV rapids and is located in the heart of Wrangell St. Elias National Park. The trip begins just downstream from the Tana Glacier. The Kennicott River also offers Classs III and IV water, as it spills into the Nizina River. Much of the rafting around here is only for those who are experienced, and is not suitable for beginners or younger children. It's always good to check with the tour operators in every area for suggestions on selecting whitewater rapid runs.
Alaska Whitewater Rafting Before You GoWe hope this gives you some ideas on Alaska whitewater rafting! As always, planning a rafting vacation is one of the most important parts.
But there are some that demand top physical conditioning and some outfitters and operators may require a physical test prior to departure.
Class I is considered to be the easiest, with Class V and VI proving to be extremely difficult and inherently risky. Most operators will designate their excursions as either "family class" or "adventurer class". Always ask before selecting a rapid run!
It's a good idea to dress in layers, especially if you are rafting in the spring or fall. And don't forget to bring along a good disposable camera, to capture the scenic highlights along the way!
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