Whitewater Rafting Jasper National Park
Athabasca Mile 5
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Athabasca Falls
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Sunwapta River
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Our Whitewater Rafting Trips
Whitewater rafting in Jasper National Park is one of the most popular outdoor adventures in the Canadian Rockies. Our Jasper white water rafting trips run on the Athabasca and Sunwapta rivers, offering everything from family-friendly splashy and scenic trips to exciting Class III rapids.
FAQs
What should I wear whitewater rafting in Jasper?
Wear anything you don’t mind getting wet. Swimwear is the best choice, but shorts and a t-shirt work as well. Avoid cotton if possible, as it stays cold when wet. Synthetic or wool fabrics are much warmer and more comfortable for white water rafting in Jasper National Park.
Do you provide special river clothing for rafting in Jasper?
Yes. We provide all essential gear for whitewater rafting in Jasper, including:
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Neoprene wetsuit
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Neoprene boots
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Life jacket
Depending on weather conditions, we may also provide splash jackets, neoprene jackets, gloves, or warm hats (toques). You’ll have everything you need to stay warm and comfortable on the river.
Where is the meeting location for Jasper rafting trips?
Our main meeting location is the RV Parking Lot north of the Jasper dog park. This is not the same parking lot as the public washrooms.
From downtown Jasper:
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Go to the traffic lights at Connaught Drive and Hazel Avenue
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Cross over the railway tracks
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If a train is blocking vehicle access, there is a pedestrian underpass, so walking from downtown is recommended
Look for blue or yellow school buses with rafts on trailers.
Important note:
Self-Drive Sunwapta River rafting trips meet directly at the river take-out location SEE MAP for details.
Is there a weight limit for whitewater rafting in Jasper?
There is no minimum or maximum weight, as long as participants meet the minimum age requirements. All guests must wear a neoprene wetsuit, and we offer sizes from Kids XS to Adult 4XL.
Please note:
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Rafting is a physical activity and most guests will paddle
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The Athabasca Falls rafting trip includes a short 5-minute walk down a trail to the river
Is there a minimum or maximum age for rafting in Jasper?
There is no maximum age, but there are minimum age requirements depending on the river:
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Athabasca Mile 5: minimum age 5 years
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Athabasca Falls: minimum age 6 years
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Sunwapta River: minimum age 12 years
These limits are based on safety and experience. Children under 5 generally do not enjoy Class II whitewater, and the Sunwapta River features more technical Class III rapids that require stronger paddling ability.
Is whitewater rafting in Jasper safe?
Yes whitewater rafting in Jasper National Park is very safe when guests follow guide instructions.
Before every trip, we provide a detailed safety talk. Across all our rafting trips, approximately 1 in 2,000 guests unintentionally fall into the water. If you want to swim, there are optional swim spots on some Athabasca River rafting trips.
Disclaimer:
Rafting is an adventure activity, and while following instructions greatly reduces risk, we can’t guarantee you won’t get wet.
Can I wear glasses or contacts while rafting?
Contacts are generally safe, but close your eyes during splashes to reduce the chance of losing them.
Glasses are welcome if they pass the Shake Test:
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Put your glasses on
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Look straight down
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Shake your head vigorously
If they stay on, they’re usually safe. If not, we recommend leaving them behind. Looking straight ahead through rapids also helps prevent glasses from being washed off.
Can I bring my phone or camera rafting?
Yes, GoPros and waterproof action cameras are welcome, as long as they’re securely mounted or strapped. Waterproof phones are also acceptable if secured.
Non-waterproof devices or unsecured items are not recommended, as everything will get wet and your hands must be free for paddling during whitewater rafting in Jasper.












