Athabasca Mile 5
A Historic Route
Raft down what explorer David Thompson and countless fur traders canoed up. It's more fun this way!
Introductory Class II rapids will provide fun splashes, and the Athabasca Valley will provide splendid vistas to keep you thoroughly entertained during your hour on the Athabasca River.
Your Itinerary
Times will vary depending on water levels, punctuality, pickups, weather, etc. The times below are to provide a general itinerary.8:45 AM - Meet at the RV Parking Lot
With your swimwear on (underneath some warm clothes), you will meet our team at the RV Parking Lot, located just across the railway tracks from downtown Jasper. When you see our blue or yellow school buses, you'll know you're in the right spot!
9:00 AM - Depart the RV Parking Lot
With your swimwear on (underneath some warm clothes), it's time to set off! To get to the put-in, you'll enjoy a 15 minute drive on the spectacular Icefields Parkway. Once introductions have been made, one of our professional raft guides will explain the trip, go over the gear, assign everyone's rafts/guides, and answer any questions you might have.
9:15 AM - Arrive at the Put-In
Your eponymous adventure starts here, at the Mile 5 Bridge, which spans the mighty Athabasca River. Once your bus has parked, we will start the process of getting you geared up with our river attire, and will provide everyone with a safety talk.
9:40 AM - The Adventure Begins!
After a quick photoshoot, it's time to hop on the water! The Athabasca Mile 5 begins with a ~10 minute float on Class I water. After this float, you will come across your first set of Class II rapids located next to Becker's Chalets. Here our bus driver will capture some action shots as your raft navigates through its section of white water. The rest of your adventure will be a mix of Class I and Class II water as you head back towards town on the Athabasca River.
10:40 AM - Arrive at the Take-Out
Roughly an hour later (depending on water levels), you will finish your adventure at the Old Fort Point parking lot. Here our bus driver will be waiting for your arrival. After helping us return the raft to its trailer, you will go through our finely honed gear-down process.
10:55 AM - Depart the Take-Out
After everyone has geared-down, and a final headcount has been completed, it's time to return to the RV Parking Lot. In order to keep everyone entertained on the long three minute drive back, we will have a slideshow of all the photos taken during the trip.
11:00 AM - Arrive back at the RV Parking Lot
Before hopping off the bus, you will double and triple check under your seat to make sure you have all of your belongings. After some high fives from the crew, and some sad goodbyes, you will have the opportunity to purchase the trip's photos from the bus drive (if desired).