Athabasca River · Jasper National Park
Athabasca Mile 5
Family-friendly Class II rapids on the iconic Athabasca River. The perfect introduction to whitewater rafting in Jasper National Park — for first-timers and all ages.
The Experience
Rafting on the Athabasca River
The Athabasca Mile 5 is our most popular trip — and for good reason. Gliding through Class II rapids on one of Canada’s most storied rivers, surrounded by the peaks of Jasper National Park, is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve dried off.
This stretch of the Athabasca follows historically significant lands of the Cree and Stoney-Nakoda peoples, passing through Treaty 6 and Treaty 8 territories near the legendary Athabasca Pass — once the gateway for 19th-century fur traders crossing the Rockies.
Introductory Class II rapids make this trip perfect for beginners and families. Our certified guides will have you paddling confidently before you ever hit the water.
What’s Included
- Transportation to and from the river
- Full river equipment — wetsuit, boots & splash jacket
- Professional instruction from certified guides
- Does not include Parks Canada Levy or GST
2026 Departure Times
Check-in at RV Parking Lot, Jasper · Arrive 15 min before departure
Photo Package
All photos: $40 | Choose 2: $20 — Available for purchase after the trip
Prefer to call? 780-852-4292
Gallery
See It For Yourself
Pricing
Transparent, All-In Pricing
All prices in CAD. Does not include Parks Canada Levy or GST.
Children
Ages 5 – 12
- All ages 5 to 12 welcome
- Kid-sized equipment
- Extra attentive guides
Photo Package
Add-on
or $20 for any two
- Professional on-river shots
- Digital download
Testimonials
4.9 Stars Across 1,500+ Reviews
The best whitewater rafting in Jasper National Park
“My girlfriend and I took a tour of Athabasca Falls with Jasper Rafting Adventures earlier this week. The route is filled with Class 1 and 2 rapids, which is perfect for inexperienced rafters and families. We had the privilege of being accompanied by Emily and Ainsley as our guides, and we don’t have enough nice things to say about them! They were very knowledgeable on whitewater rafting as well as local fun facts/history and made it a memorable experience for everyone involved. Our bus driver Johnny photographed us from the shoreline and captured some magazine-worthy shots. If you are making a trip to Jasper, this is a MUST!!”
Benjamin Lee
TripAdvisor · June 2025
“I have nothing but amazing things to say about our time rafting with our instructor Ainsley! Our group had never done rafting before and were nervous but she made us feel extremely comfortable and the whole experience felt really safe! She even showed us major landmarks on the way and recommended some great places to visit! I would recommend this to anyone who is thinking to go for a great adventure.”
Ravneet Bhandohal
TripAdvisor · July 2025
“Just an amazing time — the guides were charismatic, fun, and knowledgeable. They were very passionate about rafting and that passion made all the difference. We had a mix of people with some experience and first timers like myself, and the adventure was perfect for everyone. Always felt taken care of, safe, and they made sure we all had fun. One of the best adventures we’ve ever had. I would highly recommend this company to anyone thinking about rafting the Athabasca.”
Darren Judd
TripAdvisor · June 2025
FAQ
Common Questions
Absolutely. The Athabasca Mile 5 is our most family-friendly trip — children as young as 5 are welcome. You do not need to know how to swim. Everyone wears a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) at all times on the water, and our certified guides are trained in swift-water rescue. The Class II rapids are exciting but very manageable for all ages and fitness levels.
Check in at the RV Parking Lot on Connaught Drive in Jasper — please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. We provide all river equipment (wetsuit, neoprene boots, splash jacket, and PFD), so just bring a swimsuit or athletic clothes to wear underneath, a change of dry clothes for after, sunscreen, and any personal medication. Leave valuables locked in your vehicle.
We have a 48-hour cancellation policy. Cancellations are accepted up to 48 hours prior to your trip departure time with a 100% refund. Within 48 hours, your trip is 100% non-refundable. Please note that bookings made through third-party companies may have different cancellation policies associated with them.
For Private Excursions or Groups travelling with more than 8 people, cancellations are accepted up to 72 hours prior to departure with a 100% refund. Within 72 hours, the tour is 100% non-refundable. Please contact us at 780-852-4292 if your plans change.
We supply everything you need for the water: a full wetsuit, neoprene boots, splash jacket, helmet, and PFD. Wear a swimsuit or light athletic wear underneath — avoid cotton as it stays cold and wet. Bring a complete change of dry clothes, including socks and shoes, for after the trip. Sunglasses with a strap and sunscreen are also recommended.
No — the listed prices do not include the Parks Canada Levy or GST, which will be added at checkout. The Parks Canada Levy is a mandatory fee for commercial activities operating within Jasper National Park. If you already have a valid Parks Canada day pass or annual pass, please let us know.
More Adventures
