Sunwapta River Rafting in Jasper
Sunwapta River Class III White Water Adventure
Challenge yourself with the next level of adventure
For those looking for a thrill, it’s time to take on the Sunwapta River. The name ‘Sunwapta’ comes from the Stoney word for ‘turbulent river’. Living up to its name, this Class III white water adventure will provide more consistent and more challenging rapids than the Athabasca River has to offer.
However, don’t be fooled into thinking this is for expert rafters only. Despite a higher level of difficulty, this section of river is an excellent choice for the brave beginner as it begins with a gentler section of Class I and Class II rapids before ramping up into the Class III white water that gives the Sunwapta its name. The area was completely unaffected by the 2024 wildfire.
Option I
Sunwapta River
Self Drive
Self-Drive Adults (12+): $117
Difficulty Class III
Water Time ~1.25 hours
Wapta is average 2.5 hours (meeting and ending at Sunwapta).
No online booking fee at checkout. Prices do not include Parks Canada Levy or GST.
Trip departure times
You will meet at the Sunwapta River takeout, parking is before the gate and limited, so stay to the sides and leave the turnaround open.
Always meet us 15 minutes prior to the trip times. There will be no refunds for missed departures.
Travel time from Jasper is approximately 45 Minutes!
If you are coming from British Columbia, you will be an hour late, so set your clocks to mountain time.
Trip departure times
June 3rd, 2026 to August 20th, 2026
9:45 AM – 12:45 PM – 3:15 PM
Departure from Sunwapta River Takeout
What Makes the Sunwapta River Different?
What sets the Sunwapta River apart is its powerful, consistent white water, with steady Class II and Class III rapids framed by the dramatic peaks of the Endless Chain mountain range.
Minimum age of 12 years old.
What's Included?
- River Equipment
- Wet-suit, boot, jacket, etc.
- Professional Instruction
- From one of our certified Raft Guides
What's Not Included?
- Transportation
- Photos
Available for purchase after your trip. $40 for all of your trip’s photos, or $20 for two.
What to Expect on Your Sunwapta Self Drive Rafting Trip
8:45 am | 11:45 am | 2:45 pm – Leave Jasper
With your swimwear on (underneath some warm clothes), you will meet our team at the Sunwapta River Takeout Parking Lot, located 55 km south of Jasper, 300 metres south of the Sunwapta Resort Hwy 93 (Icefield Parkway)
Arrive at the Put-In
Your eponymous adventure starts here, lock your vehicle and hop on our rafting bus. We will transport you to the staging area. With the short bus ride over, it’s time to gear-up. Our guides will provide the gear and instructions, as well as the prepare the rafts your upcoming Class III adventure.
Arrive at the Take-Out
Roughly an hour and 15 minutes later (depending on water levels), you will finish your adventure upstream of the famous Sunwapta Falls. 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.
Arrive back at the Sunwapta River 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).
Option II
Sunwapta River
Transportation included
Adults (12+): $132
Difficulty Class III
Water Time ~1.25 hours
Trip length for the Wapta town pick up is average 4 hours.
No online booking fee at checkout. Prices do not include Parks Canada Levy or GST.
Trip Times
You will meet at the RV parking lot located at Sleepy Hollow Rd & Hazel Ave in Jasper. Always meet us 15 minutes prior to the trip times. If you are coming from British Columbia, you will be an hour late, so set you clock to Mountain time.
Trip Times
June 3rd, 2026 to August 20th, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Departure from RV Parking
Is Sunwapta River Rafting Right for You?
Expect a Class III challenge, with powerful white water, continuous Class II and III rapids, and incredible views of the Endless Chain mountain range.
Minimum age of 12 years old.
What's Included?
- Transportation
- From Jasper, to the river, and back
- River Equipment
- Wet-suit, boot, jacket, etc.
- Professional Instruction
- From one of our certified Raft Guides
What's Not Included?
- Photos
Available for purchase after your trip. $40 for all of your trip’s photos, or $20 for two.
What to Expect on Your Sunwapta Transport Included Rafting Trip
Meet at the RV Parking Lot
With your swimwear on (underneath some warm clothes) on, 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!
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 45 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.
Arrive at the Put-In
With the bus ride over, it’s time to gear-up. Our guides will provide the gear and instructions, as well as the prepare the rafts your upcoming Class III adventure.
The Adventure Begins!
After a short walk down to the river, it’s time to hop into your raft. The Sunwapta River will ease you into the world of whitewater rafting by proving a 10-15 minute section of Class I and Class II water. After that, Class III awaits!
Arrive at the Take-Out
Roughly an hour and 15 minutes later (depending on water levels), you will finish your adventure upstream of the famous Sunwapta Falls. 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.
Head Back to the RV Parking Lot
One quick head count later, and you’ll be on your way back to the RV Parking Lot! From the Sunwapta Falls, it is another 45 minute drive back to town. During this time, entertainment will be provided by one of our Raft Guides in the form of a slideshow of all the trips’ photos. Your photos will be available for purchase after your trip through our website.
FAQs About Sunwapta Rafting in Jasper
What class is Sunwapta River rafting?
Sunwapta River rafting is a Class III white water experience. It features moderate waves, faster current, and more consistent rapids than the Athabasca River.
What Is the age limit for Sunwapta River rafting?
The Sunwapta trip is 12+ only due to the stronger rapids. For younger children, Athabasca Mile 5 (minimum age 5) or Athabasca Falls (minimum age 6) are better options.
Is Sunwapta rafting suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable swimming, adventurous beginners can raft the Sunwapta River. The trip starts with easier Class I and II sections before moving into Class III rapids.
Where does Mile 5 rafting take place?
The trip runs on the Athabasca River just minutes from the town of Jasper.
Where do you meet for Sunwapta rafting?
Self-drive guests meet at the Sunwapta River takeout. Transportation guests meet at the RV parking lot in Jasper.
What should I wear for Sunwapta River rafting?
Bring a swimsuit and towel or anything you don’t care that gets wet. Wetsuits, booties, jackets, helmets, and life jackets are provided.
Is Sunwapta rafting harder than Athabasca Mile 5?
Yes. Sunwapta is Class III and offers more continuous rapids. Mile 5 is Class II and more suitable for families.