Denali Rafting Wilderness Wave
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Denali National Park, USA
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Explore the scenic landscapes of Denali National Park on this white-water rafting tour. Float along the Nenana River and navigate class II and III white-water rapids with your seasoned guide. Enjoy an opportunity to see local wildlife and take in the views of Mount Fellows, Sugarloaf Mountain, and more over the course of the tour.
- White-water rafting tour in Denali National Park
- All necessary equipment and instruction is provided
- Admire the raw beauty of Alaska and see wildlife
- Suitable for families with children ages five and up
What's Included
- Professional River Guide, Drysuit, PFD, helmet, paddle (if needed), river shoes, transport to & from the river, safe location to store your personal belongings
- Warm Non-cotton base layers- polyester/wool, long johns, to wear underneath drysuit, extra socks
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
What To Expect
1
Denali National Park and Preserve
2
Denali National Park
3
Healy
4
Denali Park
5
Nenana River
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Most travelers can participate
- Wheelchair accessible
- No infants
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Linda_D
The wave raft trip we went on was a pretty chill ride. This specific tour is great for older people and children. The view from the raft was beautiful. Our guide, Tupelo was very knowledgeable which made the trip that much more enjoyable. It was a great experience.
Reviews
5.0
based on 524 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
MaryF_E, Sep 2026
Great time - our guide Atticus was very informative and helpful. He was kind and helpful assisting a couple of 70 year olds in and out of the raft.
Lynn_I, Aug 2026
GREAT trip. AARON was a great boat guide. Company is very honest and told people they could get a refund the day of the tour if they did not feel they could do the rapids.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thanks so much for the awesome review! We’re thrilled to hear Aaron took great care of you on the river. We always want our guests to feel comfortable and confident!
Geeta_K, Aug 2026
This was a great experience. Our guide Jake was fun and informative. This was our first time and we thoroughly enjoyed the ride.View is very scenic Highly recommend this excursion.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thanks for the recommendation and for joining us on the water. We hope your first rafting trip won’t be your last!
Jackie_j, Aug 2026
We had a great time on our rafting excursion. Everything was well organized Tupelo was our guide and he was amazing. Highly recommend this rafting company.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the great review! We’re glad you had such a fun time on the river and that everything felt smooth and well organized from start to finish.
Mark_T, Aug 2026
From pickup to our return back to the hotel went very smooth with being on time and organized. The staff is very friendly and helpful with very clear instructions. Our guide, J Money, was awesome! What I appreciated most was how he was attentive to each individual needs. If you wanted to help paddle you could but it was great to relax and enjoy the ride without a paddle. Highly recommend this company!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We’re glad to hear everything from pickup to drop-off was smooth and organized. Our crew works hard to keep things easy and stress-free from the moment you arrive until you’re back at your hotel.
Kathy_O, Aug 2026
What a great experience to view Denali from the river and the beauty of Alaska! J. Money was a fanatic guide who made the trip fun, enjoyable, and informative! Loved it! Go!!! You won't regret it.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the awesome review! We couldn’t agree more- seeing Denali and the surrounding Alaska scenery from the river is pretty tough to beat!
Jason_B, Aug 2026
Our family group of 9 had a great time on the Wilderness Wave tour! It was the perfect tour for our multi-generational group in that it was tame enough to bring the kids on while still being exciting for the rest of us! Our guide Brianna did a great job steering the raft and engaging with the kids...she was amazing!
The short Class 3 rapids on the river were a lot of fun for the entire group...we got soaked (but not really thanks to the dry suits). We also saw Dall Sheep...in fact this was the best view we had of them the entire trip!
I highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants a fun rafting adventure in Denali that isn't too crazy
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thanks so much for the detailed review! It sounds like the Wilderness Wave was a great match for your whole family. We’re especially happy to hear that everyone had a good time and that Brianna helped keep the trip fun for all ages. We’ll definitely pass along the kind words to her! And spotting Dall sheep from the river is a pretty special bonus—especially when it turned out to be your best view of them during the whole trip
Laura_T, Aug 2026
Great experience. Our 7-year-old grandson loved sitting in front and getting drenched! Less tame than I feared - just right!
Please improve your bathrooms! Everything else was professional and well-run.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thanks for the honest and thoughtful review! We’re glad to hear your 7-year-old grandson had such a great time up front and didn’t mind getting soaked. It sounds like the rapids ended up being just the right amount of excitement for your group!
Andrew_E, Aug 2026
Our guide Tupelo was incredible , highly skilled and great stories and information about the park and Alaska . The entire experience from check in to exit was very smooth and helpful . The company provided dry suits are clutch in these glacial waters . We saw Dall sheep on the hillside coming through the wilderness
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We’re so glad to hear that Tupelo helped make your adventure memorable with his skills, stories, and knowledge of the park and Alaska.
Wendy_w, Jul 2026
It was fun Just enjoying the ride and not having to paddle,. Pat, our guide was terrific. Very knowledgeable.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your review! We're so glad you enjoyed sitting back, relaxing, and taking in the ride. It's wonderful to hear that Pat's knowledge helped make your trip even more enjoyable. We'll be sure to share your kind words with him. We hope to see you again for another adventure!
Julia_D, Jul 2026
The guides were great! Jake was knowledgeable and so kind. He gave us a little bit of a history/area lesson. He made sure we were comfortable and asked us what we wanted out of the trip. He was very engaging and made the whole experience wonderful.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're so glad you had a wonderful experience with Jake. It's great to hear that he shared the area's history, made sure everyone was comfortable, and took the time to tailor the trip to what your group wanted. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words- Jake will be thrilled to know he helped make your adventure so memorable. We hope to welcome you back again soon!
Monique_M, Jul 2026
My husband and I had a fantastic time on our rafting excursion in Denali National Park! We chose the Class II-III option, which turned out to be more of a scenic float with a few fun rapids rather than an adrenaline-filled adventure. It was a great way to take in Denali’s beautiful scenery while enjoying time on the river.
Our guides were absolutely hilarious and kept everyone laughing from start to finish. Their energy, knowledge, and storytelling made the entire trip incredibly memorable and were a huge part of why we enjoyed it so much.
If you’re trying to decide between the two rafting options, it really comes down to your adventure level. The Class II-III trip is perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic experience. On this excursion, the guide does all the rowing, so you can sit back, enjoy the views, and take in the beauty of Denali. If you’re looking for a more exciting, hands-on rafting experience, I’d recommend choosing the Class III-IV trip instead. We had such a great time that we’d absolutely come back—and next time we’ll definitely opt for the Class III-IV rapids for a little more excitement!
They supplied a wetsuit, PFD (life jacket), helmet, and river shoes. The only thing not included was gloves, but they had them available for purchase, or you can simply bring your own.
Overall, this was a wonderful excursion with an outstanding guide team, beautiful scenery, and a well-organized operation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful float or a bigger adrenaline rush, they have an option for you. We’d definitely recommend it!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We're thrilled to hear you and your husband had such a fantastic time on the river.
It’s great to know you enjoyed the beautiful scenery and that our guides kept everyone laughing throughout the trip. We'll be sure to share your kind words with the team—they'll love hearing they helped make your adventure so memorable.
We also appreciate you taking the time to explain the differences between our rafting trips. Your description is incredibly helpful for future guests deciding which adventure is the best fit for them. And we're excited to hear you're already planning to come back for the Class III-IV trip—we'll be ready to help you tackle those bigger rapids!
Thank you again for recommending us. We look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable day on the river!
Jennifer_B, Jul 2026
Jake was our guide and he was AWESOME! We had a great experience especially being our 1st visit to Alaska! We had ages 13-50 in our group and would definitely recommend to anyone looking to really see Alaska!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We're so happy you chose to spend part of your first Alaska adventure with us. Jake has a real passion for sharing both the river and Alaska with our guests, so we're thrilled to hear he helped make your experience such a memorable one. It's especially great to know your entire group, had a fantastic time together.
Thank you for trusting us with a part of your Alaska vacation. We truly appreciate the recommendation and hope your first trip to Alaska won't be your last!
RickBrown, Jul 2026
Great trip. A lot of fun for all ages. Lots of class II and III rapids. Highly recommend. The rafting guides are excellent.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for the great review! We're so glad you had a fun trip and enjoyed the Class II and III rapids. It's wonderful to hear the adventure was enjoyable for all ages, and we'll be sure to pass along your kind words to our rafting guides. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you back on the river again soon!
Terrence_G, Jun 2026
Excellent staff and best web site, scheduling and check in a breeze. Atticus was excellent in his handling of raft and local knowledge even though new to crew 2 weeks ago.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad the booking, scheduling, and check-in process was smooth and easy for you. Atticus will be thrilled to hear your kind words. We’re happy his rafting skills and local knowledge helped make your trip memorable. Hope to see you on the river again soon!
Linda_D, Aug 2025
The wave raft trip we went on was a pretty chill ride. This specific tour is great for older people and children. The view from the raft was beautiful. Our guide, Tupelo was very knowledgeable which made the trip that much more enjoyable. It was a great experience.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for rafting with us! We’re so glad you enjoyed the relaxing Wave Trip and the stunning views of the Nenana River. Tupelo will love hearing your kind words—we’re lucky to have guides who know so much about the area and love sharing it with guests. We appreciate your recommendation for families and older adventurers!
Nicole_D, Aug 2025
The raft trip was fun, guide was excellent and helpful. Atmosphere and attitude of staff at location seemed to appeal to a younger crowd, not much effort at polite assistance. We wouldn’t suggest this company for mature adults.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for joining us on the river and sharing your experience. We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the trip itself and that your guide made it a great time on the water. This saddens me to hear the rest of my staff were dismissive to you, we are in the business of customer service and strive to ensure for the best customer experience. My apologies you did not receive the best. We will review what it means to provide the best possible service to our guests no matter the age. Thank you for your feedback back. Our goal is to create an atmosphere where every guest feels welcome and taken care of, and your feedback is a helpful reminder of that commitment.
Amy_S, Jul 2025
The Wilderness trip was so much fun! The staff made even the instructions and safety talk interesting to listen to. Our raft guide, Tupelo, worked hard while we enjoyed the ride down the river. Tupelo spotted a moose and her baby - so that made the trip extra exciting! Would 100% recommend.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Wow! Baby moose sighting is special. It's an wonderful experience getting away from the road and enjoying Alaskan wilderness by river. Thanks for rafting with New Wave.
JD_U, Jul 2025
Good trip. Guide was great. Just make sure you book the correct trip. There are two routes, the very moderate float called wilderness wave and the more adventurous canyon wave.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
We are pleased that you enjoyed your rafting adventure with us and we agree, we have some of the best guides in the industry. Our Wilderness Wave is designed to be family friendly and for those looking for a fun, easy-going day on the water. Our Canyon Wave is designed for those seeking a white water experience in swift-moving water with plenty of bigger rapids and wave trains. Every person should consider their comfort level when choosing which adventure to take.
MeredithJ_B, Jun 2025
Instructions for using equipment very good & entertaining. Trip was beautiful, staff was very helpful & efficient. It was just exciting enough for beginners but fun for experienced friends. It would have been helpful to have a little more information about wetsuits ahead of time and how to dress for the cold. We all got cold feet. But great experience. DO IT!!!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
We're sorry to hear that you were cold out on the river; it has been unexpectedly cold this season, but we're glad that you still enjoyed rafting with us. Thank you for sharing your experience and giving feedback.
Jim_S, Jun 2025
No was awesome. Funny, friendly informative. This was an awesome experience for our family. Thanks Bo for making it such fun!!!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Glad you enjoyed your trip. Our guides are the best!
Cheers,
Leslie
Darren_R, Aug 2023
Great experience even in the rain. Owen and Barbie were awesome guides! Lots of knowledge and experience. A must do adventure
Response from Host, Aug 2023
We are so glad to hear you had a great experience with New Wave Adventures rafting!!
Gregory_B, Jul 2023
This was a GREAT experience.
Everyone with Wilderness Wave was excellent.
Our raft captain BEAU was awesome.
He truly made my granddaughter
Lillys vacation super special, one she will not forget. He truly was FANTASTIC....
If I could ... I would rate this as 6 stars
And a must do.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
We are so happy to hear Beau provided a great experience for this Wilderness Wave trip. New Wave always is wanting to share special rafting trips with each rafter. Thank you for choosing New Wave.
❤️ from Denali, AK
Beth_K, Jul 2023
Great experience with Bryce. So much fun for the whole family. We had one young one (age 7-72 with us) but older kids wanted some fun splashes and rapids. He was able to adjust Wilderness Wave the trip to meet everyone’s desires. The teens guy soaked as they wished:) Great time, highly recommend. Also, good to note clothes underneath completely dry!
Response from Host, Jul 2023
New Wave is always glad to provide a fun-filled experience for all rafters of all ages. We are happy Bryce helped create a fun, fun memory on the Nenana River. Thank you for joining us.
❤️ from Denali, AK
She_R, Jul 2023
It was a great time! Wookie took great care of us. He even gave information about the areas we were in.
Felt very safe the whole time. He explained what to do.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
We are so glad you were able to raft with New Wave Adventures. Wookie is a great guide who enjoys sharing Alaska knowledge. We are glad you had a great time.
❤️ from Denali, AK
huttnerh, Jul 2023
Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable and did their best to give you the experience that you wanted. This was a great first time rafting experience!
Response from Host, Jul 2023
We are glad you had a great rafting experience!
John_B, Jun 2023
We as a family together loved the trip so much.we loved it dearly because of the history and getting wet
Response from Host, Jul 2023
We are always glad to know a family rafting trip with New Wave Adventures was enjoyable. Thank you.
Jose_F, Jun 2023
Great way to tour the area, fun family activity [felt safe all the time] and had an outstanding rafter “Pat” captain maneuvering the River and teaching us at the same time about the history and terrain.
Response from Host, Jun 2023
So glad you made family memories rafting the Nenana River with New Wave Adventures. Pat is a great raft captain.
❤️ from Denali, AK
Tiffani_W, Jun 2023
Great guides, friendly office staff and overall great experience! Beautiful scenery and knowledge of the area!
Response from Host, Jun 2023
Wonderful to hear your New Wave Adventure was a great experience.
❤️ from Denali, AK
Vickie_S, Jun 2023
The tour was great for beginners that have never rafted before. Level 1-3 rapids. Our guide Little Kyle was excellent! Very knowledgeable and personable!
Response from Host, Jun 2023
We are glad to hear you had such an amazing experience rafting with New Wave Adventures.
❤️ for Denali, AK
From $147.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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