Athabasca Canyon Run Family Rafting: Class II Plus Rapids

Recommended by 100% of travelers

Jasper, Canada

Great choice

10+ bookings last month.

3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

5.0

· James_H ·

Aug 2025

Being new to rafting, we chose the Canyon Run trip and it was outstanding. We saw 2 bull elk & osprey. Our guide Eric is absolutely stellar. Maligne Rafting has all new rafts, gear and wetsuits for rafters. Despite the 2024 fire, there's plenty of beauty. DO wear a swim suit, you'll completely change clothes into safety neoprene suits. We had great fun.

· Craig_J ·

Sep 2025

Fantastic rafting through the beautiful Jasper wilderness. Amazing mountain views. Wonderful guides, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Perfect tour for families even with youngsters.

Explore our promoted experiences

Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island

Jasper, Alberta

4.6

(474)

Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island

from $152

Jasper, Alberta

4.4

(438)

Jasper SkyTram Roundtrip Flight Ticket

from $60

Jasper, Alberta

4.9

(448)

Athabasca River Mile 5

from $77

Viator earns higher commissions on experiences featured here

Overview

Not all white-water rafting tours are extra exhilarating. Paddle through the dramatic Athabasca Canyon on a half-day white-water rafting adventure from Jasper that takes on fun, family-friendly Class 2+ rapids. You’ll start at the base of Athabasca Falls, then paddle a 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) stretch of river with a certified river guide. This half-day rafting excursion includes all equipment and transport from downtown Jasper, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

All equipment is provided for a hassle-free experience
Pickup from a centrally located meeting point
Choice of morning or afternoon departure times
This beginner-friendly option is an ideal choice for families

What's Included

Highly experienced, certified river guide
All necessary technical equipment
Return transfers to and from the river, departing from our Downtown Location

Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Food and drinks

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

638 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada
Check-in 15 minutes before your tour at 638 Connaught Drive (Corner Connaught Dr. & Hazel Ave) — next to public washrooms & across street from Shell gas station. Look for black Maligne Rafting trailer.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Make your way to a departure point in downtown Jasper, where you’ll board a bus for the trip to Athabasca Falls. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes for a quick change to a wetsuit, then join the river guide for a briefing on rafting technique and safety.

Grab a paddle and climb into a six-passenger white-water raft, then leave the shore with the thundering sounds of Athabasca Falls just behind you. The guide will steer you into the current as you paddle into a channel between the high rock walls of Athabasca Canyon.

You’ll take on a series of fun, exciting Class II rapids, then the river will flatten out for the relaxing final stretch. After a couple hours on the water, the guide will steer you back to shore for the return trip to Jasper, where this tour concludes.

Please note: Wetsuits, neoprene booties, and paddle jackets will be provided, as you’re sure to get wet while splashing through the rapids. Wear a swimsuit and bring dry clothes and a towel, as well as wool socks and a warm, post-paddle jacket for cooler days.

Athabasca River

Maligne Adventures

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
All day parking is located in the parking lot directly across the street from Shell Gas station on Connaught drive
All departure times listed are in Alberta Mountain Standard Time Zone (MST)
Children must be a minimum of 5 years of age. Children ages must be confirmed to Maligne Adventures before date of rafting experience.

Dress with a swimsuit underneath your street clothing and bring warm clothing for afterwards. It is also recommended to bring a drink and snack for after the tour
This trip runs in all weather conditions. Participants will be provided with all the necessary technical equipment including wet-suits, spray jackets, neoprene booties and life-jackets, however on cooler days, those prone to feeling the cold should bring either a fleece or wool jacket to wear underneath the spray jacket (no cotton should be worn)
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
No Pets – Service Dogs with Valid Paperwork Only
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travelers

Supplied by

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

James_H

Reviews

5.0

based on 193 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Fantastic rafting adventure down the beautiful Athabasca River.

Craig_J, Sep 2025

Fantastic rafting through the beautiful Jasper wilderness. Amazing mountain views. Wonderful guides, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Perfect tour for families even with youngsters.

Response from Host, Sep 2025

Hi Craig, thanks for letting us know how much you enjoyed your Athabasca River raft trip with Maligne Adventures. The guides will love your positive comments as well.

Such a fun experience!

Cassandra_K, Aug 2025

Collin was a fantastic guide down the Athabasca river. Ready to do a class 3 rapids as class 2 we didn’t have to do much which was to be expected since it’s for little kids. But still so much fun and my favorite experience so far in Jasper/Banff vacation.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Hello and thanks so much for your great review of your Athabasca Canyon run on the river with Maligne Adventures. Glad you had fun and now you will have to come back and run the Fraser River (3+) Regards

Great fun, very safe

James_H, Aug 2025

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Hello James Thank you for your great review of your recent Athabasca Canyon raft trip with Maligne Adventures. We appreciate hearing that Eric was able to provide you with such an outstanding experience. We will be certain to pass your comments on to him. Regards

First time rafters!

Stephanie_S, Aug 2025

This experience exceeded expectations. I chose the level 2 family option as my youngest is 10 and we had never been before. From start to finish the company made everything so easy and enjoyable. Check in was easy and everyone was very friendly. Employees answered questions about the area on the bus ride to the starting point. Mini learning session before setting into the water was great for us first time rafters. Our captain, Collin, was friendly and made the experience fun for everyone. My 10 year old was able to sit in the front of the raft in the center and she got SOAKED! She loved every minute of it as we paddled and pushed through the water. Collin was great at giving directions and knew we were in it for a full experience, lots of splashes!! My three daughters (and the parents) even had a chance to steer the boat at the end of the trip in calmer waters. We are definitely excited to try a level 3….when the youngest is old enough. Our first time white water rafting did not disappoint!

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're thrilled to hear that your first whitewater rafting experience was such a hit for the whole family. It’s wonderful to know your 10-year-old loved the splashes up front and that Collin helped make the trip both fun and memorable with his guidance and energy. We’re so glad the whole process felt easy and enjoyable—exactly what we aim for! We can’t wait to welcome you back when you're ready for the Level 3 adventure!

A real blast!!!

Shirley_B, Aug 2025

Awesome river trip! Very fun rapids😄 our river guide Thomas was very skilled at getting us into those fun rapids so we could get the best bang!!! Would highly recommend this trip for anyone that wants to have a fun day😉

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thanks for the awesome review! We’re so glad you had a blast on the river and got to experience the rapids to the fullest. Thomas will be thrilled to hear your kind words—he’s great at making the ride both exciting and safe. We really appreciate the recommendation! 😄

Perfect for beginners and first timers

Karen_E, Jul 2025

Perfect for beginners. We had a blast. Even tho it was raining. And cold..it was super fun. Loved our guide chris. He was fantastic

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Hello Karen, Great to hear that Chris made your first raft trip on the Athabasca Canyon Run with Maligne Rafting such a positive experience. We'll see you again on future adventures

Highly recommend this fantastic family float!!

Kelly_K, Jul 2025

The team was outstanding (Thomas was fun and really great with our crew of boys!) and the rafting was super safe but with just the right amount of thrill.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Hi Kelly Thanks for your great review of your recent Athabasca Canyon run raft trip with Maligne Adventures. We are happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed the adventure, and we look forward to seeing you again on future trips.

Amazing rafting experience

Jon_T, Jul 2025

Well organised from start to finish. Amazing experience and really good family fun. Highly recommend.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Thank you for the lovely review! We appreciate you joining our tour!

Great time on the Athabasca!

Julie_H, Jul 2025

We had an awesome adventure with Beth down the Athabasca River. Would 10/10 recommend to other families especially those who are new to whitewater and/or are hesitant around water. Beth, Mason and the whole crew did a great job ensuring that all members of our group felt comfortable, supported and were having fun the entire duration of our time on and off the river.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Hello Julie, thank you for taking the time to review your recent Athabasca River Raft trip with Maligne Adventures. Great to hear that Beth, Mason and the crew were able to make your experience comfortable and enjoyable. We will be certain to pass your comments on to them. Hope to see you on future adventures with us!

Maligne Adventures - Guides with passion

Michael_Z, Jul 2025

It was our first whitewater rafting trip and it was great, even for two senior citizens (one of which was apprehensive). But the guide was great and my wife quickly overcame her fears) The experience allowed to see Jasper national park from a different perspective- from the athabasca river. Lastly, while in Jasper, we too two tours with Maligne Adventures (wildlife and whitewater rafting.). Both of tour guides were great. They have a passive for both their job and nature. We loved seeing it and having them transfer their passion to us.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you for the awesome review! We love hearing that you had a great time on both your whitewater rafting trip and your wildlife search, and that your guides made your experience both comfortable and memorable!

Amazing views and experience!

Stephanie_K, Jul 2025

Wow, talk about a unique way to experience Jasper National Park! There are some truly incredible views of the mountains that you can only get from the river. The rafting experience itself is great - super safe and excellently guided. Everything you need is provided - just bring a towel and know that you'll either put your clothes back on over wet swimsuits or ride back in it. Your belongings during your time on the river are kept safe on the bus by the driver, who also runs around to get on-the-river pictures (thanks, Ty!). Our raft guide, Collin, was spectacular both in directing our raft and team as well as providing information about the surrounding mountains and river. Super impressed that this was only his first season! Eric was the other raft's guide on our trip, and his safety demonstration was one of the best I'd ever seen/heard - equal parts engaging and informative. Overall, even though the company lost everything in the 2024 wildfire and started back up from scratch, they run an impressively smooth operation from start to finish! Highly recommend!

Response from Host, Jul 2025

What an incredible review — thank you so much! We're thrilled you had such a memorable time on the river and got to experience Jasper from such a unique perspective. Those mountain views from the raft really are something special! Huge kudos to Collin, Ty, and Eric — we’re so proud of the entire team, and it means the world to hear they helped make your trip safe, smooth, and full of fun. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words! Rebuilding after the 2024 wildfire has been a journey, and feedback like this reminds us why we do what we do. Thank you again for the recommendation — we’d love to have you back for another adventure anytime!

Excellent trip, exceptional guides

Nadine_C, Jul 2025

What an amazing adventure! Our guide, Chris, was exceptional and the entire raft had a blast! We will absolutely use this company again for our next river trip in Jasper 🙂

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thanks for the review Nadine. We will be certain to pass on your comments about your raft trip on the Athabasca Canyon run to Chris. See you next trip.

Great time!

Kreader, Jul 2025

Our guide Antwon was great! He was very friendly and talkative and very skilled maneuvering the raft!

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thanks for the review of your Athabasca Canyon run with Maligne Rafting. We will be certain to pass your comments on to Antoine, he will love the positive feedback.

Great fun for the whole family!

Ellena_B, Jul 2025

Brilliant experience with the family which we thoroughly enjoyed as part of our holiday in the Rockies. Eric was a knowledgeable guide who helped make it fun while ensuring we felt quite safe. Catching sight of a pair of ospreys was an added bonus.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Hello Ellena Great to know how much you and your family enjoyed your raft trip on the Athabasca River with Maligne Adventures, we will be certain to pass your comments on to Eric.

Perfect first rafting.

Chris_M, Jul 2024

This was my first time rafting and this package was great for a first timer. Plenty of instructions, safety demonstrations and all the equipment supplied. One of the best parts is that you're assisted with removing your wet suit at the end in a matter of seconds!

Response from Host, Jul 2024

Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your first rafting experience with us was such a success. Providing clear instructions, safety demonstrations, and all necessary equipment is crucial for ensuring a fun and safe adventure. We're glad you enjoyed the convenience of our services, including the quick removal of your wetsuit at the end. We look forward to welcoming you back for more thrilling adventures on the water! Regards, Maligne Adventures

Thank you

Mamdouh_M, Jul 2024

That was one of the experiences that all my family wanted to repeat it again and again. Maison, Thomas, Jesse, and Adam. We will never forget your care, safety, and fun. I wish you all the best.

Family Fun

Kristine_V, Jul 2024

My family of five loved this experience and the kids asked to go again. Our guide was friendly and professional and helped to make it a great experience! The scenery is beautiful and it was a great experience overall.

Response from Host, Jul 2024

It's wonderful to hear that your family had such a memorable and enjoyable experience with Mason, Thomas, Jesse, and Adam! Their care, attention to safety, and fun spirit clearly made a lasting impression. I'm sure they would be delighted to hear your kind words. If you have any more stories or if there's anything else you'd like to share, feel free to let me know. Wishing you and your family all the best in your future adventures! Regards, Maligne Adventures

Great experience

Lynne_M, Jun 2024

Had a wonderful guide! We didn’t take our cameras due to water risk, but uploaded the one they took. Very knowledgeable guides and super friendly!

Response from Host, Jun 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time and that our guides were knowledgeable and super friendly. It's great to know that you appreciated the photos we took, ensuring you could capture and remember your adventure without worrying about water risks. We strive to provide both safety and enjoyment for our guests.

Great family half day activity

sarah_H, Jun 2024

Fun and enthusiastic guide tatiyana. Great kit - could have done with harder rapids but was good fun none the less

Response from Host, Jun 2024

hank you for your feedback! We're glad to hear that you had fun with our enthusiastic guide, Tatiyana, and that you were pleased with the equipment. We appreciate your suggestion about having harder rapids and will take it into consideration. We're delighted that you still enjoyed the experience and had a good time.

Excellent

Anita_L, Jun 2024

This experience was fantastic. From the moment you get on the bus to the time you get back on it. Everything was clearly explained and the trip down the river itself was fun but exciting

Response from Host, Jun 2024

Thank you so much for sharing your fantastic experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed every moment, from boarding the bus to returning after your adventure. Our team strives to provide clear explanations and ensure that the trip down the river is both fun and exciting. It's wonderful to know that we succeeded in making your experience memorable.

Rafting

Kelly_B, Jun 2024

Ty was our guide & he was super knowledgeable & really upgraded our experience. We would highly recommend this to anyone wanting to enjoy the Athabasca River.

Response from Host, Jun 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that Ty was able to enhance your adventure with his knowledge and expertise. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're thrilled that you enjoyed exploring the Athabasca River with us. We strive to create memorable and enjoyable experiences for all our guests, and feedback like yours reaffirms our efforts.

WOW

Mark_P, Nov 2023

Absolutely fantastic experience. Great crew and explained everything and made sure everyone enjoyed.

Response from Host, May 2024

Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We're thrilled to hear that you had an absolutely fantastic experience with us. It's great to know that our crew provided clear explanations and ensured everyone had a great time. We appreciate you choosing us for your adventure and look forward to welcoming you back for more enjoyable experiences in the future.

Unbelievable experience...

Philip_P, Aug 2023

Unbelievable experience floating down the river trying to take in our surroundings. Very good guide who answered questions and told few stories. Very good safety bruefing

Response from Host, Sep 2023

Thank you for sharing your feedback about your recent Athabasca Canyon Run Family Rafting experience with us. We are thrilled to hear that your group had an unbelievable experience. It's great to know that your guide was not only informative but also engaged with you by answering questions and sharing stories. Our team aims to provide an enriching and enjoyable experience for our guests. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for another Maligne Adventure!

Great first time rafting

Pranav_K, Aug 2023

This was my first experience for white water rafting. Was able to get excellent views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. Had a great time and the tour guides were awesome too.

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on your first white water rafting experience with us. We're delighted that you had the chance to enjoy excellent views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. It's wonderful to hear that you had a great time and that our tour guides made the experience even more enjoyable. We hope your positive experience encourages you to explore more adventures in the future. Thank you for choosing us, and we look forward to the possibility of welcoming you back for more exciting outings.

Awesome Adventure if you haven’t rafted before

Colin_K, Aug 2023

We had a wonderful time on this rafting adventure. Caine, our guide, was great and we had so much fun with him.

Response from Host, Aug 2023

We're thrilled to hear about your fantastic experience on our Athabasca Canyon Run Family Rafting trip! Thank you for taking the time to share your positive feedback. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed your time on the river with Kain. We hope to see you next time in Jasper National Park!

Great raft trip for family even with kids

Daniel_u, Aug 2023

Awesome ride, even small kids (6 and 8y.o.) enjoyed it. The Guides were friendly, river was easy to ride.

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Thank you for sharing your awesome experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that the young adventurers had a great time on the Athabasca Falls Canyon Run. It's fantastic to know that your whole group enjoyed the ride! We hope to see you again for more splashes with us at Maligne Adventures!

Stunning views and fun

Victoria_J, Aug 2023

This is a nice introduction to rafting. Long parts were floating down her river rather than a thrill ride. Great instructor - Jesse.

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Hello Thank you for joining Maligne Rafting Adventures for the Athabasca canyon run with Guide Jesse! It seems you still had a fun trip even if it wasn't as exhilarating as you thought it would be. The river changes daily which affects the rapids! We hope you still enjoyed your time.

Worth every penny

Erika_H, Aug 2023

Enjoyed the view, and rapids…. Rain or shine it was a great experience. guides were knowledgeable and informative!

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Thank you for joining Maligne Adventures for the Athabasca Canyon run. Experiencing the view and the rapids in varying weather conditions adds a unique dimension to the adventure, and we are glad that you appreciated the experience regardless of the elements. Thank you once again for choosing us and for your positive feedback.

A great experience

George_D, Aug 2023

A fabulous way to see the Rockies and enjoy the rush of the rapids and then the quiet as we floated downstream in the slower water. A great experience

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Thank you for joining Maligne Rafting Adventures for the class 2+ Canyon Run, as a fabulous way to explore the Rockies and for sharing your feedback with us. We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the unique blend of excitement and serenity that our adventure offers. Experiencing the rush of the rapids and then transitioning to the tranquility of the slower water downstream is indeed a special aspect of rafting, and we are pleased that you found this combination to be a great experience. Thank you again for leaving a nice review.

Great family experience!

Matthew_W, Jul 2023

This was a great experience for my family. Our guide Kane was very knowledgeable and was great with the kids! Would definitely recommend!

Response from Host, Aug 2023

Thank you for joining Maligne Rafting Adventures for the Athabasca Canyon Run! Ensuring that our guests have a memorable and enjoyable time is of utmost importance to us, especially when it comes to families. We are delighted that Kane's knowledge and expertise contributed to creating a fantastic experience for you and your kids.