Jasper Athabasca River: Family-Friendly Whitewater Rafting

Experience a whitewater rafting adventure that fits easily into your Jasper sightseeing day. Located just a short drive from downtown Jasper, this 8-km (5-mile) stretch of the Athabasca River combines five sets of fun, splashy Class 2 rapids with peaceful stretches of flowing water in between. Paddle with your guide through the river’s changing pace, taking in mountain scenery from a different perspective and keeping an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks. With approximately one hour on the water and a complete round trip of around two hours, “The Expressway” offers a genuine whitewater experience without taking up half your day. No previous rafting experience is required, making it a great choice for families, first-time rafters and anyone looking to add rafting to a day of exploring Jasper.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Know Before You Go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Participants must be at least 5 years old.
• Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian.
• No previous rafting experience is required.
• Wear a swimsuit under your regular clothes to make changing into rafting gear easier. Bring a towel and warm clothing for afterward, plus water and a snack.
• Wetsuits, paddle jackets, life jackets and neoprene booties are provided. On colder days, bring an additional fleece, wool or other non-cotton layer to wear under your paddle jacket.
• Trips depart rain or shine.
• Check in 15 minutes before your scheduled departure at the white Maligne Rafting van in the public parking lot at the corner of Connaught Drive and Hazel Avenue (638 Connaught Drive, Jasper).
• All participants must complete a liability waiver before rafting.
• All departure times are in Alberta Mountain Time (MT).
• The complete experience takes approximately 2 hours, including transportation, changing, safety briefing and approximately 1 hour on the river. Return times are approximate and may vary due to traffic and river conditions.
• Minimum participant numbers apply. If minimum numbers are not met, you will be offered an alternative departure or a full refund.
• Raft assignments are made at the guides' discretion based on group size and safety considerations. We will make every effort to keep parties together.