Denali National Park

Denali Rafting Adventures

The Nenana River is the natural eastern boundary of Denali National Park. Denali Outdoor Center (D.O.C.) offers a variety of river rafting options on over 40 miles of navigable waterway through spectacular scenery. Wildlife sightings are always a possibility during your river adventure as well. D.O.C. has rafting options for all ages and ability levels, from 2 hour Wild-water thrills for the most adventurous to 2 hour Mild-water floats for ages 5 and up or a combination of “Mild to Wild”.

GO MILD

The peaceful Scenic Wilderness begins at a quiet section of river next to Denali Grizzly Bear Lodge & Campground, at Mile 231 Parks Highway. From there, the river flows for 12 miles through the mountains of the Alaska Range, with the road out of sight for almost the entire two hours. You'll enjoy Class I and II rapids on this stretch, plus one Class III rapid where you're liable to get splashed.

On occasion, rafters are lucky enough to see Dall sheep at the base of Mount Fellows on river right, and you might spot a bear or a moose. But the real star of this show is the scenery. Your guide will tell you about the river and the passing scenery, such as Musher's Monument—a natural rock formation on top of Mount Fellows, which looks like a musher and dog team. You'll notice how the river turns siltier and even more powerful when it is joined by the rushing Yanert River, which enters from the east, flowing from the Yanert Glacier just about 30 miles away. The scenic journey ends when the Parks Highway crosses the river at Mile 238.

GET WILD

That's also where the exciting wild-water of the Canyon Run begins. For the next two hours and 11 miles, the Nenana River picks up speed and power as it winds through the Nenana River Canyon. Exploding waves and strong hydraulics are now commonplace as you bounce through Class III and IV rapids with names like Razorback, Iceworm, and Royal Flush.

You'll charge through giant waves in Cable Car Rapid, and when you float under the highway bridge high overhead, the walls of the canyon seem to close in. Now the river is narrow and at some higher water levels, rushing with a loud roar. Although Dall sheep often appear up high on river right, you won't be looking for them—you'll be hanging on and anticipating the next splashy wave. Once you bust through the final "Narrows" rapid with its churning hydraulics and wayward currents, the river returns to a more peaceful pace and you can relax before the takeout on the Healy Spur Road.

TWO RAFTING OPTIONS

Choose either a “Paddle Raft” for hands on action with a professional guide calling commands, or an “Oar Raft” where passengers hold on and enjoy the ride as their knowledgeable guide navigates the rapids.

Rafting is a great activity for families and groups looking for a shared and affordable outdoor experience. Advance reservations are highly recommended as this is a very popular activity conveniently located near the entrance to Denali National Park. D.O.C. provides free local shuttle service from all area hotels, accommodations, Alaska Railroad Depot and campgrounds.

All guests should remember to dress appropriately in long sleeve layers with polar fleece, other synthetics or wool recommended for insulation. A full, one piece “Drysuit,” (the most protective river apparel available) will be provided along with a Coast Guard approved PFD and river booties. Paddlers will also wear a helmet and be given a paddle.