Six Mile Creek Rafting - 3 Canyon Adventure

Both trips take place on Six Mile Creek in Alaska, one of the most exciting whitewater rivers in North America. The difference is how much of the river you run.

The 2 Canyon trip runs the first two canyons of Six Mile Creek and features exciting Class IV rapids. It’s a great introduction to whitewater rafting on Six Mile Creek and is open to guests ages 12–65.

The 3 Canyon trip continues into the final canyon, which is the most technical section of the river and includes Class IV and Class V rapids. This full Six Mile Creek rafting adventure is recommended for guests seeking the most challenging experience and is open to ages 16–65.

Guests on the 2 Canyon trip may have the option to continue into the third canyon if conditions allow and guides determine the group is a good fit.

No rafting experience is required. However, Six Mile Creek rafting is physically active whitewater, so participants should be comfortable in moving water, capable swimmers able to pass a swim test, and prepared for a high-energy outdoor adventure. Your guides will provide a full safety briefing and paddling instructions before the trip begins.

All Six Mile Creek rafting trips include a mandatory in-river swim test before launching.

The swim test allows guests to:

• Experience the river current in a controlled environment
• Practice basic self-rescue techniques
• Build confidence in the water before the trip begins

This swim is short, supervised by guides, and takes place in a suitable section of the river.

Six Mile Creek Alaska is considered some of the most exciting roadside whitewater in the state.

• 2 Canyon Trip: Class IV rapids (challenging)
• 3 Canyon Trip: Class IV & V rapids (very challenging)

Both trips feature narrow canyon channels, powerful waves, steep drops, and fast-moving current.

While no prior rafting experience is required, guests should be comfortable with physical activity and the possibility of falling into moving water.

In Alaska, river conditions can change dramatically due to fluctuating water levels. Unlike dam-controlled rivers, natural, free-flowing waterways are highly variable and can significantly affect the intensity and safety of trips. High water levels are more serious than low water, potentially increasing the difficulty of Class IV river sections to Class V conditions.

To maintain safety, Nova uses strict water-level cutoffs and may make necessary adjustments such as changing boat types, group sizes, or even canceling trips. Our guides monitor USGS gauges daily and are authorized to make on-the-spot safety decisions, including trip denial.

Environmental conditions may also impact the length of your trip. If a trip is canceled due to unsafe conditions, guests will receive a full refund or may reschedule.

Boat Load Guidelines:

• High Water: Max 5 people per boat
• Low Water: Max 4 people per boat
• Ideal Group Size: 4–5 people (to fill your own boat)
• Smaller groups may be combined with consent

All trips involve active participation, and oar-assisted boats are used in high water for enhanced control.

Boat size depends on river conditions.

Typical boat loads:

• High water: Maximum 5 guests
• Low water: Maximum 4 guests

Ideal group size is 4–5 guests per raft.

Smaller parties may be combined with other guests to create balanced boats.

Summer daytime temperatures near Hope, Alaska typically range from 55–70°F.

Trips run rain or shine, so dressing in warm layers under your dry suit is important for comfort.

Yes. Restrooms are available at the Six Mile Creek check-in location.

Once you are suited up in your dry suit, restroom access will not be available until the trip is complete. Please use the facilities before gearing up

Whitewater rafting on Six Mile Creek is physically demanding and not recommended for individuals with:

• Serious cardiac conditions
• Respiratory illnesses such as severe asthma, COPD, or emphysema
• Limited mobility or coordination
• Medical conditions that could impair judgment or physical ability

Participants cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If you are unsure whether this trip is appropriate for you, please contact the office before booking.

Please plan extra travel time, as Alaska highways often experience delays due to construction, RV traffic, or accidents.

If you arrive late and miss the trip departure, the tour may leave without you. Staff may attempt to reschedule if space is available, but missed trips are generally considered a no-show and are not refundable.

Yes, adventurous first-time rafters can participate, but the 3 Canyon Six Mile Creek rafting trip is very physically demanding and includes Class IV and Class V rapids.

Participants should be strong swimmers, comfortable in moving water, able to pass the mandatory swim test, and ready for an intense whitewater experience.

Whitewater rafting, like any outdoor adventure, carries certain risks due to the unpredictable nature of the water and terrain. However, we take safety very seriously. All our trips are led by highly trained and experienced guides who are certified in swiftwater rescue with medical certifications ranging from Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness First Aid, and First Aid-CPR based on role. While the risk of injury is minimal when safety guidelines are followed, it’s important to remember that, as with any adventure activity, there are always some inherent risks. Our goal is to ensure you have an exciting and safe experience on the water. If you have concerns about your safety or any specific health conditions, feel free to speak with our guides or staff before booking your tour.

You will be well-prepared! Our guides will ensure you are informed about safety procedures and best practices during the pre-trip briefing. You’ll learn how to react and what to do in case you fall out of the raft, so you’ll feel confident and ready for the adventure ahead.

River classifications, established by the American Whitewater Association, indicate the technical difficulty and skill level required for navigating the river. These are represented using Roman numerals from I to VI.

For a detailed understanding of river classifications, check out our overview of the Whitewater Rafting Class System.

Yes, we recommend making a reservation to secure your spot on the tour. Space fills up quickly, especially during the peak summer season.

Making a reservation guarantees you can enjoy the adventure you’re looking forward to without any issues. Plus, we have an extremely generous cancellation policy, so if your plans change, you can modify or refund your reservation.

Of course! We love giving back to our community and making adventures more accessible to everyone. We offer several exciting discounts!

• Local Alaskans: If you’re a local, you can enjoy a 10% discount on the individual tour price by showing your State-Issued ID at check-in.
• Military Discount: We’re proud to offer a 10% discount to all active duty and retired military personnel with valid ID.
• Combo Discount: Want to make the most of your time in Alaska? Book any combination of these trips and enjoy a 10% discount on your entire adventure! Our popular Matanuska River Lions Head trip and Matanuska Glacier Tour combo is a fantastic way to experience two incredible activities in one day.

There is no public transportation available, and at this time, we do not provide transportation. The only way to reach our tour check-in areas is by rental car or RV.

We ensure that our professional guides are paid a living wage. That said, our guides work hard, and if you feel inclined to show your appreciation with a tip, they are always grateful for the gesture. It’s not required, but it’s certainly appreciated.

Yes, we advocate for and protect the conservation of Alaska’s natural spaces. We follow a responsible travel ethic and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles when exploring these incredible places. Since our inception, one of our core values has been showing people how to love, appreciate, and contribute to the preservation of Alaska’s special places.