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Wilderness Wave Rafting Trip

Guided
See all whitewater rafting trips in Denali National Park
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Wildlife
Shuttle Included
Beginner Friendly
Free Cancellation
Instant Book
Duration: 3.5 hours

Pricing

Rafter

Ages 12+

$147
Child Rafter

Ages 5-11 • Minimum Weight requirement 50lbs. (22.67Kg)

$130

All Prices

Rafter

Ages 12+

$147
Child Rafter

Ages 5-11 • Minimum Weight requirement 50lbs. (22.67Kg)

$130

Description

Denali National Park Rafting - Wilderness Run Scenic Rafting Trip

Experience the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness on the "Wilderness Wave" rafting trip, where you'll float along the natural boundary of Denali National Park. This scenic adventure takes you through 11 miles of glacially carved valleys, offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Fellows, Sugarloaf, and Mount Healy. 
As you float down the river, the landscape opens up around you—towering peaks, rolling hills, and untouched wilderness as far as the eye can see. The crisp air carries the faint scent of pine and glacial water, while the calm flow of the river allows you to fully take in the breathtaking scenery. With only the occasional gentle rapid to add a splash of excitement, this mellow tour is perfect for the whole family. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the area’s rich history, wildlife, and natural wonders, giving you a deeper appreciation for the incredible landscape surrounding you.
Whether you choose to join the crew as a Paddle Rafter for a more active adventure, or prefer to sit back and let the guide take control as an Oar Boat Rider, you’re guaranteed a fun and memorable ride.  Whatever floats your boat, the Wilderness Wave is an ideal way to experience Alaska’s untamed beauty.

Duration

 3.5 Hours | 11 Miles

 Location / Where to Meet

New Wave Adventures Office - Mile 239 Parks Hwy, Denali, Alaska 99755
We can provide a free shuttle pickup within the Healy area.
We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time to allow for check-in and any final preparations.

Ages & Requirements

  1. Oar boat – 5+ years
  2. Paddle boat – 15+ years
  3. Minimum weight - 50lb/(23kg)
  4. Please note that a minimum of 5 rafters must be booked in order for the tour to run. If this minimum is not met, the trip will be rescheduled for a different time slot. 

What's Included

  1. Experienced guides
  2. All rafting & safety equipment
  3. Drysuit to keep your clothes dry
  4. River Shoes - You will leave your shoes behind, so you return to a nice dry pair of shoes.
  5. PFD - This is a personal Flotation Device, also known as a lifejacket
  6. Helmet - This adjusts like a baseball cap. You can wear hats under the helmet, preferably hats without a pompom on them.

Not Included

  1. Photos available for purchase 
  2. Tips for guides and staff

What to Bring / Wear

We recommend wearing warm layers, especially warm socks, to keep comfortable while rafting on a glacial river.
  1. Base Layer: Thin long-sleeve shirt or thermals.
  2. Mid Layer: Long-sleeve sweater, sweatshirt, fleece, or vest.
  3. Outer Layer: Light puff jacket (preferably without a hood) and a rain jacket.
  4. Gloves: A thin glove layered with dish gloves is an effective way to keep your hands warm.
  5. Socks: Wool socks or thick winter socks (like ski socks) are ideal. You can also layer two socks and use toe warmers in between.
  6. Reusable water bottle.
Reminder: Your clothes keep you warm; our suits keep you dry.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY New Wave Adventures

FAQs

Wilderness Run Rafting Itinerary

1. Pick-up/Arrival at Office- Arrive at the office for check-in.

2. Check-in & Waiver Signing- Sign required waivers and use the restroom before gearing up.

3. Dressing into Dry Suits- Receive drysuit and dressing instruction

4. Shuttle to River Put-In- Travel by shuttle to the river launch site.

5. Safety Orientation- Listen to safety briefing to prepare for the trip.

6. Rafting- Enjoy your rafting adventure on the river.

7. Takeout & Gear Load- Reach the takeout point and load up your gear.

8. Shuttle to Office- Return to the office by shuttle.

9. De-suit- Take off your dry suit.

10.  Drop-off at Hotel- Return to your hotel for a relaxing end to the day.

Is there a minimum number of guests?

Please note that a minimum of 5 rafters must be booked in order for the tour to run. If this minimum is not met, the trip will be rescheduled for a different time slot.

What should I wear and what about shoes?

Leave your shoes at the office, and we’ll provide river rafting shoes. Dress warmly and bring socks as the water is cold. Your clothes keep you warm, and the dry suit keeps you dry. Only your hands and head may get wet.

What's the difference between an oar boat and a paddleboat?

In an oar boat, the guide does all the work while you enjoy the ride. In a paddleboat, you actively paddle, making it more adventurous. Both rafts navigate the same rapids.

Can I still raft if I can't swim?

Yes! You’ll wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD to keep you afloat, and our guides provide thorough safety training before your trip.

Do you take photos? Can I bring my camera?

We’ll take professional photos. We discourage bringing handheld cameras as they may get lost. You are able to bring you phone, we recommend it has a strap or is in a waterproof case.

Can I bring anything with me on the trip?

Personal items are not allowed, except for special medications, which can be carried by your guide.

Which hotels do you pick up at?

  • Denali Cabins
  • Denali Park Village
  • Grizzly Bear
  • Visitor’s Center Bus Stop
  • Riley Creek Mercantile Bus Stop
  • Grande Denali
  • Princess & Holland America
  • Denali Bluffs
  • Salmon Bake

What drysuit sizes do you have?

Minimum Fit: XXS

  • Weight: 50lbs
  • Neck: 10"
  • Wrist: 4.5"

Maximum Fit: XXL-Tall

  • Chest: 50-52"
  • Waist: 44-48"
  • Hips: 48-52"
  • Weight: 235-265 Ib
  • Height: 6'4"-6'6"

Cancellation Policy

A 24-hour notice is required for cancellations. Trips run rain or shine. If we cancel your trip, a full refund will be issued. Canceled Canyon Wave trips will be rebooked to Wilderness Wave or refunded. No refunds for wrong arrival times/location.
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Availability

May 2027
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Reviews

Location

Address

38758 George Parks Hwy.

Denali, AK, 99755

US

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