Athabasca Canyon Rafting: Class 2+ rapids for families
Eight to nine rapids in a canyon carved by rock walls, then the river opens to views of the Canadian Rockies.
Athabasca Canyon rafting is a Class 2+ whitewater activity starting at the base of Athabasca Falls, where you navigate high canyon walls in a 6-passenger self-bailing raft before the river mellows into scenic valley views. A certified guide leads the 3.5-hour trip, which includes a 30-minute bus ride to the put-in, all technical equipment, and return transfers from downtown. Children from age 5 are welcome. No previous rafting experience is needed.
What’s included
- Certified river guide leading the raft.
- return transfers from downtown.
- all technical equipment including wetsuit, neoprene booties, paddle jacket, life jacket and paddles.
- 30-minute bus ride to the put-in at Athabasca Falls.
Times
Next departure: 14 Jun 2027
Before you book
Operated by Maligne Adventures
Traveler reviews
The experience
The day starts with a 30-minute bus ride to Athabasca Falls, where you'll gear up in a wetsuit, neoprene booties, and paddle jacket, all supplied. Your certified guide covers safety and technique before you board the 6-passenger raft and push into the whitewater downstream. The thundering falls fade behind you as the canyon walls rise, and you'll paddle through 8 to 9 sections of Class 2+ rapids. The current does most of the work on an introductory run like this, so the guide's job is mostly to keep the raft lined up and call out when to paddle hard.
After the canyon stretch, the river opens and the pace slows. This is when you can actually look around: at the high rock walls you just came through, the Canadian Rockies beyond them, and the shoreline where local wildlife sometimes appears. The Athabasca Valley spreads out around you, and the raft drifts through the calmer water. You'll have time to catch your breath and take in the landscape without the roar of rapids.
Wear a swimsuit or t-shirt and shorts under your street clothes, and bring dry clothes and a towel for after. On cooler days, pack wool socks, a fleece, or a warm jacket to layer under the spray jacket: cotton won't work because it holds water. You can bring snacks and water for the bus ride and afterwards. The trip runs in all weather, and you'll get wet no matter what, so dress for that. All-day parking is across the street from the Shell station on Connaught Drive.
Is this one for you?Small groups of up to six paddlers share one raft, which means you're not isolated on a crowded commercial trip. The guide knows everyone's name and can adjust the pace. Families with kids from age 5 fit well here because the Class 2+ rapids deliver whitewater without the intensity of a harder run, and the calm valley stretch at the end gives younger paddlers a chance to recover and enjoy the scenery.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 14 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What are Class 2+ rapids like if I've never rafted before?
Class 2+ rapids on the Athabasca Canyon run are manageable for first-timers: they have waves and splashes but no dangerous drops or technical moves. The certified guide controls the raft's line through the canyon, and your job is to paddle when instructed and hold on. Eight to nine sections means you get the feel of whitewater without being overwhelmed, which is why the trip suits families and tentative beginners.
Can my 5-year-old come rafting?
Children from age 5 are welcome on this trip, and you'll need to confirm your child's age with Maligne Adventures before the date. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult in the raft. The Class 2+ rapids and the 6-passenger raft size make this manageable for young kids on an introductory run.
What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?
The rafting trip includes a certified guide, return transfers from downtown, and all technical equipment: wetsuit, neoprene booties, paddle jacket, life jacket, and paddles. You bring a swimsuit or t-shirt and shorts to wear under your street clothes, plus dry clothes and a towel for after. On cooler days, bring wool socks, a fleece, or a warm jacket to layer underneath the spray jacket. Gratuities and food or drinks are not included, though you can bring snacks and water for the bus ride.
How long is the whole experience from start to finish?
The trip is 3.5 hours total, which includes the 30-minute bus ride to Athabasca Falls, gearing up, the rafting itself through the canyon and valley sections, and the return bus ride to downtown. The exact duration of the transfers depends on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Where do I meet, and is there parking?
You depart from the downtown location. All-day parking is available in the lot directly across the street from the Shell Gas station on Connaught Drive. Public transportation options are also nearby if you prefer not to drive.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip runs in all weather conditions, so rain, wind, or cold won't cancel it. You'll be provided with all necessary technical equipment including wetsuits and spray jackets to keep you dry and warm. On cooler days, layering a fleece or wool jacket under the spray jacket helps if you're prone to feeling the cold.
Athabasca Canyon Rafting: Class 2+ rapids for families
3h 30m · EN
from CA$ 126.68 per person
≈ US$ 92 in your currency
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