Sunwapta Challenge Whitewater Rafting: Class III Rapids

Highlights

  • Make your way to a central location in Jasper, then travel 45 minutes to a put-in spot by the Sunwapta River in Jasper National Park. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes so you’ll be ready for a quick change into a wetsuit, neoprene booties, and a paddle jacket, and on cooler days, bring a pair of wool socks to wear inside the neoprene booties.  Meet the river guides for a briefing on white water paddling technique and safety, then hit the river in self-bailing rafts that accommodate up to six passengers. The name of the Sunwapta comes from the Stoney Indian term “turbulent river,” and during the highest-water months of mid-June to late July, it lives up to its name with a consistent mix of Class II and Class III rapids. Watch for wildlife at the edge of the water, as Jasper National Park is habitat for everything from tiny pikas to grizzly bears and moose, and enjoy views of the dramatic Rocky Mountain landscape. After roughly 1.5 hours on the water, steer to shore at a take out point—it’s a great idea to bring a towel and warm clothes to change into when you get off the river. This 4-hour whitewater trip concludes with return transfer to Jasper.

Summary

Make your way to a central location in Jasper, then travel 45 minutes to a put-in spot by the Sunwapta River in Jasper National Park. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes so you’ll be ready for a quick change into a wetsuit, neoprene booties, and a paddle jacket, and on cooler days, bring a pair of wool socks to wear inside the neoprene booties.  Meet the river guides for a briefing on white water paddling technique and safety, then hit the river in self-bailing rafts that accommodate up to six passengers. The name of the Sunwapta comes from the Stoney Indian term “turbulent river,” and during the highest-water months of mid-June to late July, it lives up to its name with a consistent mix of Class II and Class III rapids. Watch for wildlife at the edge of the water, as Jasper National Park is habitat for everything from tiny pikas to grizzly bears and moose, and enjoy views of the dramatic Rocky Mountain landscape. After roughly 1.5 hours on the water, steer to shore at a take out point—it’s a great idea to bring a towel and warm clothes to change into when you get off the river. This 4-hour whitewater trip concludes with return transfer to Jasper.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Take the Sunwapta challenge on Jasper’s wild whitewater rollercoaster ride. With a steep gradient and numerous rapids, this 4-hour round trip is the only Class 3 rapids located fully within Jasper National Park. It offers spectacular scenery and good wildlife opportunities. Don’t miss the high water mid-June to late July!

What’s included?

  • Highly experienced, certified river guide

  • All necessary technical equipment

  • Return transfers to and from the river, departing from our Downtown Location

  • Gratuities

  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

  • Food and drinks

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Maligne Adventures

About operator:

Jasper's Best Rafting is available only with Maligne Rafting Adventures. Class 3+ white water on the Fraser and Sunwapta Rivers offer great splashes and incredible scenery. Family friendly runs on the Athabasca River are a great way to spend a day in Jasper National Park. Join our Wildlife & Waterfalls tour to enjoy the best of Jasper's lakes and waterfalls. Daily departures at 9:30 showcase Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon and all the wildlife in between.

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