Sunwapta Challenge Whitewater Rafting: Class III Rapids

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.

• 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.

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!

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
All day parking is located in the parking lot directly across the street.
You are required to check-in and sign waivers 15 minutes prior to departure time
Dress with a swimsuit underneath your street clothing and bring warm clothing for afterwards. It is also recommended to bring a drink and snack for after the tour
This trip runs in all weather conditions. Participants will be provided with all the necessary technical equipment including wetsuits, spray jackets, neoprene booties, helmets and lifejackets, however on cooler days, those prone to feeling the cold should bring either a fleece or wool jacket to wear underneath the spray jacket (no cotton should be worn)
Participants must be at least 12 years of age and weigh a minimum of 90 lbs (41 kg)
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Not recommended for those with back injuries
All departure times listed are in Alberta Mountain Standard Time Zone (MST)
The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Not wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travelers