New Wave Combo Rafting Trip

Guided

Duration: 5.5 hours

Healy • Denali National Park

Features

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Wildlife

Shuttle Included

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Instant Book

$240 Rafter

(Ages 12+)

$0 Combo

(2nd Part of Combo -Canyon - (Included in total price! • Please select the same # as above))

Description

Denali National Park Rafting - Wilderness + Canyon Run Combo

Experience the full range of the Nenana River in one unforgettable journey—starting with a peaceful scenic float and ending with heart-racing whitewater. This adventure combines the Wilderness Run and Canyon Run into a single, seamless adventure that to experience all the Nenana River has to offer.

Begin your journey on the calm, meandering waters near the entrance of Denali National Park. As you float through this stunning landscape, your guide will point out landmarks like Mount Healy, Mount Fellows, and Sugarloaf, rising dramatically above the river corridor. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—harlequin ducks, bald eagles, and even the occasional moose can be spotted along the shoreline. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the sights, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Alaska.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. After soaking in the tranquility of the upper section, the river shifts—and so does the tone of your trip. Enter the Canyon Run, a thrilling stretch of Class III–IV whitewater known as the Canyon Wave Section. Hang on as the pace picks up and you tackle a gauntlet of action-packed rapids like Razorback, New Wave, and Train-wreck. Cold spray, churning water, and pure adrenaline make this the wild side of the Nenana River.

Whether you’re in a paddle raft, powering through the rapids as part of a team, or riding in an oar raft, letting your guide do the work while you enjoy the ride, this full-length river run is the best way to experience both the serenity and the intensity of Alaskan rafting.

Duration

5.5 Hours | 22 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

Oar boat – 12+ years

Paddle boat – 15+ years

What's Included

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

Not Included

Photos available for purchase
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.

Base Layer: Thin long-sleeve shirt or thermals.
Mid Layer: Long-sleeve sweater, sweatshirt, fleece, or vest.
Outer Layer: Light puff jacket (preferably without a hood) and a rain jacket.
Gloves: A thin glove layered with dish gloves is an effective way to keep your hands warm.
Socks: Wool socks or thick winter socks (like ski socks) are ideal. You can also layer two socks and use toe warmers in between.
Reusable water bottle.

Reminder: Your clothes keep you warm; our suits keep you dry.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY New Wave Adventures

FAQs

New Wave Combo 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