Overview
Family Friendly Whitewater
From novice to age ninety, no experience is necessary on the Athabasca River which is rich with historic references and scenic beauty.
A short bus ride brings you to the Athabasca River put-in where you will be given all the necessary equipment and will change into your wetsuit. Being prepared with your swimsuit on under your clothes allows you to be suited up and ready for the river in record time! Your highly experienced, certified guide will give an overview on all rafting and safety procedures before you jump onboard the 6-7 passenger, self-bailing raft.
Highlights
You will raft along a wide, 5-mile (8km) section of the Athabasca River, aptly named the Expressway. The river winds its way through an incredibly scenic valley, surrounded by rocky mountains. You’ll raft down flowing stretches of water, peppered with 5 sets of fun and splashy Class 2 rapids as you take in the pristine surrounds.
This adventure is ideal for families with children but anyone looking for an unforgettable introductory experience on the river will love this excursion.
The total round-trip time is 2 hours which includes 1 hour on the water, instruction/safety briefing and all transfers to and from the river. These trips do not require any previous experience and are suited for individuals aged 5 years and above, looking for an introductory whitewater adventure.
Prepare
What we provide
Licensed raft guides, self-bailing rafts, paddles, wetsuits, booties, paddle jackets, life jackets and helmets (if applicable).
What to wear
A swimsuit or shorts under casual wear is best. Clothing worn under wetsuits gets wet, so bring a towel and warm clothes for afterwards. In cooler weather, we recommend guests bring additional clothing (wool or polypropylene is best) to wear under their wet suits.
FAQs
The Athabasca Expressway is a 2-hour experience with about 1 hour on the water, featuring Class 2 rapids and scenic floating sections.
No swimming ability is required for the Athabasca Expressway Rafting Tour. All guests wear a life jacket and wetsuit, and falling out of the raft is very unlikely when following your guide’s instructions.
The full Athabasca Expressway Rafting Tour takes approximately 2 hours, including shuttle, changing, and safety briefing. You’ll spend about 1 hour on the water, rafting through 5 sets of Class 2 rapids combined with scenic float stretches on the Athabasca River.
The Athabasca Expressway Rafting Tour is suitable for ages 5 and up. All minors must be accompanied by an adult, and children can choose to paddle, sit securely in the raft, or hold the front rope for the biggest splashes.
No experience is required for the Athabasca Expressway Rafting Tour. This Class 2 whitewater rafting trip is ideal for beginners, with licensed guides providing full safety instructions and paddle guidance throughout.
Looking for more details?
Where to Meet
Please check in 15 minutes prior to your rafting trip departure at the black Maligne Rafting Trailer located in the pop-up business village: 637 Connaught Drive (corner of Connaught Drive and Hazel Avenue — next to the public washrooms and across from the Shell gas station).
All-day paid public parking is available in this lot, including limited RV spaces. All guests will be required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival.
From Adventurers
Athabasca Expressway Rafting Tour
From novice to age ninety, no experience is necessary on the Athabasca River which is rich with historical references and scenic beauty. The flowing water is peppered with fun and splashy rapids. This is the ideal river for timid first timers and families with children.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Minimal
AVAILABLE
May 16 - Jun 7 & Sep 7 - 20, 2026
DURATION
2 hours
AGES
5+ years
Adult
Age 15 and over
$97 CA
Child
Ages 5-14
*Must be accompanied by an adult
$55 CA
+ 5% GST & 3% Parks Canada Government River Access Fee
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