Overview
The Class 2+ Canyon Run rafting trip offers the ultimate family adventure and is suitable for families of mixed ages and apprehensive first time rafters.
The total round-trip time is 3.5 hours which includes 1.5 hours 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.
Highlights
A 30-minute bus ride brings you to the river put-in at the base of Athabasca Falls. There, you’ll be outfitted with everything you need, including a wetsuit to change into. Make sure you come prepared with your swimsuit on underneath your clothes, so you can be ready to raft the rapids 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.
As you embark, you will hear the thundering of Athabasca Falls plunging behind you. Your raft will join a turbulent stir of whitewater whisking you downstream as your guide expertly navigates the river, surrounded by the high rock walls of the Athabasca Canyon. In the first part of the 12 kilometre ride, you will punch through consistent sections of Class II rapids before the river widens and mellows to a float giving you a chance to relax. Take in spectacular views of the Athabasca Valley and perhaps even spot some local wildlife on the shoreline of this pristine environment.
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 afterward. In cooler weather, we recommend guests bring additional clothing (wool or polypropylene is best) to wear under their wet suits.
FAQs
Each raft holds 6-7 guests plus a licensed guide. Guides do their best to keep groups together, depending on group size and trip logistics.
Rafting trips run rain or shine. Wetsuits and life jackets help keep you warm, and on cooler days you can bring a fleece or wool layer to wear under your paddle jacket. Trips may be briefly delayed if lightning is near the river (mountain storms typically pass quickly).
Wear a swimsuit or swim shorts under your clothes. The tour includes a wetsuit, paddle jacket, neoprene booties, and life jacket. Bring a towel, dry clothes, and a warm layer for after your trip.
No swimming ability is required for the Canyon Run 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 Canyon Run is a longer 3.5-hour experience with about 1.5 hours on the water, featuring more rapids (around 8 sets) and unique canyon scenery, followed by a scenic float through the Athabasca Valley. The Athabasca Expressway is shorter (2 hours total) with fewer rapids (around 5 sets) and more calm floating sections—both tours are beginner- and family-friendly.
The full Canyon Run Rafting Tour takes approximately 3.5 hours, including shuttle, changing, and safety briefing. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on the water, rafting through canyon sections followed by scenic float stretches along the Athabasca River.
The Athabasca Falls Canyon Run 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 extra excitement.
No experience is required for the Athabasca Falls Canyon Run Rafting Tour. This Class 2+ whitewater rafting trip is beginner- and family-friendly, 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 Falls Canyon Run Rafting Tour
This trip starts at the base of Athabasca Falls and plunges through numerous rapids surrounded by high canyon walls. After the canyon stretch, rafters enjoy expansive views of the Athabasca Valley to the take-out. This is the ultimate family adventure — fun for adults and children alike.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate
AVAILABLE
June 8 - Sept 6, 20206
DURATION
3.5 hours
AGES
5+ years
Adult
Age 15 and over
$117 CA
Child
Ages 5-14
*Must be accompanied by an adult
$75 CA
+ 5% GST & 3% Parks Canada Government River Access Fee
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