Overview
Experience Jasper’s Roller Coaster!
Take the Sunwapta challenge, known as Jasper’s wild water rollercoaster ride. It has a steep gradient with numerous class 3 rapids. Don’t miss the high water from mid-June to late-July.
A 45-minute bus trip takes you to the launch point where you’ll be given all technical equipment. You’ll be given an in-depth safety and instruction briefing before getting wet and wild.
“Sunwapta” is the Stoney Indian term for “turbulent river” and this river lives up to its name. Set in a pristine wilderness area, this is a low volume, technical river that follows the Endless Chain Mountain Range from its source at the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. Traveling in 6 person self-bailing rafts, your expert guide will maneuver skillfully down the 13 km stretch of river, punching through a consistent flow of Class 2 rapids in between several sections of Class 3 — including a locally-renown rapid named ‘The Whopper’!
Minimum weight: Rafters on Class 3 rivers must weigh a minimum of 90 lb/41 kg
Highlights
You’ll be surrounded by spectacular Canadian Rockies scenery in a prime wildlife habitat, allowing the occasional chance to spot elusive wildlife from the raft or during the scenic bus ride.
The total round-trip time is 4 hours which includes 1.5 hours on water, instruction/ safety briefing and all transfers to and from river. Suited to individuals looking for an exhilarating whitewater ride. No experience necessary! Rafters must be at least 12 years and weigh a minimum of 90 lbs (41 kgs).
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
Wear a swimsuit or swim shorts under your clothes. The tour includes a wetsuit, paddle jacket, neoprene booties, life jacket, and helmet. Bring a towel, dry clothes, and a warm layer for after your trip.
Yes, the Sunwapta River Rafting Tour uses paddle-assist rafts, meaning all guests can paddle.
Each raft holds 6 guests plus a licensed guide, creating a fun, team-based experience as you work together to navigate the fast-flowing Class 3 rapids. Guides do their best to keep groups together, though this cannot be guaranteed.
The Sunwapta River features fast, continuous Class 3 rapids in a narrow channel, creating an adrenaline-packed ride.
The Fraser River offers larger rolling waves in distinct sets with calmer stretches, plus a short portage and optional swim at the end. Both are beginner-friendly, exhilarating Class 3 rafting experiences.
No swimming ability is required for the Sunwapta River Rafting Tour. All guests wear a life jacket, wetsuit, and helmet, and falling out of the raft is very unlikely when following your guide’s instructions.
The full Sunwapta River Rafting Tour takes approximately 4 hours, including shuttle, safety briefing, and changing. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on the water, with a scenic 40-minute shuttle each way to the river.
The Sunwapta River Rafting Tour is suitable for ages 12 and up, with a minimum weight of 90 lbs (41 kg). All minors must be accompanied by an adult and must meet the minimum requirements on the day of the trip.
No experience is required for the Sunwapta River Rafting Tour. This Class 3 whitewater trip is beginner-friendly and adrenaline-packed, 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
Sunwapta River Rafting Tour
Enjoy the only Class 3 rafting located fully within Jasper National Park. This trip offers turbulent rapids, spectacular scenery and good wildlife opportunities. Great for physically active first-timers and experienced rafters.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate
AVAILABLE
June 20 - Aug 23, 2026
DURATION
4 hours
AGES
12+ years
WEIGHT
Must be at least 90 lb / 41 kg
Per Person (with Bus)
Age 12 and over
$132 CA
Per Person (self-drive option)
Age 12 and over
$117 CA
+ 5% GST & 3% Parks Canada Government River Access Fee
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