Sunwapta Challenge Whitewater Rafting in Jasper

A 45-minute bus journey brings you to the arrival point where you will be given all the necessary equipment and will change into your wetsuit. You will be given an in-depth briefing on all rafting procedures and safety precautions before getting wet and wild on this turbulent ride.

‘Sunwapta’ is the Stoney Indian term for ‘turbulent river’ and this river lives up to its name. Traveling in 6 passenger self-bailing rafts, your expert guide will maneuver your group skillfully down the 13 kilometre stretch of river punching through a consistent flow of Class 2 rapids in between several sections of Class 3 whitewater.

Set in a pristine wilderness area of Jasper National Park, the Sunwapta is a low volume, technical river that follows the Endless Chain Mountain Range from its source at the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. You will be surrounded by spectacular Canadian Rockies scenery in a prime wildlife habitat, giving you the opportunity to spot elusive native wildlife from the raft or during the scenic bus ride.

All technical equipment will be supplied including paddles, wetsuits, long sleeve neoprene shirts, neoprene booties, paddle jackets and helmets. You will need to wear a swimsuit or a t-shirt and shorts under your casual clothes and be prepared to get wet. Bring dry clothes, a towel and on cooler days, wool socks to wear inside the booties, a fleece or wool sweater to wear under the splash jacket and a warm jacket to put on afterward. We recommend you bring snacks and water to enjoy on the bus to and from the river.