Tour / Activity Description

COVID-19 Procedures

By order of the Government of Alberta, masks, government-issued identification, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid test completed within the last 72 hours are currently required for your visit.

Alberta public health measures are being phased out in 3 steps, beginning with lower-risk activities. The province enters Step 1 on February 9, 2022.  As of February 14, children ages 12 and under no longer are required to wear face masks. In Step 2, tentatively set to begin March 1, 2020 if hospitalizations are trending downward, indoor masking for adults will no longer be required and businesses will no longer be required to reduce capacity. The timeline for Alberta entering Step 3 (the final step) and the specific guidelines at that time are to be determined and will depend on hospitalization rates continuing to trend downward.

Adult rafters are currently required to wear a non-medical mask while on the Raft Bus shuttle.  Masks are also required when physical distancing cannot be maintained, and most likely on the rafts.  These rafting trips are currently still planned to operate at reduced capacity.

Your E-Ticket will have a link to check the latest Alberta COVID regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are we on the river? -- Duration of "on the river time" is between 60 and 90 minutes (depending on water levels and weather).

Who can go on a rafting trip? -- This float trip on the Athabasca River that is suitable for the whole family. Toddlers and grandparents alike can enjoy this safe cruise down the World Heritage Athabasca River and together appreciate the fun of watching others get splashed. Guides have accommodated disabled people, ninety seven year olds, people with oxygen tanks, people in wheel chairs, pregnant women...you name it!!! Please consult your physician to determine whether you can endure a trip which can be over 1.5 hours in duration.

What should I wear? -- Jasper is located in the Canadian Rockies, a location that is known for its unpredictable and quickly changing weather systems. One should be prepared for all types of weather even on the most beautiful summer days. One should also be prepared to get splashed by the Athabasca waters as guides try to allow everyone to experience the fun of a float trip. Wetsuits are not provided and they are not necessary for this float trip, but guides do provide a plastic rain poncho to protect you from splashes and potential rain showers.

Do the boats have engines? -- Trips operate in the pristine wilderness of Jasper National Park and engines are not allowed on the rivers within the Park boundaries. This ensures that you will have a peaceful float down the river surrounded by the majestic peaks of this World Heritage site.

Can I bring a camera? -- Yes, many people have brought cameras and even video cameras on these trips - but the possibility for getting splashed exists, so you bring your camera at your own risk. Waterproof cameras are a good idea. 

Will there be a picture of our trip? -- A professional photographer will take your photo of your raft trip, and you will have the opportunity to purchase the photo at the end of the trip.

What class is the Athabasca River? -- Rivers are rated on a scale of one to six; class I is calm moving water, class VI being Niagara Falls. Relax, the section of the Athabasca River that you'll raft on is rated as a Class II meaning that there are some sections with rapids that do little more than get your backside wet! Therein lays the fun!

Are there restroom facilities available during the trip? -- There are restroom facilities at the launch site of the raft trip, but there will be no stops along the river. The only chance for a rest stop is at the end of the trip where there are also restroom facilities.

Can our group be on the same boat? -- Our 25 ft. rafts can accommodate up to 24 people, so most groups can fit on one raft. In the case of large groups, guides can ensure that your boats stay close throughout the trip.

Do I have to paddle? -- No. Highly trained guides do all the rowing so that you can sit back and enjoy the scenery and the fun.

What if I can't swim? -- This float trip is safe for the whole family, swimmers and non-swimmers alike. Guides also provide everyone with a personal floatation device.

Is there transportation included? -- Yes, this tour includes pickup from select Jasper hotels and roundtrip transportation from Jasper Train Station to the raft trip.

What if I wear glasses? -- Eyeglasses and sunglasses should fit snug; if not, they should be secured using a sport strap of some kind. Loss is at your own risk. Contact lenses are rarely a problem.

Will I need to sign a liability release? -- Yes. As with all adventure activities these days, you will be asked to sign a waiver form before you are allowed to participate in the float trip.

What if it rains? -- Jasper Raft Tours provides rain ponchos for the trip, so rain is no excuse for not rafting. In fact, rafting is one of the few activities that are just as much fun on a rainy day in the mountains! However, guides do recommend that you dress appropriately for inclement weather. (In other words, don't wear shorts and a T-shirt when it is cold and rainy.)

Should I tip my guide? -- Highly trained guides are used to give you the best experience possible. Gratuity is NOT included in the tour price. If you think that your guide did a good job, feel free to show your appreciation with a gratuity.

Minimum age is 2.  Tour includes pickup from hotels within the town of Jasper.  Rates are per person in US dollars.  Please order online or call us at 212-852-4822 to order or for more information.