RAFT TRIPS

Boat & Paddle
Boat Options

What are the differences?
Please Note: Both options (the Oar Rider and the Paddle Rafter) will be on the same stretch of river, running the same waves.

OAR BOAT RIDER

This option allows you to play it cool and ride along. With an Oar Boat Rider, you can hold on and enjoy the adventure as your guide navigates you downriver. This option allows rafting in Alaska to be feasible for almost anyone. In an oar boat, guests are less likely to fall out because they are holding on.

Paddle Rafter

This option allows you to heat it up and actively paddle through the waves with your guide. We ask that guests are 15 years of age or older to paddle. In a paddle raft, you'll ride with a professional guide steering you from the back, while you and your team paddle together. There are plenty of breaks from paddling for you to relax and enjoy the views of Denali National Park. The Paddle Rafter demands a higher activity level than riding along in an oar boat. This option is the best for the more adventurous crowd.

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TRIP EQUIPMENT

What type of gear do we use?

Rafts 

  • Four 18 ft rafts

  • Six 16 ft rafts

  • All manufactured by Hyside 

  • Hypolonoe material

  • Multi-chambered 

  • 9 ft oars for 16 ft rafts 

  • 10 ft Cataract oars for 18ft rafts

Helmets and Personal Floatation Device (PFD)

  • Man of rubber 

  • Adjustable 

  • Wear hats underneath

  • US coast guard certified PFD

DRYSUITS 

  • Gull 

  • Neoprene necks for comfort 

  • Several sizes to fit almost everyone

  • State of the art waterproof material 

  • Will keep your clothes dry

PADDLES

  • Hyside 

  • New Wave Branded 

  • 48”

  • Only for use in Paddle Rafts

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

To stay warm and comfortable during your trip, the following items are recommended:

  • Non-cotton base layers, like polyester or wool, yoga pants, long johns, or snug-fitting clothes to wear underneath the drysuit

  • 2 pairs of non-cotton socks to help stay warm (your feet will be dry but, they will be sitting in the bottom of the raft)

  • Rain jacket

  • Eyeglass retainers like Chums or Croakies

We Provide:

  • Professional River Guide

  • 18ft or 16 ft Hyside commercial raft 

  • GCX3 Breathable Gull Drysuits

  • Type 5 Personal Floatation Device PFD

  • Helmet

  • Paddle if needed

  • River shoes

  • Transportation to and from the river

  • Courtesy shuttle from Hotel to Excursion 

  • A safe location to store your personal belongings during the raft trip

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THE Nenana River

The Nenana River is formed by glacial runoff. Please be aware that water temperatures will be cold – just a couple of degrees above freezing. Your clothes will keep you warm and the drysuits will keep your clothes dry, if you put the drysuit on correctly.  It is easier to cool off than to warm up when rafting. Overdressing is the safest bet to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable time.

You will be given river shoes, so you will not get your shoes wet during the trip. Your hands and face are the only body parts exposed to water. After the trip, you’ll return to the office, take the drysuit off, and be able to go on your next adventure. The weather is unpredictable in Alaska, so it’s advisable to bring a rain jacket.