Navigating the Nenana River Since 1974

Established in 1974, Denali Raft Adventures is the original rafting company on Alaska’s Nenana River, just outside Denali National Park. As a family-owned and operated business, we specialize in providing unforgettable Alaskan rafting experiences, combining thrilling whitewater action with stunning natural landscapes.

Our Story

Our journey began when Jim Raisis moved from California to the Denali region in the 1970s. Jim, originally a raft guide and mechanic, partnered with Valerie, a raft guide, in 1989. Falling in love with the area’s beauty, they made Denali their permanent home, raising their son, Demetrios, who now continues their legacy as the current Operations Manager.

Our Commitment

At Denali Raft Adventures, we believe that adventure is for everyone. Our tours are designed to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment where people of all experience levels feel comfortable and supported. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or an experienced adventurer, our knowledgeable guides ensure that you have the tools and encouragement to enjoy the experience to the fullest.

We are committed to making Denali Raft Adventures a safe space where everyone can connect with nature, have fun, and feel empowered. We strive to create an atmosphere where guests can relax, enjoy, and celebrate the beauty of the Nenana River and Denali without feeling pressured or out of place.

The Nenana River and Denali Region

The Nenana River, a glacial river, forms the eastern boundary of Denali National Park and is one of Alaska’s most popular rafting destinations. It offers a variety of rapids suitable for different skill levels, making it ideal for both novices and experienced rafters. The river’s unique path includes a U-turn through the Alaska Range, creating a wide, low corridor that has favored the construction of both the Alaska Railroad and the Parks Highway.

Denali National Park, encompassing over six million acres, is home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali. Established in 1917, the park offers diverse ecosystems, from forested lowlands to glacial highlands, providing a habitat for a wide array of wildlife. It’s a haven for mountaineers, hikers, and adventurers seeking to experience Alaska’s raw, untouched wilderness.

Environmental Stewardship

At Denali Raft Adventures, we are deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty of Denali and the Nenana River.

But our commitment goes beyond maintaining the beauty of the area—we aim to inspire that same sense of care and respect for the outdoors in everyone who joins us. Through our actions, our guides share their love for Denali and the river, showing guests how to enjoy these pristine landscapes responsibly. It’s not just about experiencing the beauty of Denali; it’s about fostering a lasting appreciation for nature and encouraging guests to protect it long after they leave.

We believe that by sharing our passion for the land, we can inspire others to become stewards of the environment, embracing the same sense of responsibility and care. Every rafting trip we guide is an opportunity to cultivate a deeper connection with nature, reminding us all that protecting these wild places is a shared responsibility, and it’s through these shared experiences that we can make a real impact.

Fun Facts

Denali is home to the tallest peak in North America, standing at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters).

The Nenana River is glacial-fed, giving it the unique grey color that visitors love to see while rafting.

The area around Denali is one of the best places in Alaska to spot wildlife like moose, bears, and river otters!

Dry Suit Sizing

Our XXL suit should fit up to 6’6″ & 260lbs, and our XS childrens suit should fit a minimum of 3’6″ & 35lbs. Be aware unless you try the suit on there is no way to be sure it will fit. If we cannot accommodate a guest with a suit a refund will be issued. We only refund for the person(s) who cannot be issued a suit, or in the case of a minor we will refund for the child and one adult. Everyone out on the water MUST wear a drysuit, there are no exceptions.

Refer to the sizing guide below:

Dry suits provide the most comfortable rafting experience possible. Our drysuits come with either latex or neoprene gaskets at the neck, and wrists. All suits have latex socks to keep your feet dry. The only body part that should get wet will be your hands and face. Raft in comfort in and out of the water with a full range of movement. Dry suits were developed for people working and/or playing around freezing cold water providing you with a waterproof exterior layer to wear over your own insulating layers. We provide neoprene booties that slip over the latex sock allowing your feet to warm themselves with your own body heat. A Coast Guard approved Type V lifejacket is provided.

Please note: If you happen to have a latex allergy we will provide you a neoprene suit and ask that you wear thick socks to create a barrier between the latex socks and your skin.

The Nennana river is a glacially fed river with typical temperatures ranging just above freezing, to safely and successfully raft it you’ll need to dress appropriately.

We’ll provide the essentials:

• Gore-Tex drysuit
• Neoprene booties
• Personal flotation device

A quick note about your shoes: You’ll leave them at our office since you won’t need them on the river, but don’t worry — we’ll keep them safe!

The drysuit keeps the water out, but it doesn’t keep you warm, so be sure to layer up for the chilly river conditions!

Here’s what we recommend wearing:

• Pants or long johns
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Fleece jacket
• Wool socks
• Warm hat

If the weather is warm please plan to still wear long sleeves and pants, though it may be best to leave the jackets, hats and gloves at home.

Pro Tip: If you tend to get cold easily, throw on some waterproof gloves (we’ve got some available at the office!). Extra layers are always better — you can always cool off in the river if you get too warm, but if you’re cold, it’s much harder to warm you up!

• Eyeglass retainers are recommended if you wear glasses or sunglasses! We’ve got them at the office too
• Leave your wallet, keys, and extra clothes with us at the office or store valuables in your car. We’re not responsible for lost or stolen items, so keep those precious things safe!