Anyone raft the Nenana?
 

We're thinking of signing up for the Canyon Run on the Nenana with Alaska Raft Adventures while visiting Denali. Has anyone made this trip with this operator? We will already be doing the scenic float on the Kenai earlier in the week and now also want to try something with a few more thrills. Thanks!

We talked to a rafting outfitter in Talkeetna, and they told us it's not whitewater rafting. But you could spot some wildlife along the way. We didn't sign up because we were looking for whitewater rafting.

Thanks JC, maybe we should revise our plan and just spend a 2nd day hiking in the park.

This was discussed a bit on your previous post. It's not heavy duty whitewater and there are better runs in Alaska.

... But if the water levels are right the Class IV on the Nenana is fun -- it's just not up to the Six Mile. Veteran rafters might be underwhelmed on the Nenana (because so many people think Alaska thrills are bigger and better than Lower 49 options -- and it's not the case here), but if you enter with expectations of moderate whitewater you can have fun.

You'll be in Class II-III and probably light Class IV:

# Class 2: some rough water--the line is easy to see and pursue
# Class 3: whitewater but very safe for larger rafts; kayakers and canoeists should have good rolling or self-rescue skills
# Class 4: whitewater for experienced paddlers only; the route through the rapids may require quick maneuvering.

Thank you repete, and your answers to my previous post helped us very much to decide NOT to go on the Six-Mile run. We've never rafted before and had a feeling it would be a little too much for us - at least for our first trip to Alaska :)

It sounds that our physical abilities are better matched to the "whitewater" of the Nenana. AND we're able to visit Denali to boot!

Since we'll be doing a float on the Kenai, we *don't* want to do another one on the Nenana. Even class II or III will probably give us a fun day. I can't wait!