Kayaking & Rafting
Kayaking and rafting in Alaska are among the greatest outdoor thrills the state
offers. With thousands of rivers and boundless coastal waters, there is ample
opportunity to raft and kayak in several different regions of the state.
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PhotoBy: Michael DeYoung
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Rafting makes a fun group or family activity
Rafting can be a thrill ride or a lazy meander, depending on what type of river and
rafting tour you choose. Near Denali National Park, one of the most popular
activities is to raft the Nenana River. Tours range from an hour or two to a
full day. Another popular rafting option is on lakes studded with chunks of ice
that have broken off of nearby glaciers. Guides bring rafts up next to icebergs
so visitors can have their picture taken and see the crystal-blue ice up close.
Kayaking is available in just about all of Alaska’s coastal towns. Kayaks are
available for rent, or you can take a guided tour. Kayaks come in one-person
and two-person varieties. Renting your own kayak requires some experience, but
most companies that rent kayaks are happy to provide visitors with instruction
and advice to get them on their way. Kayaking in Alaska is one of the best ways
to view marine wildlife up close. Sea lions, otters, seals and whales are
frequently spotted while on the water, and spotting animals from a kayak
provides a sense of awe that is hard to match from the deck of a large ship.