As the largest and most sparsely populated state in the US, Alaska offers unparalleled opportunities for kayaking enthusiasts. With its vast wilderness, stunning coastline, and abundant wildlife, Alaska is a paddler’s paradise. From the glaciers of Prince William Sound to the fjords of Kenai Fjords National Park, and from the tranquil rivers of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge to the mighty Yukon River, Alaska has something to offer every type of kayaker. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best kayaking destinations in Alaska, including sea kayaking and river kayaking options, and provide valuable information on guides, gear, tides, wildlife, permits, and weather.
Sea Kayaking Destinations
Alaska’s coastline offers some of the most spectacular and rugged sea kayaking in the world. With its numerous fjords, bays, and inlets, kayakers can explore glaciers, witness an array of marine wildlife, and experience the raw power of the ocean.
Prince William Sound (PWS)
Located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Prince William Sound is a kayaker’s dream destination. With its stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, PWS offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the sound’s many fjords and bays, including Blackstone Bay, Harriman Fjord, and College Fjord. The town of Whittier, located at the head of the sound, is a popular launching point for kayaking trips. GPS coordinates for Whittier: 60.7733° N, 148.6833° W.
Kenai Fjords National Park
Located near the town of Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination for sea kayakers. The park’s stunning fjords, glaciers, and mountains offer a breathtaking backdrop for kayaking, and the park’s abundant wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and puffins, provide endless entertainment. Kayakers can explore the park’s many fjords and bays, including Aialik Bay, Holgate Glacier, and Pedersen Glacier. GPS coordinates for Seward: 60.1042° N, 149.4428° W.
Glacier Bay National Park
Located in southeastern Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular kayaking destinations in the world. The park’s stunning glaciers, fjords, and mountains offer a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. However, kayakers must obtain a permit from the National Park Service before entering the park. The town of Gustavus, located near the park’s entrance, is a popular launching point for kayaking trips. GPS coordinates for Gustavus: 58.4167° N, 135.7333° W.
Inside Passage
The Inside Passage is a 500-mile stretch of coastline that winds its way through the panhandle of Alaska. The passage is dotted with numerous islands, fjords, and bays, offering endless opportunities for sea kayaking. Kayakers can explore the passage’s many coves and inlets, including Tongass Narrows, Frederick Sound, and Tracy Arm. The towns of Juneau, Haines, and Skagway are popular launching points for kayaking trips.
Kachemak Bay
Located near the town of Homer, Kachemak Bay is a popular destination for sea kayakers. The bay’s stunning scenery, including towering mountains, glaciers, and fjords, offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the bay’s many coves and inlets, including Halibut Cove, Seldovia Bay, and Kasitsna Bay. GPS coordinates for Homer: 59.6453° N, 151.5483° W.
Resurrection Bay
Located near the town of Seward, Resurrection Bay is a popular destination for sea kayakers. The bay’s stunning scenery, including towering mountains, glaciers, and fjords, offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the bay’s many coves and inlets, including Caines Head, Tonsina Point, and Fox Island. GPS coordinates for Seward: 60.1042° N, 149.4428° W.
River Kayaking Destinations
Alaska’s rivers offer a unique and exciting kayaking experience. From the tranquil waters of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge to the mighty Yukon River, Alaska’s rivers offer endless opportunities for kayaking.
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Located on the Kenai Peninsula, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination for river kayakers. The refuge’s many rivers and lakes, including the Kenai River, Swan Lake, and Swanson River, offer a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the refuge’s many canoe trails, including the Swan Lake Canoe Trail and the Swanson River Canoe Trail. GPS coordinates for the refuge: 60.5333° N, 150.6333° W.
Yukon River
The Yukon River is one of the longest and most iconic rivers in North America. Stretching over 1,980 miles from its source in Canada to its mouth in the Bering Sea, the Yukon River offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the river’s many tributaries and sloughs, including the Tanana River, the Koyukuk River, and the Nowitna River. GPS coordinates for the Yukon River: 62.5667° N, 140.5333° W.
Chena River
The Chena River is a popular destination for river kayakers. Located near the town of Fairbanks, the Chena River offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the river’s many tributaries and sloughs, including the Tanana River and the Salcha River. GPS coordinates for Fairbanks: 64.8433° N, 147.7333° W.
Gulkana River
The Gulkana River is a popular destination for river kayakers. Located near the town of Glennallen, the Gulkana River offers a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. Kayakers can explore the river’s many tributaries and sloughs, including the Copper River and the Tonsina River. GPS coordinates for Glennallen: 62.1167° N, 145.5333° W.
Guides and Outfitters
While it’s possible to kayak in Alaska without a guide, hiring a guide or joining a guided tour can be a great way to explore the state’s many kayaking destinations. Guides can provide valuable information on the local wildlife, geology, and history, as well as help kayakers navigate the state’s many rivers and coastal waters. The cost of hiring a guide can range from $200 to $400 per day, depending on the location and type of trip.
Some popular guide services and outfitters in Alaska include:
- Alaska Kayak Company: offers guided sea kayaking trips in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
- Kenai Fjords Tours: offers guided sea kayaking trips in Kenai Fjords National Park
- Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks: offers guided sea kayaking trips in Glacier Bay National Park
- Yukon River Canoe: offers guided river kayaking trips on the Yukon River
Tides and Bore Tides
Alaska’s coastal waters are known for their extreme tides, with some areas experiencing tides of over 30 feet. Kayakers must be aware of the tides and plan their trips accordingly to avoid getting stuck in shallow water or swept out to sea. The Cook Inlet, located near Anchorage, is particularly notorious for its extreme tides and bore tides.
A bore tide is a rare and spectacular phenomenon that occurs when a high tide wave crashes into a narrow inlet or bay, creating a wall of water that can be several feet high. Kayakers must be aware of the bore tide schedule and plan their trips accordingly to avoid getting caught in a bore tide.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Alaska for kayaking is from May to September, when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. However, kayakers should be prepared for unpredictable weather, including rain, wind, and cold temperatures, even in the summer months.
Gear List
A dry suit is essential for kayaking in Alaska, as the water temperatures can be as low as 35-50°F (2-10°C). Other essential gear includes:
- Drysuit
- Paddling jacket and pants
- Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic)
- Waterproof bags and containers
- First aid kit
- Repair kit (including patch kit, duct tape, and spare paddle)
- Navigation tools (including compass, chart, and GPS)
- Communication devices (including VHF radio and satellite phone)
Safety Tips
Kayaking in Alaska can be hazardous, especially for inexperienced kayakers. Some essential safety tips include:
- Always wear a properly fitting life jacket
- Be aware of the weather forecast and sea conditions
- Bring a first aid kit and know how to use the items in it
- Bring a repair kit and know how to use the items in it
- Bring a communication device, such as a VHF radio or satellite phone
- Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time
- Be prepared for hypothermia, which is the #1 killer of kayakers in Alaska
Getting There
Alaska is accessible by air, land, or sea. The state’s major airports include Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). The Alaska Highway connects Alaska to the rest of North America, and the Alaska Marine Highway System provides ferry service to many coastal communities.
Costs and Permits
The cost of kayaking in Alaska can vary widely, depending on the location, type of trip, and services required. Some essential costs and permits include:
- Glacier Bay National Park permit: $10 per person per day
- Kenai Fjords National Park permit: free, but required for some areas
- Yukon River permit: $10 per person per day
- Guide services: $200-400 per day
- Rental gear: $20-50 per day
For more information on permits and regulations, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/.
Wildlife Viewing
Alaska is known for its abundant and diverse wildlife, including whales, sea lions, seals, bears, moose, and eagles. Kayakers can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife on their trips, including:
- Humpback whales: common in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
- Orca whales: common in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
- Sea lions: common in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
- Seals: common in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
- Bears: common in many areas, including Katmai National Park and the Kenai Peninsula
- Moose: common in many areas, including the Kenai Peninsula and Interior Alaska
- Eagles: common in many areas, including Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park
In conclusion, Alaska offers some of the most spectacular and diverse kayaking opportunities in the world. From the stunning glaciers of Prince William Sound to the mighty Yukon River, kayakers can explore a wide range of rivers, fjords, and coastal waters. With its abundant wildlife, rugged scenery, and unpredictable weather, Alaska is a kayaker’s paradise. However, kayakers must be prepared for the challenges of paddling in Alaska, including extreme tides, cold water, and remote wilderness areas. With the right gear, knowledge, and planning, kayakers can have a safe and unforgettable experience in Alaska.