Alaska Rafting Excursions with Class II, Class III and Class IV Rapids

Rafting trips in Alaska have the power to transport you to another world that is nothing like the one from which you came. Massive walls of ice rising hundreds or even thousands of feet into the sky around you are not something easily found in the lower 48 states. The chance to paddle past a shore on which black bears or entire herds of musk oxen feed is an attraction that even New York City or Orlando cannot duplicate.

Hulahula River

Although it may sound as though it should be in Hawaii, the Hulahula River offers cold whitewater action that starts north of the Arctic Circle. To raft this river, you will have to book a flight from Anchorage that takes you 300 miles north. The Hulahula River offers Class III and Class IV rapids as it slices through mountains and provides views of valleys, cascading waterfalls and ancient rock formations. The best way to travel this challenging Alaska river is on a raft, but very experienced paddlers can try it with a kayak. Because the river is so tough to handle, you will want to provide yourself with extra time to stop along its banks so you can rest while you enjoy all the scenery that makes this trip so memorable.

Newhalen River

The Newhalen River can be found in the Alaska Peninsula that juts out from the southern border of the state. You must fly to Iliamna and then take an air taxi to the Upper Landing put-in point to begin your ride down this huge river bubbling with whitewater rapids. Beginners and novices should try this one only with very experienced guides. The Class IV rapids give way to a Class V drop, or you can portage around it by taking a mile-long trail. Anglers should take heed that the Newhalen River is filled with salmon.

Lake Creek

Lake Creek is a fine choice for those without the necessary experience to handle Newhalen or who can't make the effort required to raft down the Hulahula. The rapids on Lake Creek rated Class II and Class III. Those looking to test their skills will find some demanding rapids roughly halfway through the trip. To get to Lake Creek, fly out of Anchorage to Chaletna Creek and arrange pickup at the Yentna River confluence. Bring along some camping equipment--there are several campgrounds available as you make your way down the river. Bring your camera, too, because several of these campsites provide unobstructed views of Mt. McKinley rising into the sky. Bring your fishing gear as well, because the catches are excellent from July into early August.