Gulkana River Scenic Rafting Trips

Alaska is known as a place of great beauty and mystery. From the spectacular aurora borealis to its period of twenty four hour sunlight, Alaska is truly a magical place to live and visit. Once only popular with the surliest of adventurers, Alaska is becoming a more attractive tourist destination with each passing year. Its popularity is largely due to its majestic landscape and amazing sightseeing opportunities. A scenic trip down the Gulkana River is just one of the popular activities for those visiting Alaska. 

The Gulkana River is located in south-central Alaska and runs for 47 miles from Paxson Lake to Sourdough. The river is designated as one of the United States’ Wild and Scenic Rivers and is very popular for rafting trips. Floating the entire length of the Gulkana River typically takes four or five days. Gulkana River scenic rafting trips are incredibly popular and are sure to entertain the entire family. 

Rafting trips down remote areas of the Gulkana River provide breathtaking views of the Wrangell St. Elias National Park. You will see amazing mountain vistas and float past established bald eagle nesting sites. You will be able to see fish wheels in action and on most days you can even spot a moose or a bear roaming along the shore. Other wildlife frequently spotted while taking a scenic trip down the Gulkana River includes beavers, bald eagles, caribou, and wolves. This is an amazing opportunity to witness these animals in their natural setting without the disturbance of technology and manmade structures. 

While traveling down the scenic Gulkana River you will encounter stretches of Class I, II, and III rapids. If you wish, there are also plenty of places to fish along the river, and even beginners are likely to catch plenty of fish. King salmon are prevalent during June and July and red salmon run from mid June through August. The Gulkana River is one of the best grayling fisheries and is also home to the most native population of rainbow trout in North America. The Gulkana River is perfect for families as the rapids are mild and the scenery is enchanting. Whether you rent your own boat or take a guided rafting trip, you are sure to have an experience you will never forget. Children and adults alike will gasp at the amazing Alaskan landscape and will be delighted with the abundant wildlife. 

While it is possible to go out on the Gulkana River for only one day, multi-day trips are more popular. Accessible from Anchorage, these trips typically last three days, but four and five day trips are available. Included in a river rafting package down the Gulkana River are ground transportation to the river, camping accommodations, gourmet meals, inflatable rafts, and all necessary safety gear. Experienced rafters are free to travel on their own, and instructions are available for first time rafters. You should remember to pack plenty of warm layers as even during the summer months Alaska can be quite chilly. You should certainly bring your waterproof camera to document all of the amazing sites you will take in on your scenic trip down the Gulkana River.