This is our most popular kayaking trip for good reason. The Knik Glacier serves as the signature backdrop for this trip. The Knik Glacier carved and shaped the valley we paddle in. There are unique signs of this river valley’s history everywhere you look. Our kayak guides look forward to sharing this gem with you.
4 Hours
Typical tour takes approximately 3-4 hours to kayak thought the river system.
Moderately Strenuous
This trip is open to beginner kayakers. However you need to be physically able to walk on uneven ground, walk though mud and carry 50 lbs up to 200 feet.
Snacks Provided
Assorted sodas, juices, water, coffee, hot chocolate, candy, granola bars, and chips.
Ages 5+ Welcomed
Per paying adult, one child aged 5 or younger may participate as a lap rider. Must contact us in advance to schedule.
The Knik Glacier is the largest glacier in South Central Alaska and is the headwaters of the Knik River. The river flows through the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. This glacier formed valley if teeming with wildlife such as moose, bear, bald eagles, and salmon. We will try to spot as much wildlife as we can. We will also stop at a view point along the route so that you can snap a photo of the might Knik Glacier. This trip has a diverse set of landscapes we kayak through-from marsh lands to a glacier formed river.
This tour starts and ends at Old Knik Bridge, once everyone is checked in we will transfer everyone to Jim Lake. After paddling across the lake there is a small, easy portage where we carry our kayaks to the creek. The creek is slow moving and very relaxing AKA the Bayou of Alaska. After following the creek we will come to a river delta and sand dunes….Depending on the water level we may need to carry / tow our paddle crafts. This section of the tour will include hiking through loose glacier silt/sand, for up to a quarter mile depending on water levels. This section of the tour you will have the best view / photo opportunities of Knik Glacier in the distance. After the dunes, we begin the last part of our journey, on the Knik River. The Knik River is glacier fed so no jumping in unless you want a very cold bath. The Knik River has a strong but slow moving current that takes us to the Old Knik River Bridge and back to your car.
There is one port a potty near Jim lake, otherwise there are just bushes so please plan accordingly. This tour takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to complete. Completion times can vary depending on natural factors outside of our control such as water levels, flow rates on the rivers, wind speed / direction of wind, and sand conditions in the dunes. On this trip we have seen a variety of wildlife including, river otters, beavers, eagles, salmon, ducks, owls, porcupines, moose, and coyotes. This trip has a diverse set of landscapes we kayak though from marsh lands to a glacier formed river. This trip takes place in a woodland setting, thus gives the participate a true alaskan experience.
This trip costs $200 per person and a minimum of two people or cash equivalent.
Addition add-on services.
Shuttle pick ups and drop off service to and from your destination start at $100. Shuttle service needs to be arranged with one of the motor tour company’s we have partnered with.
There can be wind blowing off the glacier or coming from the mountain so we recommend that you wear the following:
