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Alaska Paddling Vacation - Lakes, Rivers, Scenic Coastlines and Secluded Areas to Kayak and Canoe!

Alaska Paddling Vacation Ideas

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One of the best ways to enjoy the scenic coastline of Alaska and see marine wildlife up close - is to paddle around on a canoe or kayak! You'll also find exciting paddling adventures that the whole family can enjoy along the many rivers and lakes within Alaska's unforgettable National Parks.


On our page here - we'll only look at Alaska adventure locations that can easily be enjoyed by all ages. Click here to find out about the best areas for Alaska whitewater rafting!

The Best Alaska Paddling Vacation Spots

Some of the best places to paddle in Alaska are along the Kenai and Nenana Rivers. In Denali State Park you can find guided paddling tours on a variety of lakes, as well as places to paddle on your own.

In Denali State Park try:

Byers Lake - Located right in the middle of the Park, the lake is a great paddle destination for both novice and experienced kayakers. You not only get great views of the local wilderness and wildlife, but you'll also see Mount McKinley in all its glory!

The cost for a guided tour on the lake is $79 per person and lasts just over 2 hours. You can also go on your own where you can rent kayaks by the hour or day, and it includes all the safety equipment as well!

Denali River Guides can assist you in planning your Alaska paddling vacation.


Along the coast - Seward is a fantastic place to plan an Alaska paddling vacation because you can choose from a number of different tours to suite your needs.

In Seward, look for these kayaking and paddling trips:

Kenai Fjords National Park - Guides will first instruct you on how to paddle, and then they take you on a tour through glaciers and protected coves. You'll see whales, sea lions, eagles and at the same time, enjoy the matchless beauty of Alaska's coastline.

Fox Island Kayaking - You can be as young as 8 years old to go kayaking here. There's lots of wildlife to see, and the waters are calm. You can book a full day guided tour where you can learn how to paddle around by knowledgeable instructors.

Resurrection Bay - Located extremely close to Seward, this tour allows you to paddle up the Caines Head shoreline. These tours provide instruction in the water, and you can team up using two-person kayaks.


Alaska Paddling Vacation - How to Get There

We realize that visitors to Alaska don't just arrive at the airport in Anchorage. If you're an Alaska Adventure Cruise passenger, the first time you set foot in the State will probably be in Sitka, Seward or Whittier.

So if you'd like to know how far it is to some of the places that we've mentioned - look at our mileage list below:

Distance from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park:

30 Miles / 1 Hour with Tour Operator

Distance from Anchorage to Seward (Kenai Fjords National Park):

120 Miles / 3.5 Hours Driving Time

Distance from Anchorage to Denali State Park:

240 Miles / 5.0 Hours Driving Time

Distance from Anchorage to Byers Lake:

160 Miles / 3.5 Hours Driving Time



What to Wear on an Alaska Kayak Trip

Usually a guided tour will always provide the kayak and the paddle gear.

To make the most out of your day on the water - we suggest you take the following:

  • Clothing that can be layered
  • Hiking boots or comfortable shoes
  • A cap, hat, or toque
  • Gloves
  • Rain gear
  • Sunglasses
Of course, you don't want to forget your camera, or you might even think about bringing along some binoculars.

You never know what the Alaska weather is going to be like - so it's always advisable to bring layers of clothing with you. Some guided kayaking and paddle tours can last up to 5 or 6 hours, and the weather conditions can change very quickly.

Since we've only scratched the surface about where to go kayaking in Alaska, keep checking back. We'll continue to update this page with the best Alaska paddling vacation spots including wilderness lakes and rivers!

More on Alaska Adventure Travel:

For Adventure on the Water - Plan to Kayak, Canoe, and Raft on an Alaska Paddling Vacation!

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