Rivers Near Anchorage
Nova Matanuska River Rafting.
Eagle River
About 10 miles (16km) north of downtown. A relaxing canoe or raft trip through quiet primeval forests or find wildly fun rapids. Experienced whitewater boaters can find technical Class IV waters in the upper section.
Sixmile River
Just 60 miles (96 km) from Anchorage, Sixmile Creek winds through three separate canyons, the third offering exciting Class IV and V whitewater.
Portage River
About 50 miles (80 km) south of Anchorage, this water was once part of Portage glacier. Starting at the Begich Boggs Visitor Center, the shallow river meanders between steep mountainsides painted with cascading waterfalls on its journey toward Cook Inlet – a popular canoeing river.
Kenai River
A little farther south of Portage is the world famous Kenai River. Keeping in step with most Alaskan rafting trips, the Kenai passes through spectacular country the entire route. Enjoy the scenery or choose a fishing float for world-class salmon and trout fishing. Canoeists often enjoy various sections of this turquoise river, too.
Matanuska River
A popular rafting area, located within an hour of Anchorage. Choose the lower portion of the river for a scenic, relaxing float or the upper portion for a wild, wet adventure.
Talkeetna River
Located approximately 135 miles (216 km) from downtown Anchorage, this fish-filled river is also easily accessible via fly-in floatplane.
Chickaloon River
About 80 miles (128 km) northeast of Anchorage. From Chickaloon Station, board a helicopter for a shuttle flight up the river with views unsurpassed and spend the night at the base of majestic Castle Mountain. For many, a Chickaloon adventure proves to be the highlight of their Anchorage holiday. The trip takes two days; tours are available from mid-June through early September.
