Paddle across the Delta River and hike into the heart of the Eastern Alaska Range on the Black Rapids Glacier Traverse. This challenging float-and-trek route showcases rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and a stunning active glacier front.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–4 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have strong endurance and be comfortable carrying packs over mixed, uneven terrain for multiple days.
Wildlife
History
Black Rapids Glacier was famously documented in the early 20th century as part of Alaska's rapid glacial studies; the region remains largely undeveloped wilderness.
Conservation
Caveman Arctic Adventures practices Leave No Trace principles and promotes low-impact camping to preserve the fragile glacial and alpine ecosystems.
Caveman Arctic Adventures
Paddle across the Delta River and hike into the heart of the Eastern Alaska Range on the Black Rapids Glacier Traverse. This challenging float-and-trek route showcases rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and a stunning active glacier front.
Caveman Arctic Adventures is a Delta Junction, Alaska–based guiding company specializing in glacier hikes, river floats, and multi-day wilderness treks in the Eastern Alaska Range. The company offers locally guided experiences focused on safe, small-group exploration of Castner Glacier, Black Rapids Glacier, and the Bear Creek saddle. Guides use route knowledge of Castner Creek, Delta River access points, and Black Rapids terrain to plan hikes, river paddles, and overnight camps that match guest ability and weather conditions. Equipment recommendations, trip logistics, and safety briefings are provided before each outing, and guides maintain established wilderness practices and leave-no-trace principles. Trips range from the 2.5-mile Castner Glacier Day Hike with alpine viewpoints and wildflowers, to the Black Rapids Glacier Traverse combining a Delta River float and rugged glacier approach, to the Bear Creek ascent offering day and overnight options to 2,500-foot saddles. Caveman Arctic Adventures operates from Delta Junction, providing direct access to trailheads and river put-ins across the Eastern Alaska Range corridor. The business emphasizes clear communication, on-route interpretation of local geology and ecology, and practical field skills for cold-weather mountain environments. Insurance, permitting, or third-party credentials are arranged as required for remote travel; guides focus on emergency preparedness and guest briefings. For visitors seeking glacier views, river paddles, and alpine solitude near Delta Junction, Caveman Arctic Adventures presents guided, small-group options that prioritize safety, local knowledge, and responsible wilderness travel.
Guides provide on-route interpretation of glacial geology, flora, and wildlife while supporting accessible trip planning, services, and logistics for visitors.
Location
Delta Junction, AK
Gateway to the Eastern Alaska Range
Glacier Tours
3 guided trips
Castner, Black Rapids, Bear Creek
River Access
Delta River float
Included in Black Rapids Traverse
Trip Options
Day & overnight
Flexible durations available
Reserve guided trips to Castner Glacier, Black Rapids Glacier, or Bear Creek — limited group sizes for safety and quality.
Prepare for Variable Terrain
Expect rocky moraine, river crossings, and uneven glacier valley paths; waterproof boots and trekking poles will improve traction and stability.
Packraft Proficiency Recommended
A solid paddle technique and comfort with swift river currents are crucial for safely crossing the Delta River segment of the trip.
Carry Bear Spray
Black bear encounters are possible; guides provide spray, but know how to use it and keep food securely stored at campsites.
Plan for Rapid Weather Changes
Alaska’s mountain weather can shift quickly—bring waterproof and insulating layers to stay dry and warm throughout the trip.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Provides ankle support and protection in wet, rocky terrain and river fording.
summer
Packraft with Paddle and PFD
Necessary for safe river crossing at the trip’s start across the Delta River.
summer
Layered Clothing System
Allows adjustment to quickly changing alpine weather and temperature fluctuations.
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Satellite Emergency Communicator
Critical for safety in this remote location where cell coverage is unreliable.
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