Is paddling experience necessary?

No prior paddling experience is required; guides will provide instruction and support throughout the trip.

What should I bring for a multi-hour trip?

Bring water, snacks, layered clothing, sun protection, and any personal items you'll need for comfort and safety.

Are children allowed on this trip?

Yes, children aged 10 and up can participate with an adult, provided they are comfortable with outdoor activities.

What if the weather turns bad?

Trips are weather-dependent; guides will assess conditions and reschedule if necessary for safety.

Do I need to know how to paddle?

No, guides will give you instruction and assistance to ensure an enjoyable experience regardless of skill level.

Are permits or reservations required?

Yes, booking in advance through St. Elias Alpine Guides is recommended to secure your spot.

Kennicott Glacier Lake Paddle | Hiking in McCarthy, Alaska

Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure with the Kennicott Glacier Lake Paddle, a unique blend of hiking and paddling in the rugged wilderness of Alaska. Starting in the historic town of McCarthy, this experience takes you across glacial waters with views of towering ice formations and snow-capped peaks. The trip offers a peaceful escape into nature, where you'll paddle across crystal-clear lakes surrounded by pristine forests and panoramic mountain scenery. As you explore, you'll have the chance to observe local wildlife, including moose and eagles, while learning about the area's rich history from your expert guides. This adventure is perfect for those seeking a mix of activity and awe-inspiring landscape, whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or new to outdoor pursuits. The guided experience ensures safety and enriches your understanding of the area's geology, ecology, and history. After a day of paddling and hiking, relax amidst the remote wilderness and enjoy a sense of accomplishment in this truly special Alaskan environment. Whether you're seeking serenity, adventure, or a chance to connect with nature, the Kennicott Glacier Lake Paddle provides an awe-evoking experience that will stay with you long after you return home.

About St. Elias Alpine Guides

St. Elias Alpine Guides is a guiding company based in McCarthy, Alaska, offering guided adventures throughout Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and surrounding wilderness. The company leads a range of trips including packrafting, multi-day rafting, glacier hiking, ice climbing, fly-in hiking, and private basecamp expeditions. Popular itineraries include Doubtful–Nizina Packrafting, Tebay Lakes Basecamp Packrafting, Chitina River trips, Western Copper River rafting, Raft and Flightsee, Full-Day Glacier Hike on Root Glacier, Skolai Pass fly-in hiking, Bremner Mine basecamp hiking, and multi-day Ice Climbing and Ice Climbing Camp programs.

Trips are available as scheduled group departures or fully private, customizable experiences with options for day trips and multi-day expeditions. Many itineraries accommodate families and groups; for example, Chitina River trips welcome guests ages eight and up and Western Copper River trips can include children as young as three. Several trips conclude with scenic bush plane flights or operate from remote fly-in access points.

St. Elias Alpine Guides emphasizes small-group guiding, route planning, and trip customization to match client skill levels and objectives. Guides provide logistics, gear guidance, and route choices appropriate to each itinerary. Booking information lists fixed departures for some trips and private-date options for others, with clear descriptions of duration and difficulty. The company’s offerings focus on authentic wilderness experiences in McCarthy, Root Glacier, Tebay Lakes, the Copper River corridor, and surrounding Alaskan river systems.

Clients can select multi-day basecamps, day hikes, guided ice-climbing instruction, or combined raft-and-flightsee itineraries to tailor pace, challenges, and family needs. Booking details and gear lists.