Adventure Collective
Water Activities: Two Hour Upper Kenai Scenic Float with Kenai River Drifters Lodge - Anchorage

Water Activities: Two Hour Upper Kenai Scenic Float with Kenai River Drifters Lodge

Cooper Landingeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior experience required

Overview

Discover the wild beauty of Alaska on a gentle float down the Upper Kenai River. This scenic journey offers wildlife sightings and incredible mountain vistas, perfect for all ages.

Cooper Landing, Alaska

Two Hour Upper Kenai Scenic Float

All Ages • Private Rafts Available!

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Sit back and relax as you meander through the glaciated valley of the Kenai River headwaters!

Duration

Approx. 2 Hours. If you are planning on making a booking between May 1st - 15th, please call to book.

About

We start this 7-mile voyage at Drifters Lodge, just after the massive Kenai Lake empties into this historic icy blue river. From the start, it is sensory overload, as Cecil Rhodes mountain and Slaughter Ridge tower above you, Bald Eagles screech and the serene glacial water gains speed.

This trip includes floating past the old Cooper Landing Township, a couple minor, Class I and II “whooptidoo” rapids, and miles of majestic scenery before concluding where the famous Russian River empties into the Kenai. Your guide will point out wildlife along the way, and can teach you about the biology and geology of the area. Be sure to quiz them on any questions you think of! Keep your eyes peeled as you could spot anything from Bald Eagles at their huge nests to river otters, beavers, and even a special moose or bear sighting.

More Info

  • Must call to book for children under 5.
  • Please meet at Drifters Lodge 10-15 minutes before your scheduled trip time.
  • RV parking is not available at Drifters Lodge. If you have an RV, you may park just up the street at the boat launch on King Salmon Drive for a $5 fee and call us for pickup. Please notify us prior to the day of the trip
  • Physical Requirements: The trip involves climbing stairs to get to the river and sitting on the edge of an inflatable raft with no back rest. With advanced notice, we can make accommodations to start at the boat ramp ¼ mile up the road to avoid stairs, and we can arrange for up to 2 seats with a backrest on the raft.
  • Our scenic floats are a shared experience with up to 8 people on a raft. Any age can float. Private rafts are an option if you prefer.
  • At the trip time, your guide will meet you and outfit everyone in Rain Jacket, Rain Pants, Rubber Boots and Life Jackets. You may bring your own if you want.
  • Please wear very warm layers.
  • Fishing from rafts is not allowed
  • Guide gratuities aren’t included in the price
  • We float rain or shine!

Adventure Tips

Wear layered clothing

Temperatures can vary; dress in layers to stay comfortable during the float.

Bring your camera

Capture scenic moments and wildlife sightings along the river.

Apply sun protection

Use sunscreen and wear a hat to stay protected from sun exposure.

Bring binoculars

Enhance your chances of spotting eagles, bears, and other wildlife.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Black bears

History

The Kenai River has been a vital salmon spawning river for thousands of years, shaping local indigenous culture and history.

Conservation

Kenai River Drifters Lodge actively participates in river cleanup projects and supports local fish hatcheries to preserve the region’s delicate ecosystems.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Hat and sunglasses

Essential

Protect yourself from sun exposure during the float.

summer specific

Waterproof camera or phone case

Keep your camera safe from splashes while capturing the scenic views.

spring;summer;fall specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Adjust layers for comfort as weather changes on the river.

spring;summer;fall specific

Insect repellent

Protect against potential mosquito bites near the water.

summer specific