You like to paddle? Well, look no further than Alaska’s Rainforest Islands for a bounty of canoeing and kayaking opportunities. There’s so many in fact, that all you need to do is point your finger anywhere on a map of the area. You can choose to travel along protected lakes and waterways, river deltas, or into long narrow fjords filled with icebergs.
Kayaking and canoeing is an ideal way to see birds and other wildlife along the shoreline. Many of the popular water systems have Tongass National Forest public-use cabins conveniently situated close by, offering a full experience. Local outfitters throughout the islands offer half-day to multi-day kayak trips and experienced paddlers may consider renting boats and creating their own adventure. The Tongass National Forest has suggested routes in the Petersburg area for experienced paddlers and campers.
LeConte Glacier
Named for a colleague of John Muir, LeConte Glacier is North America’s southern most tidewater glacier located within the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness Area. A 12-mile icy fjord filled with spectacular scenery and abundant marine and bird viewing opportunities, introduces you to this majestic glacier. Spend a day kayaking – with a guide or on your own – listening to the eerie cracking and creaking sounds of LeConte Glacier while paddling among its icebergs. Guided tours or drop-offs can be arranged from Petersburg or Wrangell. Learn More
Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route
The Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route is located within Tongass National Forest on Prince of Wales Island and is a great midlevel canoe trip for all ages. The Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route offers boaters the opportunity to enter a relatively pristine area of lakes and islands with many bird and wildlife watching areas. Salmon streams enter the lake along the route and bears and deer are frequent visitors. This canoe trail includes Sarkar and Upper Sarkar Lakes, Finger, Raven and Long Lakes and passes through forest and muskeg. Canoe rentals are available in the bigger communities on Prince of Wales Island. Learn More