Glacial Lake Inflatable Kayak Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of paddling around floating icebergs with the backdrop of towering glaciers and rugged mountains, then this Glacial Lake Inflatable Kayak Tour in McCarthy, Alaska, might just be your perfect adventure. This guided trip offers a manageable four hours on the water, expertly balancing breathtaking scenery with safety and comfort. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a first-timer, the tour’s focus on accessibility and education makes it appealing to a wide range of travelers.

One of the standout features of this experience is the chance to paddle among icebergs that have calved from the nearby Kennicott Glacier. The views of glaciers creaking and tumbling into the water create an otherworldly atmosphere that’s hard to match. We also love the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life with stories about glacier formation, Kennecott Mines, and Mount Blackburn. Just be aware, the price of $285 per person isn’t cheap, but it’s reflective of the exclusive, small-group nature of the trip and the included gear. This tour suits those seeking a unique, scenic adventure with a focus on wildlife, geology, and Alaska’s stunning natural beauty.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience provides valuable insights about glaciers and local history.
• Stunning scenery of icebergs, glaciers, and rugged mountains makes for memorable photos.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety.
• All necessary gear including drysuits, helmets, and water shoes is provided.
• Wildlife spotting opportunities include bears and other animals along the shoreline.
• Flexible scheduling options with morning or afternoon departures.

What to Expect from the Tour

This four-hour adventure begins with convenient pickup from McCarthy, ensuring you don’t need to worry about transport logistics. Once at the meeting point, the guides, such as Johnny or Caitlin, will suit you up in drysuits, helmets, and water shoes—gear designed to keep you warm and safe in the cold waters of Kennicott Glacier Lake. The small group size, limited to six participants per booking, helps create a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

The core of the trip is paddling around icebergs—some gently bobbing near the shore, others more dramatic as they drift across the lake. The guides are well-versed in glacier geology and will share fascinating stories about how glaciers form and move, making the experience both scenic and educational. Listening to glaciers creak and calve into the water adds a thrilling sense of being in a living, breathing landscape. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Amanda and Caitlin enhanced their trip, making it not just a paddle but a learning experience.

The Journey and the Scenery

Your tour begins with a brief safety and gear orientation. Most travelers comment on how helpful guides are in explaining what to expect, including how to handle the inflatable kayak and keep warm. The inflatable kayaks themselves are stable and comfortable, perfect for navigating the calm waters of the lake, where the focus is on gentle paddling rather than technical skill.

Once on the water, the view of icebergs is breathtaking. Some ice chunks are tiny, others massive, and all seem to shimmer with a blue hue that only ice from glaciers can produce. Reviewers often mention how close the guide gets to the icebergs, allowing for great photo opportunities. You’ll also be on the lookout for wildlife along the shore—bears, birds, and maybe even a moose or two—though sightings depend on the season and luck.

The lake itself is a new geographical feature, formed by glacial retreat, which makes the landscape especially dynamic and fascinating. As your guide explains, these lakes are some of the region’s newest and offer a rare close-up view of the glacier’s ongoing transformation.

Wildlife and Nature

While the main focus is on glaciers and icebergs, the shoreline may host wildlife sightings. Several reviewers appreciated how guides like Johnny and Amanda shared stories about local fauna, making the landscape come alive. Sometimes, you might spot bears or other animals along the shore, adding an element of excitement to this serene experience.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

For $285, you get all gear needed—a drysuit, helmet, flotation device, paddle, and water shoes—plus private transportation back to McCarthy. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key. Reviewers stress wearing warm socks and suitable layers, especially since the water and weather can be chilly. While the gear provides good insulation, bringing warm base layers and sunscreen is advisable.

The tour’s flexibility is a plus—participants can choose from a morning or afternoon departure, fitting well into varied schedules. It’s also a private activity, meaning your small group won’t be crowded by strangers, which some find more comfortable.

Duration and Pace

The four-hour duration includes safety briefings, gear-up time, paddling, and some time to relax and take photos. The pace is leisurely—not a workout—making it suitable for kids aged 8 and up, provided they are comfortable in water and outdoor environments. Reviewers note that the guides are attentive to safety and comfort, making this a hassle-free adventure.

The Value of This Experience

While $285 per person might seem steep, the tour offers exceptional value considering the inclusiveness of gear, transportation, and the intimate group size. Many reviewers have expressed how the knowledgeable guides enhanced their understanding of the landscape, making it more than just a kayak outing but an educational journey.

The stunning scenery—icebergs, glaciers, and mountain vistas—delivers on its promise of awe-inspiring views. Paddling among floating ice chunks provides a rare chance to experience the raw power of nature up close. Plus, wildlife sightings add an extra layer of excitement, especially if you’re lucky enough to see bears or other animals along the shoreline.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a unique outdoor experience in remote Alaska. It’s suitable for families with children over age 8, provided they meet safety requirements. The tour is excellent for travelers wanting to learn about glaciers while enjoying a fun, active outing. Because the tour is private and small, it appeals to those seeking a more personal, less rushed experience.

If you’re comfortable with water and outdoor conditions, you’ll appreciate the informative guides and the opportunity to paddle in a pristine glacial environment. However, those expecting a more vigorous, adrenaline-fueled activity might find this more sedate but equally rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Glacial Lake Inflatable Kayak Tour from McCarthy offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and wildlife encounters. With knowledgeable guides like Johnny and Caitlin at the helm, you’ll gain insights into glacier formation and the region’s geology, making your trip both educational and visually stunning. The inclusion of all gear and private transport simplifies logistics, leaving you free to focus on the experience.

While the price might be a consideration, the quality of the scenery and the personalized nature of this tour make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see Alaska’s glaciers from a fresh perspective. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group adventures, photography, and learning about the environment in an authentic setting.

If you love glaciers, icebergs, and quiet lakes, this kayaking trip could be one of the most memorable parts of your Alaska journey. It’s an opportunity to see a fragile and changing landscape with knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about sharing their passion for this incredible region.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately four hours, including gear-up, paddling, and transfer time.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 8 and older who are comfortable outdoors can participate.
• What should I wear? Dress in warm, outdoor-ready clothing, including warm socks. The drysuits provided help keep you dry and warm.
• Is the gear provided? Yes, the tour includes drysuits, helmets, flotation devices, paddles, and water shoes.
• Can I choose a departure time? Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon departure.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. Guides will assess conditions to ensure safety.
• How many people are in each group? Groups are limited to six travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Are there any safety precautions? Guides are trained to ensure safety, and gear is provided to keep you safe and warm.
• What wildlife might I see? Expect to potentially see bears, birds, and other shoreline animals, depending on the season.
• How do I book? You can reserve your spot through the provided booking platform, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

In all, this kayak tour offers a memorable, intimate look at Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, guided by passionate experts ready to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.