Wilderness Kayak Experience

Spend hours peacefully kayaking around Chilkoot Lake, observing the unspoiled vistas and abundant wildlife. As you approach the lake, views of the pristine Alaskan landscape will be magnificent and include dark-green Sitka tree forests and craggy mountain peaks. The lake’s crystal-clear water is typically calm and ideal for kayaking as the surrounding wilderness shelters it from wind. During the orientation, you will discover how easy it is to maneuver in a kayak. Then, you will paddle off into the glacial waters. The native Tlingit people named the lake Chilkoot for a word that means “basket of bigger fish,” as the waters here are teeming with large sockeye salmon and trout. You may well spot seals frolicking in the lake and bald eagles soaring overhead. Larger animals such as moose and mountain goats are often seen ashore. Brown bears feeding on salmon in their spawning beds are another common sight.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Paddle a kayak through the typically glassy, glacial waters of Chilkoot Lake.
• Behold the glorious natural beauty in every direction.
• Look for wildlife such as bald eagles, seals, moose and brown bears.
• Drive through Fort William Seward, a National Historic Landmark.
• Enjoy a tasty snack along the shore of the lake.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate layered clothing, a sun cap and sunglasses.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.