Rafting the Wilds of Alaska
May 30, 2008
We have all dreamed about grabbing that raft or kayak and heading straight in to the wilds of Alaska and ‘Bear Country.’ Alright, maybe not all of us. There has been a time or two when the thought has crossed my own mind. Many of us still look to Alaska as being one of the most wild and untouched places in the world. Moose, Bear, an occasional Penguin. Ok, Penguins aren’t from Alaska, but they always add a bit of ‘cuteness’ to a story. Can’t blame a guy for trying…
Jeff Varvil, who writes a monthly column for Water and Woods Magazine, shows us how easy it is to just get out there and try our hands at rafting the wild rivers of Alaska. He takes us from where to go, to price and equipment involved. Most of this costs as little as $60 a day for raft rental, but what is sixty bucks when your in the wilds of Alaska?
Jeff highlights a few of the more popular short rafting routes. Those suitable for a nice day trip, but he also warns that the rivers of Alaska are as diverse as you could want. They go from lazy crawls to wild class IV and V rapids. For the latter, you would definitely need some experience and training, along with some kind of knowledge of survival skills. It wouldn’t hurt to know how to swim either.
This is definitely a cool read and offers up some great information if you have ever thought about heading into the wilds of Alaska. I have personally never been, but a friend of mine recently mentioned that his family owns a Bed & Breakfast up that way. May have to try to pull some strings in the near future–
If you do decide to head to Alaska for a jaunt on the rivers, be sure to keep your eyes peeled. You never know when that rare penguin might make an appearance..
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My Dad has been to Alaska twice and leaves again soon for another summer there. He loves the fishing and the scenery and he always comes back with great pictures. I don’t think he’s tried rafting though, and I’d appreciate it if no one suggested it. He’s enough of a daredevil as it is.