The Glacial Lake Inflatable Kayak Tour allows adventurers to paddle through the stunning Kennicott Glacier Lake, surrounded by majestic icebergs and breathtaking vistas. This guided experience immerses kayakers in the serene beauty of the glacier while providing insights into its formation and the historic Kennecott Mines. With the chance to spot wildlife along the shore, this tour blends thrilling exploration with nature appreciation. Curious to learn more about this one-of-a-kind adventure?
Key Points
- The 4-hour kayaking tour departs from McCarthy and explores the icebergs in Kennicott Glacier Lake, offering stunning views of the Kennicott Valley.
- Participants are provided with all necessary gear, including drysuit, flotation device, helmet, paddle, and water shoes, for a comfortable and safe experience.
- The tour includes guided information on glacier formation and historic sites, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife, such as bears, along the shore.
- The tour is priced at $285.00 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience, and has a 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews.
- Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point at McCarthy River Tours, and are recommended to bring warm base layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and snacks.
Tour Overview
The 4-hour kayaking tour departs from McCarthy and takes participants around icebergs in the Kennicott Glacier Lake.
Guests will experience the serenity and stunning views of the Kennicott Valley. They’ll listen for the sounds of glaciers creaking and calving into the water.
A guide will provide information on glacier formation, the Kennecott Mines, Stairway Icefall, and Mount Blackburn.
Wildlife spotting opportunities along the shore include bears.
The tour is designed to immerse participants in the natural beauty and unique features of this glacial landscape.
Looking for more options in McCarthy? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Inclusions
Drysuit, flotation device, helmet, paddle, and water shoes are provided for the kayaking tour.
Private transportation, all fees, and taxes are included.
Participants should bring warm base layers, warm socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and snacks.
Warm base layers, warm socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and snacks are recommended for participants.
A camera is recommended to capture the stunning views.
An optional tip for the guide, 10-20% of the trip cost, is suggested.
Meeting and Pickup
Participants can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup.
The meeting point is located at McCarthy River Tours, Mile 59 McCarthy Rd, McCarthy, AK 99588, USA. Guests should arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour’s departure time.
Free onsite parking is available for those driving themselves. The operator recommends allowing enough time to get to the meeting point, as the tour departs promptly.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting location.
Glacial Lake Exploration
After meeting at the designated location, participants embark on a 4-hour kayaking tour around the icebergs in Kennicott Glacier Lake.
They’ll experience the serene beauty of the Kennicott Valley, listening for the haunting sounds of glaciers creaking and calving.
The knowledgeable guide provides insights on glacier formation, the historic Kennecott Mines, the Stairway Icefall, and the majestic Mount Blackburn.
Along the shore, they may spot wildlife like bears.
Equipped with the necessary gear, including drysuits and flotation devices, the group glides across the pristine waters, immersed in the awe-inspiring glacial landscape.
Kennicott Glacier Formation
The Kennicott Glacier, a stunning natural wonder nestled in the heart of Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, owes its existence to a remarkable geological process.
Formed over centuries by the relentless movement of ice and snow, the glacier has carved a breathtaking landscape. As the ice flows, it grinds and scrapes the underlying rock, creating the distinctive U-shaped valley that’s visible today.
The glacier’s calving, where large chunks of ice break off, contributes to the dramatic scenery and the serene lake that kayakers can explore.
This dynamic and ever-changing glacier is a testament to the power of nature.
Kennecott Mines and Stairway Icefall
As visitors kayak across the serene Kennicott Glacier Lake, they can’t help but be captivated by the dramatic remnants of the Kennecott Mines, a historic copper mining operation that once thrived in this remote Alaskan valley.
The guide will point out the Stairway Icefall, a stunning glacial feature formed by the retreat of the Kennicott Glacier. Towering above the lake, this icefall showcases the incredible power of glacial forces.
Kayakers can listen for the eerie creaks and groans as the glacier slowly shifts, a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing natural landscape.
Wildlife Spotting
While kayaking across the serene Kennicott Glacier Lake, wildlife enthusiasts can often spot a variety of animals along the shoreline.
The tour guides are knowledgeable about the local fauna and keep a keen eye out for any sightings, which may include:
-
Majestic bears foraging for food along the shore
-
Bald eagles soaring overhead, scanning the water for fish
-
Curious harbor seals popping their heads out of the icy waters
These wildlife encounters add an extra layer of excitement and wonder to the already breathtaking glacial kayaking experience.
Pricing and Reviews
How much does this glacial lake kayak tour cost? The tour is priced from $285.00 per person, varying based on group size.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. According to reviews, the tour has a 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, with no reviews below 5 stars. This suggests the tour provides an exceptional experience.
Though the price may seem high, the inclusions like private transportation, equipment, and guided information indicate the tour offers great value. The pricing and stellar reviews make this glacial lake kayak tour an attractive option.
The Sum Up
The Glacial Lake Inflatable Kayak Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Kennicott Glacier Lake. Participants can paddle amidst majestic icebergs, learn about glacier formation, and potentially spot wildlife like bears. With its combination of adventure and nature exploration, this guided tour promises an unforgettable experience in the McCarthy region.