Raft Class II–III rapids, then fly back to McCarthy by bush plane
7 hours
Guide, lunch, bush plane flight
Raft the Kennicott and Nizina Rivers with your guide on the oars, then take a 15-minute scenic bush plane flight back to McCarthy. Spend the day floating past glacial valleys and into the twisting walls of Nizina Canyon.
Ages 8+ and minimal experience required. Gratuity is not included; a typical tip range is 10–20% of your trip total.
Fully refundable up to 48 hours prior to the start of the trip. Within 48 hours, no refund for cancellations. No-shows will be charged the full price. Full refund if the operator cancels due to dangerous conditions.
Bring layered clothing (no cotton), rain gear (jacket and pants), warm sweater and/or jacket, warm wool or synthetic socks, warm hat and sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a camera or phone.
Bring rain/rubber boots if you have them. If you don’t, rubber boots are provided for your time on the river, and the shoes you arrive in can be stored in a waterproof bag if they are not waterproof.
You’ll raft a cold, fast glacial river with up to Class III rapids. There is a chance you could swim, and you must be physically and mentally able to actively participate in getting back into the boat if that happens.
The guides here clearly make all the difference. Reviewers consistently praise staff by name—Benjamin, Caroline, Stella, Pat, Roy, and many others—for their knowledge, professionalism, and genuine care. Whether it's someone helping a 75-year-old hiker manage the heat, bringing hot coffee to guests on a chilly glacier, or extending a tour when timing didn't match expectations, the personal attention stands out. The operation offers everything from Kennecott Mill tours to multi-day wilderness adventures, glacier hikes, ice cave explorations, and rafting trips. The experiences range from accessible half-day outings to seriously challenging multi-day treks that reviewers describe as "not for the faint of heart." Guests appreciate that guides adapt to their group's needs and abilities while keeping safety front and center. The mill tours get special mention for being both informative and entertaining, with access to restricted areas you can't see on your own. People leave with what one reviewer perfectly called "core memories"—the kind of Alaskan adventure that feels both thrilling and remarkably well-supported.
We took a private ice cave tour with St. Elias Alpine Guides, the guide was professional. The ice cave was gorgeous. Please choose them if you want to get some adventure there!
Roy Ma
October 18, 2025
We took a private ice cave tour with St. Elias Alpine Guides, the guide was professional. The ice cave was gorgeous. Please choose them if you want to get some adventure there!
Roy Ma
October 18, 2025