Basics
- Class:
- Class III+
- River Length
- 50 miles
- Time:
- 5-7 days
- Season:
- June to August
Description
Lake Creek is a remote river trip allowing visitors to get away from civilization and enjoy the beauty and bounty of the Denali National Park and Preserve area. Lake Creek is fed by the famous Kahiltna and Yentna Glaciers of Denali National Park and Preserve. Kahiltna and Yentna Glaciers flow off Mt. McKinley (20,320 feet), the highest peak in North America, and Mt. Foraker (17,395 feet). The cold silty waters feed Chelatna Lake, the headwaters and often the put-in for Lake Creek.
Lake Creek winds through forest and river canyon on its way southward towards its confluence with the Yentna River. Rapids are intermediate level on Lake Creek, featuring some technical whitewater with rock gardens and holes. Pool-drop rapids accent scenic water on Lake Creek, allowing visitors peaceful time to soak in the beauty of their surroundings.
Wildlife viewing is quite good on Lake Creek, with frequent sightings of Bear, Wolf, Eagle and Moose. In addition, the fishing on Lake Creek is world class with a variety of sport fish calling this home including King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Silver Salmon, Rainbow Trout and Arctic Grayling.
Lake Creek is generally run as a 5 day trip and is very remote. Lake Creek put-in is accessed via bush plane or float plane flight from Anchorage. The take-out, located at the confluence of Yentna River and Lake Creek, can be accessed via bush plane or roadway allowing for transport back to Anchorage via flight or vehicle.
