Welcome to the frontier of adventure.
Have you ever imagined paddling surrounded by glaciers and majestic wildlife?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Alaska, where the wild and pristine waters beckon.
Join us as we explore the Last Frontier’s unparalleled beauty. Are you ready to embark on the journey?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Alaska
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Resurrection Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Seward Waterfront Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, ocean swells, windy conditions
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Whales, sea lions, sea otters, bald eagles
- 🏞️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounding mountains, glaciers, and fjords
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, always be prepared for changing weather
Resurrection Bay, located in Seward, is one of the most popular places to paddle board in Alaska. Witness the breathtaking views of surrounding mountains, glaciers, and fjords as you paddle among the vibrant marine wildlife.
The bay is known for calm waters, but always be prepared for changing weather conditions.
#2 Mendenhall Lake
- ️🏖️ Location Type: Mountain Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Skater’s Cabin (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, chilly waters
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Beavers, bears, mountain goats
- 🏞️ Landmarks & Views: Mendenhall Glacier, surrounding mountains
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Keep a safe distance from glacier, respect wildlife
Mendenhall Lake, situated near Juneau, offers a spectacular paddleboarding experience in a glacial setting. With the backdrop of Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding mountains, this tranquil lake invites paddlers to enjoy Alaska’s pristine natural beauty.
Be mindful of chilly water temperatures and maintain a safe distance from the glacier.
#3 Shoup Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Shoup Bay Trailhead (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm bay waters, variable wind conditions
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, sea lions, seals, birds
- 🏞️ ️Landmarks & Views: Shoup Glacier, surrounding mountains
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for changing weather, respect wildlife
Shoup Bay, near Valdez, is a stunning destination for paddleboarding, offering unmatched views of Shoup Glacier and quiet serenity.
This bay is an ideal spot for spotting a variety of wildlife while you glide through the calm waters. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and always respect the wildlife in the area.
#4 Eklutna Lake
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Eklutna Lake Campground (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, chilly waters, occasional winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Moose, black bears, bald eagles
- 🏞️ Landmarks & Views: Chugach Mountains, surrounding forests
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, respect local rules
Nestled in the Chugach Mountains near Anchorage, Eklutna Lake is a serene spot for paddle boarding.
This scenic mountain lake is surrounded by forests and offers the opportunity to spot the iconic Alaskan wildlife. Keep an eye out for moose and bears while enjoying the calm waters and spectacular views.
#5 Kenai River
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Centennial Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, mild winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, eagles, moose, bears
- 🏞️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounding forests, meandering riverbanks
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of potential wildlife encounters, respect fishing regulations
Kenai River is a popular destination for paddleboarders in Alaska, offering a peaceful journey through the surrounding forests and abundant wildlife.
Glide through the gentle currents while keeping an eye out for moose, bears, and bald eagles. Remember to respect local fishing regulations as salmon runs are an essential part of the region.
#6 Knik Arm
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Goose Bay (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Tidal currents and ocean swells, variable winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Beluga whales, seals, birds
- 🏞️ ️Landmarks & Views: Views of Mount Susitna, surrounding coastlines
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of tidal currents, watch for boat traffic
Knik Arm, located near Anchorage, offers a unique oceanfront paddleboarding experience. Paddle along the coastline, taking in the views of Mount Susitna and the chance to spot beluga whales and other marine life.
Be prepared for tidal currents and keep an eye out for boat traffic in the area.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Alaska?
You can paddle board in Alaska at Kenai River, Kachemak Bay, Mendenhall Lake, and the Inside Passage.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Alaska?
No, paddle boards do not need to be registered in Alaska.
When is the best time to paddle board in Alaska?
The ideal time to paddle board in Alaska is during the summer months when temperatures are warmer.
