Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
Overview
For 50 years, NOVA has been running Lions Head trips, offering nonstop thrills on this powerhouse glacial river. Featuring crashing waves and Class III & IV boulder gardens, the adventure creates a consistent rush of excitement! With a variety of rapids to conquer, this unforgettable experience is perfect for everyone—from first-timers to seasoned adventurers seeking an action-packed ride. You’ll be outfitted with top-of-the-line gear and guided by expert instructors to ensure a safe, exciting experience.
The Lions Head section of the Matanuska River is not only NOVA's original river trip, it’s where our journey as a company began in 1975. Over the decades, we’ve perfected this iconic trip, which remains our most popular whitewater rafting adventure. With stunning mountain views, rugged landscapes, and several miles of thrilling Class III & IV rapids, this half-day trip is a local treasure in the Mat-Su Valley, offering an exhilarating taste of Alaska’s wilderness.
What's Included
- River dry suit, river boots, life jacket, and helmet
- Professional river guide
- Transportation from Anchorage
- Photos for sale
- Gratuity for Guide
Meeting Location
38100 Glenn Highway
Glacier View, AK 99674, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Experience the thrill of Alaska’s whitewater! Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride on this premier Class III & IV river, racing through crashing waves between two dramatic mountain ranges—the jagged Chugach and the ancient Talkeetnas.
This scenic alpine region is surrounded by rising peaks, offering breathtaking vistas in every direction, with the massive Matanuska Glacier visible on the shuttle to your put in. The adventure begins on Caribou Creek, a low-volume tributary that serves as the perfect training ground before you tackle the bigger rapids downstream.
As the creek merges with the glacial currents of the South Fork, the river transforms into powerful Class III & IV rapids. Traveling alongside the Matanuska Glacier’s moraine, the South Fork takes you past the iconic ‘Lion’s Head’—a massive volcanic plug that rises from the valley floor. Shaped like a lion’s head, it stands proudly amidst the rugged landscape before the river surges into more thrilling whitewater.
Located just two hours north of Anchorage, this is the perfect half-day adventure!
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for travelers under 12 yrs, over 67 yrs
- Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
- Must understand English
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(7)Q: Will I get seasick on Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-453454P5
Traveler Photos



Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Alaska and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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