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Private Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 reviews collected by Cool Alaska and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Alaska, USA

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English

Overview

This powerhouse glacial river is packed with thrills, crashing waves, and nonstop excitement. Experience the rare midnight sun twilight and tackle larger rapids on the Private Lions Head run—an unforgettable whitewater adventure like no other!

The Matanuska River is where NOVA’s journey began in 1975, and with 50 years of experience on these waters, we know how to bring you the best of this stunning river. Located just two hours north of Anchorage, this iconic half-day trip offers unparalleled mountain views and miles of consistent Class III & IV rapids.

Outfitted with top-of-the-line gear and guided by our expert team, you’ll experience the rush of Alaska’s wild rivers in a safe and exhilarating setting. Surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery, this adventure is a true Alaskan treasure.

What's Included

  • River Dry Suit, River Boots, Life Jacket, and Helmet
  • Shuttle transportation to and from activity.
  • Professional River Guide
  • Gratuity for Guide
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

38100 Glenn Highway
Glacier View, AK 99674, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

NOVA’s Private Lions Head run offers a truly unforgettable experience, where you can feel the power of a glacial-fed river under the rare twilight midnight sun of Alaska. As water levels peak during this evening adventure, you'll encounter a side of the Lions Head section that’s unlike the morning or afternoon runs—larger waves, deeper holes, and an unmatched thrill as you navigate through this stretch of consistent rapids. This trip is our most popular among local Alaskans who are craving MORE!

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride through one of Alaska’s premier Class III & IV rivers, racing between two dramatic mountain ranges—the jagged Chugach and the ancient Talkeetnas. Surrounded by breathtaking vistas, snow-capped peaks, and the massive Matanuska Glacier, this is a scenic adventure like no other.

The excitement kicks off on Caribou Creek, a low-volume tributary that prepares you for the bigger rapids downstream. As Caribou merges with the glacial waters of the South Fork, you’ll take on powerful Class III & IV rapids, surrounded by some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in Alaska. Located just 2 hours north of Anchorage.

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 under 12 yrs, over 67 yrs
  • Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
  • Must understand English

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: Will I get seasick on Private Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-453454P6

Reviews

5.00
1 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Alaska and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • River Dry Suit, River Boots, Life Jacket, and Helmet
  • Shuttle transportation to and from activity.
  • Professional River Guide
  • Gratuity for Guide

Additional Info

Activity name

  • 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

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AKDT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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