Alaska Packrafting
Susitna River, Alaska (trip based out of Anchorage, AK)
JUL 8 - JUL 15, 2027
Overview
Float a glacial Alaskan river that only a flag stop train can reach. You'll ride the Hurricane Train for an hour to the put in, and Eagles will flag the conductor together when it's time to hop off and get on the water. Over four nights you'll paddle an estimated 100 miles of the Susitna River, sleep on islands, and take in views of Alaskan wilderness and even Denali. Come ready to build unforgettable memories and unshakable friendships with fellow Eagles.
Application window: Dec 8 - June 20, 2027
Fundraising Commitment: $500 with $50 non-refundable commitment ($50 non-refundable deposit)
Notified: Applicants will be notified of their status starting Dec 15. Applicants who apply after Dec 15 will be notified on a rolling basis.
Expedition Highlights
Packrafting
Float on a glacial river with island camping
Mountain Views
Beautiful mountain views of Denali
4 Nights in Backcountry
You'll paddle an estimated 100 miles of the Susitna River
Other Highlights include:
Location: Susitna River, Alaska (trip based out of Anchorage, AK)
Estimated route of 100 miles, averaging 20 miles per day
The Susitna River begins at Suyitnu, a name from the Dena'ina Alaska Native people meaning “sandy river.”
The waters support all five species of Pacific salmon (Chinook, Sockeye, Coho, Chum, and Pink), plus Arctic lamprey and Dolly Varden
The basin is critical habitat for moose, black and grizzly bears, wolves, lynx, and the Nelchina caribou herd
Float on a glacial Alaskan river, camp on islands, munch wild berries, see wildlife, and build unforgettable memories and unshakable friendships
Itinerary
JULY 08:
Arrive in Anchorage after a long day of travel. Overnight in Anchorage.
JULY 09:
Talkeetna. Gear shakedown and packraft basics. Overnight in a Talkeetna cabin.
JULY 10:
On the river. Ride the Hurricane Train for an hour to the put in, flag the conductor together when it is time to hop off, then float the Susitna River and camp on islands for 4 nights.
July 14:
Return to Anchorage. Overnight in an Anchorage hotel.
July 15:
Trip concludes.
Itinerary (subject to change)
Prerequisites & Requirements
Backcountry experience is required. Paddling experience is recommended.
This is a true Alaskan wilderness experience on a remote, glacial river. Packraft basics are covered during the gear shakedown in Talkeetna.
Equipment & Logistics
Transportation: The Hurricane Train, a flag stop train, carries the group on an hour-long ride to the put in. This stretch of the Susitna River is accessible only by flag stop train.
Camping: Four nights on islands along the river.
Lodging: Overnights in Anchorage (July 8 and July 14) and a Talkeetna cabin (July 9).Gear shakedown: Packraft basics and a gear check in Talkeetna before launch.
Meals: All meals are included from the Talkeetna cabin through the river portion, plus a celebratory dinner.
Included gear: Packrafts, paddles, dry suits, PFDs, and booties.
Bring: Your own backpacking gear, plus a 60L dry bag or an adequate pack waterproofing system.
Transfers: Transport from Anchorage to Talkeetna, to the put in, and back to the frontcountry is included.
