Eagle River

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Eagle River is a very popular river to raft because of its close proximity to Anchorage. The town of Eagle River is 13 miles Northeast of Anchorage. There are several different access points depending on which part of the river you wish to do.

Middle Eagle River - Class I The farthest access point by vehicle is mile 8.5 of Eagle River Road. There is a state maintained parking area at the put in. This section of the river is only class I; however, one must be carefull not to get caught up in the many sweepers found along the shore. This is a very scenic float trip with many places to pull off and have lunch. It takes about 3-4 hours to float. The take out is on the North side of Briggs Bridge on Eagle River Loop Road. This is also a state maintained parking lot that requires a parking fee ($5). The take out is marked on the river with signs warning of rapids farther downstream.

Lower Eagle River - Class II/III The put in for this section is the take out for the middle section (see above). Almost immediately after passing under Briggs Bridge the class II rapids begin. The greatest danger in this section of the river are the sweepers along the shore. They recently proved fatal to an expert kayaker. The class II rapids continue for about 1.5 miles until the beginning of Campground rapid (Class III). There are warning signs indicating your approach. It is a good idea to stop and scout the rapid. Although it is only a class III rapid, it's more dangerous than you would think of a class III rapid. Campground rapid consists of a river wide ledge with several boulders in the middle of the river. Along with a hard right turn to stay in the main flow, this rapid is quite challenging and fun. This rapid is the scene of many rescues. Mostly from those who can't stay in the main flow and find themselves stuck on a rock. This is where the Anchorage Fire Department conducts its river rescue training. The take out is about 1/4 mile below Campground rapid on the left and before passing under the double bridges of the Glenn Highway. It is a state campground facility (another fee area, $5) located on the frontage road by the Hiland Rd overpass, next to the Hiland Mountain Correctional facility. This section takes about 25 minutes to run. If you have a permit from the Army, it is possible to float farther down Eagle River. This section is class II that will add another 45 min. to an hour to your trip.

During the summer, the Knik Canoers and Kayakers usually have fun runs between the bridges on Wednesday nights. This is a great chance to watch, learn, and run the Eagle River whitewater!

Eagle River Water Levels:
2.7 Low (III), 3.5 Medium (III), 4.3 High (III+)