Six Mile Creek: Alaska’s Premier Whitewater Run

What Makes Six Mile Creek Stand Out

Six Mile Creek runs through a steep-walled gorge in the Kenai Mountains, deep in the heart of Chugach National Forest. It’s remote and raw—a backcountry river shaped by glacial runoff, with tight, technical drops that require full focus. This is the only commercially run Class V river in Alaska.

As NOVA puts it “What makes it so special is the combination of sustained, challenging whitewater and the visceral setting—fast turquoise water, narrow gorges, and towering canyon walls. It’s as wild as the creek itself.”

The Drive: Anchorage to the Launch Point

You don’t have to go far to get remote. The trip begins with a scenic drive south along the Seward Highway, one of Alaska’s most iconic stretches of road. You’ll follow Turnagain Arm, where Dall sheep often dot the cliffs and eagles cruise the thermals. Watch the tides shift across the mudflats. They come in fast here!

About an hour and twenty minutes in, just past the turnoff to Hope, you’ll reach Silvertip Station, a public rest area. It’s not much to look at: a gravel pullout with a couple of signs and the distant sound of whitewater. Here you’ll meet your guides to suit up before being transported to the put-in a few minutes down the road.

Before You Paddle: The Swim Test

Six Mile doesn’t mess around, and neither do the guides. Before you get in a boat, you’ll need to pass a mandatory swim test. That means jumping into the river, fully geared up, and swimming through a Class I stretch of water. It’s pretty gentle, but It’s designed to make sure you’re comfortable in the water—just in case.

Most people are nervous going in, but come out feeling more confident and ready. And once you're in the raft, you'll be glad you did it.

Choose Your Challenge

There are two trip options on Six Mile Creek, and both pack in plenty of action:

• Two Canyons (Class IV): For strong beginners and intermediate rafters. Fast, splashy, technical. Ages 12–65.
  
• Three Canyons (Class V): Adds the most intense stretch of river, including the infamous Jaws. For experienced paddlers or those ready for a serious step up. Ages 16–65.

The Rapids

Six Mile’s rapids aren’t just big—they’re personal. You’ll hear their names in the safety talk, and you’ll remember them long after the trip is over.

• Staircase: A fast succession of drops that lives up to the name.
• Suckhole: Exactly what it sounds like. Stay on the line, or it’ll pull you in.
• Jaws: A Class V rapid with teeth—tight, technical, and unforgiving.

Each canyon ups the intensity. There’s little time to relax between rapids, but that’s what makes the run so exciting and rewarding.

Go With the Pros: NOVA Alaska Guides

Six Mile Creek isn’t the kind of place you just show up and run. You want guides who know every rock, eddy, and channel. NOVA Alaska Guides has been on this river a long time, and their experience shows.

They provide all the gear (drysuit, PFD, river footwear, and helmet), and make sure you’re trained, briefed, and ready to paddle smart.

What to Bring & When to Go

Wear a warm synthetic base layer (no cotton). You may also want to bring a change of clothes. Even though NOVA supplies top of the line dry suits, a small amount of water may still get in.

Trips typically run from June through late August, depending on water levels. The water stays cold all season, so you may get chilled and exhilarated in equal measure.

Is It for You?

Six Mile Creek isn’t just for diehard thrill-seekers. NOVA says most guests are adventurous by nature (hikers, backpackers, and outdoorsy travelers), not necessarily adrenaline junkies, but people looking to push their limits in a safe, supported way. “With expert guides and strong safety protocols, it ends up being a perfect fit for people who want a big story to tell—and the confidence that comes with earning it.”

You don’t need whitewater experience, but you do need to follow directions and be ready for real wilderness adventure. If you want to feel what it’s like to run Class IV and V whitewater in the heart of Alaska, there’s no better place to do it.

According to NOVA, there’s always a buzz before the trip. A mix of excitement and nerves. But afterward, the reaction is almost universal. “That was the wildest thing I’ve ever done.”

Connect with NOVA Alaska guides to learn more.