NOVA Alaska Guides Lions Head Whitewater Rafting

If you’re new to whitewater, new to Alaska, or both, Lion’s Head is a great introduction to it all. You’ll find fun, splashy rapids that are perfect for beginners, as well as the iconic big, open vistas unique to Alaskan rivers. NOVA Alaska Guides provides all necessary gear, including state-of-the-art dry-suits to wear over your clothing, to keep you dry and warm even if you decide to swim.

Lion’s Head has a 2-mile segment of class III and IV whitewater and 8 miles of intermittent class II and III rapids with easy floating along scenic vistas that takes 2.5 hours to run. Depending on the water level, you can opt to either paddle as a group working with your guide or hold on while the guide rows you downstream.

Take in the scenery for the first two miles, paddle like crazy during two miles of non-stop whitewater, then kick back again and look for Dall Sheep. These white, rock-loving creatures raise their young along the massive rock formation called Lion’s Head. And if they’re around, also keep an eye out for grizzly or black bears.

During the summer solstice, NOVA also offers a sunset float. Run the whitewater, then pull over for a campfire and snack before floating down to the take-out spot. On this unique float, you can enjoy the alpine glow and soft light of the midnight sun.

About NOVA Alaska Guides

Whether you want whitewater or a mellow float trip, the expert guides of NOVA Alaska Guides can take you on a memorable journey. NOVA has been professionally guiding trips for more than 30 years. Whether you and your family are looking for a scenic float, or you want to take the kids on their first whitewater run, NOVA makes it easy to participate.

Owner Chuck Spaulding loves this area so much that he based his company here. From the earliest first descents of challenging whitewater runs to perfecting riverside photos and campfires, he’s constantly refining his trips. And NOVA has the highest standards of safety, from river-rescue training for the guides to boat and gear options suited for changing river levels. So you can kick back and enjoy the scenic float, or dig in for the whitewater.