Sailing Lake Clark

Impossibly turquoise waters, tumbling waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, wildlife roaming the shores: Lake Clark National Park is a gorgeous microcosm of Alaska. And one of the most thrilling—and newest!—ways to experience this remote area is on a multi-day excursion aboard the catamaran run by Sailing Lake Clark. In an area filled with hunting and fishing lodges, taking to the water makes for a unique way to see this natural treasure.

Your trip begins aboard a self-arranged air taxi for the roughly 1-hour flight southwest from Anchorage; you’ll get an overview of the spectacular terrain as you fly through the stunning glaciers and mountains of Lake Clark Pass. Company founders Dennis and Alison(and sometimes their son, Landon) will meet you when you land in Port Alsworth. If time permits, they may take you on a hike along a well-groomed trail to majestic Tanalian Falls. In addition to the falls, this trail has a great view overlooking Port Alsworth and Lake Clark.

Odyssey

Then they’ll help you get out to Odyssey, a 50-foot-long sailing catamaran owned by Sailing Lake Clark, LLC. There you’ll meet the crew: two experienced sailors, chefs, and guides who will ensure that your adventure is one you never forget.

The exceptionally stable Odyssey features 3 heated and cozy guest cabins with queen-size beds and en suite bathrooms. You’ll also find comfortable seating areas both inside and out, offering plenty of space to relax and take in the surrounding views. Rent one cabin or buy out the boat; either way, there’s room for a maximum of 6 guests, so you’ll be assured an intimate journey. (Children under 13 are welcome for those renting the entire boat.)

7-day/6-night or 4-day/3-night Itineraries

You’ll spend either 4 or 7 days sailing around Lake Clark, experiencing all the natural majesty this national park has to offer, with its many craggy mountains set close to the water. Revel in an area so remote that after boarding you may only see a few other people, if anyone at all. Anchor each night in a new location, exploring with kayaks and paddleboards, hiking, walking on the beaches, and enjoying bonfires.

On a typical 6-night itinerary, you may anchor at the following locations (depending on weather and wind direction):

• Night #1: Near Tommy Island, just a few miles north of Port Alsworth
• Night #2: Current Creek
• Nights #3 and #4: Head of the lake near the opening to Little Lake Clark. You’ll spend 1–2 days adventuring into Little Lake Clark by dinghy or kayak (larger boats can’t access this area).
• Night #5: Near the islands on the north end of the lake
• Night #6: Near Kijik or in Chulitna Bay

Wildlife Viewing, Fishing, and More

Keep an eye out for bears, moose, and eagles as you take in the scenery at gorgeous spots like Current Creek. Then hop a smaller boat and sail up into Little Lake Clark to explore its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Each day you might enjoy hiking, fishing (for salmon, lake trout, grayling, Arctic char, and northern pike), photography, stand-up paddle boarding, wildlife viewing, and —if you’re feeling adventurous—a quick swim in the glacier-fed waters. You could even arrange for a fly-out trip to go bear viewing, visit Dick Proenneke’s historic cabin, or check out other sites within the park.

Fuel For Your Adventure

Along the way, you’ll enjoy delicious cuisine, which might include a steak or prime rib night, a crab night, and of course iconic Alaskan salmon. One night may involve a festive cookout on the beach, perhaps with ribs followed by yummy s’mores. Each morning, you’ll sit down to a breakfast that may include omelets, reindeer sausage, pancakes, fruit, bagels with smoked salmon (lox) and cream cheese. Lunch could be soups, salads and dips on board, or a sack lunch of sandwiches and chips if you’re out adventuring.