Denali State Park, the little cousin to the more well-known national park to the west, is one of Alaska's best kept secrets. This kayak trip takes visitors for a relaxed paddle on the park's serene Byers Lake.
Relaxed paddle on the serene Byers Lake.
As guests arrive to the tour operator's lakeside base, they're outfitted with rain gear as needed, lifejackets, and paddles. The operator runs single and tandem sit-on-top kayaks ideal for novice paddlers. These boats are stable in the water and easy to maneuver. Even guests who have never sat in a kayak before quickly settle into a smooth paddle as they take to the quiet lake with their guide.
Byers Lake is only open to non-motorized boats, so the area is tranquil. All manner of wildlife frequent these waters. Migrating water fowl like Trumpeter Swans and loons come to the lake to nest, and several species of salmon return every year to spawn. The area is also a thriving bear habitat, and it's not uncommon for kayakers to catch a quick glimpse of a black bear along the densely forested bank. After about two hours of leisurely kayaking, the tour returns to the boat launch.
The Denali Kayak Trip provides guests with stable single or tandem sit-on-top kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. Rain pants and jackets, boots or crocs, and dry bags for cameras are provided as needed for the weather.
This active outdoor adventure operates in most weather conditions. It is important to dress in synthetic layers. Consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long hiking pants (not jeans), light rain jacket, comfortable shoes, and a hat.
Guests should be prepared for three hours of moderate activity. Beginner kayakers are welcome.
The Denali Kayak Trip provides complimentary transportation from the McKinley Princess Lodge. Self-drive guests can meet the tour at the Byers Lake Day Use Area at mile 147 on the Parks Highway.
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rates apply to children under the age of 12.
| Dates | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| 6/1/25 (Su) to 9/1/25 (M)6/1/25 (Su) to 9/1/25 (M) | Adult: $109.00 | Child: $79.00 |
| The rates above are subject to change without notice. | ||
Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 9:00 AM | Location: McKinley Princess Lodge |
| Depart: 9:15 AM | Location: Byer's Lake Day Use Area |
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 12:30 PM | Location: McKinley Princess Lodge |
| Depart: 12:45 PM | Location: Byer's Lake Day Use Area |
Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.
"Very fun tour. I enjoyed the kayak trip much more than I anticipated. The guide was very professional and informational. The awesome view of Denali didn't hurt either!"
~Scott from Utah~
