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Charley River Rafting Adventure- Trip Itinerary

Whitewater Rafting on the Charley and Yukon Rivers in Yukon- Charley Rivers National Preserve

• Dates: May 28 through June 6, 2012.

• Region: Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve in Interior Alaska. The Charley is a National Wild and Scenic River.

• Cost: $2,900 per person from Fairbanks.

Sketch of the Charley River Rafting trip…

A four-seater plane will land you, your trip-mates and guide(s) on a gravel landing strip in the upper Charley River, a remote Wild and Scenic River in the pristine Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve. The National Park Service created this park because of its rich human history and its stunning natural beauty. The Charley River flows first through an open valley where far away mountain peaks are over 6,000 feet high and shine in the midnight sunlight.

The river valley then narrows and the river has cut its way through the bedrock, flowing swiftly past bluffs and cliffs. We will enjoy navigating through boulder strewn rapids as the river plummets towards the Yukon Valley. After leaving the mountains the current slows and we will have more time to stare through the crystal clear water to the colorful pebbles below and to study the moss-filled woods in hopes of seeing wildlife. After enjoying this Wild and Scenic River for over 100 miles we will paddle out to the mighty Yukon River.

The adventure is far from over when we reach the Yukon River. Along the Yukon we will see tall bluffs with nesting raptors, car-sized chunks of ice left stranded on the sandbars, historic cabins and wildlife such as grizzly bears, lynx and moose. The Yukon is huge even here in its upper reaches, both its size and speed are impressive.

Early June is a magical time this far north. The land is waking from its long winter sleep. The sun shines and the birds sing nearly all night long. The Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve has one of North America’s highest densities of nesting peregrine falcons. You may also see caribou, moose, wolves, black and grizzly bears and a wide variety of waterfowl and songbirds (including Northern Shrikes and Rusty Blackbirds).

This is a moderately difficult river trip, with stretches of Class II and III rapids, and steady paddling, in total 150 miles. No experience is required for paddle rafting, as instruction is provided. Everyone joins in the fun of paddling the boats under the guidance of a raft captain.