This is possibly the best way to indulge in the serene beauty of the valley. The Gulkana River is an easy going, mostly gentle route that features wildlife viewing, salmon fishing, and great banks to stop, make a fire and enjoy lunch. Both pet and kid friendly, we’ve enjoyed many trips down this river, swimming on hot summer days and cooking more than one smore while beginners and experts fished together nearby.
Where to Start
To begin planning your river adventure, we recommend you load in at Sailor’s Pit, and load out at the Gulkana River Bridge. When you arrive, stop at the entrance sign and purchase a parking permit. Great campsites can be reserved at Sailor’s Pit to continue your wilderness outing. While there aren’t many services at the sites, the entire campground is laid out on a soft forest bed under the spruce trees, on a bluff directly above the river. It’s a beautiful location, and perfect for families, friends and pets!
Preparing To Float: The river is gentle enough that you can use a raft, cat raft, kayak, inner tubes or even a paddle board to float it (paddle board not recommended for beginners however.) We usually take all gear and people to Sailor’s Pit with two vehicles, then taxi one vehicle to the load out location and return to the group to head out. The trip takes about 2-3 hours if you float nonstop. This allows for a quick outing, or plenty of time to play or fish.
Things To Know
Be aware that this river is gentle but not deep, and you need to keep an eye out for both large rocks and shallow gravel bars under the water. Follow the current, avoid getting swept into the bank on sharp corners, and when you pick a side, stick to it. Pack plenty of food, water, bug spray and a swim suit and towel on warm days. Wear water shoes or strapped sandals (we’ve lost more than one slide on shoe to this river) and bring firewood if you plan to start a fire (please leave the natural resources alone, and pack out what you bring in.)
Fishing the Gulkana River: Get your permit, a rod, and chase the salmon! You can head out on your own, or look into fish guides in the valley that can provide an organized experience. Read the rules on hooking the fish, determine your style of rod, and bring a net. Hip waiters are recommended as the water is quite cold even on warm days. Mosquitoes can get ferocious, be prepared.
It is very common to see eagles on this float. You’ll see both the classic bald eagle (black feathers, white head) and juvenile bald eagles (when younger, they look more like golden eagles with brown and black all over.) Eagle feathers can often be found on the river banks, and while it is tempting to take them home, it is actually illegal to possess any part of an eagle, including feathers, with a few defined exceptions.
Please leave the land undisturbed, and take away only photos and memories.
Gulkana Guest Cabin 
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