27+ Years of Adventures | Over 6000 Happy Guests | Recommended by 98% of Travellers
Trip Stats
- Activity:
- Hiking Kayaking Multisport Family
- Price:
- $4,595 /person
- Duration:
- 7-days
- Length:
- 30+ miles
- Intensity:
- Level 2
- Begins In:
- Anchorage
- Ends In:
- Anchorage
- Airport:
- Anchorage International (ANC)
- Location:
- Lake Clark National Park
- Wildlife:
- Bears, Dall Sheep, Wolves, Moose, Caribou
Featured & Recommended By…
$4,595/Person
Deposit: $1,000
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✅ Flexible Cancellation Policy
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Trip Details
Alaska’s best hiking trip! Guarded by 8,000’ peaks to the east, and endless tundra to the west, Turquoise Lake is nestled between Telaquana Lake and Twin Lakes, in the heart of Lake Clark National Park. This 7-day adventure gives anyone looking for an all-inclusive wilderness hiking experience the chance to thoroughly explore one of Alaska’s most amazing and beautiful watersheds; kayaking the turquoise waters, hiking to the edges of mighty glaciers, and exploring the hillsides searching for a glimpse of the many animals that call this place home. Having kayaks at Turquoise Lake allows us to explore hikes at both the east end and west end of the lake, and also provides the flexibility to do morning or evening paddles from camp. Join Alaska Alpine Adventures for an incredible adventure vacation in the wilderness of the incomparable Lake Clark National Park.
We describe this adventure as Alaska’s best kayak-supported hiking trip, and it is a true classic! As you steal a glimpse of Turquoise Lake from the windows of the floatplane for the first time, you will realize immediately how it received its name, why we keep coming back to this extraordinary place, and why we bring kayaks to fully explore the basin
What’s Included
- All group gear: Expedition quality tents, group tarp, all cooking equipment & eating utensils
- All Kayaking Equipment: Inflatable kayaks, life jackets, paddles plus spares, repair kits, throw bags, and dry bags
- Safety Equipment: Satellite phone, maps, GPS, and medical kit
- Toilet supplies including portable loo, TP, trowel, and hand sanitizer
- Large backpack-style drybag for transporting and storing personal gear while on trip
- Water treatment options
- Trekking poles
- Scenic flight tour between Anchorage and Port Alsworth with the Lake Clark Resort
- All necessary float plane flight tours
- Lodging on the last night at the Lake Clark Resort or Wilder House B&B on Lake Clark
- Professional guide service at a maximum 4:1 client to guide ratio
- All meals from lunch on day one through lunch on the final day of the itinerary
- Storage for your extra travel items while in the backcountry
What’s Not Included
- Personal gear (sleeping bags, packs, rain gear, etc.)
- Trip cancelation insurance
- Additional room nights due to weather delays
- Alcoholic beverages
- Guide gratuities (Suggested 5-10% of the trip price)
Alaska Factor: The Real Deal
While Alaska Alpine Adventures endeavors to follow our itineraries as written, odds are in fact slim that you actually will during the camping portion of this trip. The expeditionary factors at play quite often compel our guides to deviate from the written itinerary. Guide considerations could include weather conditions, group preference, individual ability, specific safety considerations, or unforeseeable circumstances; collectively what many have called “The Alaska Factor.” Flight times into and out of the wilderness may also vary based on any number of similar factors. Therefore we strongly suggest that you approach any adventure in Alaska with an open mind.
Want More Details About This Trip?
Request a FREE EXPEDITION GUIDE! Inside are daily schedules, gear lists, weather info, packing tips from veteran guides, insider tips on getting to and from Alaska, and more. It’s easy to share with friends and family and will help ensure this adventure is right for you and your group.

Cancellation Policy
If We Cancel
We reserve the right to cancel a trip for internal reasons (e.g. low signups, staff injury, gear damage). If that happens, you’ll receive a full refund of what you paid us — nothing more, nothing less.
If “God Cancels”
If your trip is disrupted by something out of everyone’s control — like weather, natural disasters, pandemics, or travel bans — refunds aren’t guaranteed. That’s why we strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance.
If You Cancel
- 60+ days out: Refund minus $500 admin fee or full credit toward a future trip.
- 45–59 days out: No refund, but you can keep 75% as future trip credit. (valid for up to 3 years ).
Less than 45 days: No refund or credit.
Fully Refundable Within 24 Hours
Book with confidence. Change your mind? Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. No stress, no risk.
Premium Trips. Transparent Pricing.
When you reserve directly through Alaska Alpine Adventures—either online or by phone—we guarantee you’ll receive the best available rate for your trip.
Interest-Free Payment Options
Break up the cost—without paying more. Reserve your trip now and spread out payments over time, 100% interest-free.
Why Choose Alaska Alpine Adventures?
We specialize in authentic, small-group expeditions that take you beyond the tourist trails and deep into Alaska’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Recognized by National Geographic Adventure and Outside magazines as offering “Trips of a Lifetime,” we bring over 25 years of expertise, a passion for adventure, and an unwavering commitment to safety.
But with so many outfitters offering trips across the state, what makes Alaska Alpine Adventures the first choice for true wilderness exploration?
Our Guests Say It Best
The true magic of Alaska Alpine Adventures? Our guests say it better than we ever could!
Over 27 Years of Award-Winning Tours
Itinerary
This morning You’ll start the day with an orientation and gear check at our Anchorage facility before heading to Merrill Field for the flight from Anchorage to Port Alsworth, and one of the most stunning bush flights in Alaska. After the hour-long flight, you and your guide team will discuss the adventure and wrap up the trip orientation. We’ll then load into float planes and lift off into the afternoon skies bound for Turquoise Lake – a 40 minute flight to the north of Port Alsworth. We’ll spend a couple of hours setting up camp at the east end of the lake and assembling our kayaks while we begin the process of absorbing the solitude of this silent wilderness. After our first gourmet wilderness dinner and home-baked dessert, you’ll have the chance to do an evening paddle on the lake or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning view
After leaving the comfort of your sleeping bag, you’ll sip your preferred morning beverage as your guide prepares a sumptuous breakfast sure to fuel you for the day ahead. We’ll then strike out for a day of hiking up and into the “grand canyon” of Lake Clark National Park. If weather and river conditions allow, our goal today will be the Turquoise Glacier, via a 6-mile hike up-valley. As you marvel at the 5000’ walls of the canyon and the waterfalls cascading from distant summits, you’ll be left speechless by the surrounding majesty and the vertical relief enveloping you. Otherwise, your guide will take you up one of the incredible side valleys that feed the Turquoise watershed. Regardless, today’s hike will simply leave you in awe and wanting more.
Today we’ll stretch our legs on another amazing hike. We’ll shoulder day packs and head off to explore another one of the mighty drainages that bring glacially churned waters to the head of the lake. We’ll practice our river crossing techniques and surely discuss the forces that have shaped this landscape for thousands of years.
After a leisurely shore-side breakfast, we’ll break down camp, swap our trekking poles for paddles, and launch our inflatable sea kayaks into the pristine waters of Turquoise Lake. Kayaking on Turquoise Lake is both awe inspiring and humbling. As we paddle our way west to our next camp, located on a prominent spit of land on the southwest end of the lake, we’ll crane our necks to take in all of the amazing scenery and scan the shore and surrounding mountain sides for some of the critters that call this place home. Our campsite on the spit provides easy access to the tundra country characteristic of the western slope of the Alaska Range. This is the part of the trip where we’ll really accumulate some hiking miles!
We dedicate our final full-day in the wilderness hiking to and visiting one of the most unique locations in Lake Clark National Park. A few miles south of our camp, nestled deep in the mountains, is the magical ‘sheep lick.’ This mineral lick is a favorite haunt for the majestic Dall’s sheep and we’ll likely see ewes and lambs frolicking on its incredibly steep slopes. This valley has also provided us with some memorable wildlife encounters over the years, so be on the lookout for caribou, wolves, grizzly bears, and wolverines as well. Bound for some to be a trip favorite, this hike is sure to put a satisfying finish atop an incomparable adventure to Turquoise Lake
A breakfast of granola and hot drinks will allow us a leisurely morning to break camp and enjoy our last bit of time in the wilderness. Perhaps a bit soon, the float plane will mark our slow return to the world outside. Our pilot will return us to Port Alsworth, where we’ll check into the quaint cabins just steps from the beach. After hot showers and a celebratory dinner, we’ll tally up our wildlife sightings, and try to digest the humbling euphoria of days spent in total solitude.
After breakfast at the lodge, we’ll pay a morning visit to the Lake Clark National Park visitor’s center where you’ll have a chance to purchase maps and postcards, share stories with park staff, and enjoy interpretive videos and static displays of Lake Clark life. We’ll then strike out on the last hike of the trip along the park’s only developed trail to Tanalian Falls, a spectacular waterfall along the Tanalian River. We’ll then board an afternoon charter flight back to Anchorage, marking an end to the adventure. If you are departing Alaska on this day, please schedule all homebound flights for after 9 pm.
Location
More Trip Reviews
The trip was better than expected and I had high expectations. I wish I had a dollar for every time I said “Wow! Holy S*%$” the backpacking, kayaking, and food were fabulous.
I loved the entire experience you guys are first class!
As a wounded warrior this trip did something for me that nothing else has, brought me a deeper sense of peace. Thank you.
Wow! It was tough, which appeals to me because the toughest things are the sweetest to remember. The gorgeous vistas were worth the work it took to get there. It was the trip of a lifetime for me. The coolest thing I’ve ever done. I’m already thinking about my next trip!
Looking for more reviews? View all trip testimonials.
Trip Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about this trip? We’ve got answers.
Why are so many of your trips in Lake Clark National Park?
Simply because we believe Lake Clark National Park to be the most spectacular and diverse park in Alaska. At over 4-million acres, this wilderness park has something for everyone – miles of coastline, active volcanoes, spectacular lakes, glaciers and icefields, wild and scenic rivers, stunning mountains, and very few visitors. If you seek solitude and the perfect Alaskan landscape, Lake Clark will not disappoint.
Where is Lake Clark?
Lake Clark and its surrounding 4 million-acre national park is located approximately 150 miles West-Southwest of Anchorage.
How do you get to Lake Clark?
Access to Lake Clark National Park is solely by small aircraft or, in some instances, by boat.
Is transportation to Lake Clark included in the price of the trip?
Absolutely, our trips are all inclusive from Anchorage. The trip includes roundtrip flights from Anchorage to Port Alsworth and floatplane flights into and out of the wilderness.
Where will you meet us?
We all meet at our shop in Anchorage on the morning of Day 1 for an orientation and gear check. We’ll then transfer by van to Merrill field for the flight to Port Alsworth – the gateway community to Lake Clark National Park.
Who will I be flying with and what time will we be departing on day one?
You’ll be flying with Lake Clark Resort, or on occasion we also use Lake & Pen Air. Both air taxis are located at Merrill Field. We usually schedule our flight from Anchorage in the morning after an orientation and gear check.
Where is Merrill Field?
Merrill Field is located just east of downtown Anchorage. “Bush” flying is an adventure in and of itself and variable weather conditions may cause delays. We will try to keep you informed of any changes or delays as they occur.
Who was Dick Proenneke?
Dick Proennekelived on Twin Lakes, in the heart of Lake Clark National Park, from 1968-1998. He resided in a small hand-hewn log cabin on the south shore of the upper lake near Hope Creek. Dick, who has been called a modern-day Thoreau, was a prolific writer and photographer. His cabin, which we visit on a number of our adventures, is a testament to his simple lifestyle and a reminder of his dedication to wilderness and conservation.
Is Lake Clark National Park a good place for viewing wildlife?
Lake Clark has been called ‘Alaska’s epitome’ and ‘little Denali’, though at 4 million-acres and roughly the size of Switzerland, the term ‘little’ doesn’t really apply! In addition all 5 species of Pacific salmon, the park is home to grizzly and black bears, Dall’s sheep, caribou, moose, wolves, and tremendous seasonal populations of migratory birds.
I'm traveling solo. Is there a single supplement charge?
We don’t charge a single supplement for our Lake Clark trips. Because space is limited, we’re unable to guarantee private rooms – but we’ll do our best to accommodate. You may end up with your own room or be paired with a fellow solo traveler of the same gender. Either way, we’ll make sure your experience is seamless, comfortable, and unforgettable.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & PARTICIPATION
How physically demanding are your trips?
Each of our adventures involves physical activity, but you don’t need to be an elite athlete. We rate each trip from Level 1 to Level 4, and you’ll find exact mileage and elevation info on each itinerary. If you can hike for a few hours with a pack, you’ll likely do great — and your guides are trained to help pace the trip to the group’s needs.
Do I need to be an experienced backpacker or kayaker?
Not at all. Most of our guests are active travelers, not survival experts. Whether it’s your first multi-day backcountry trip or your tenth, our guides will show you the ropes and make sure you’re comfortable with everything from river crossings to camp life.
What’s the best way to prepare physically for this trip?
We recommend staying active in the months leading up to your trip — regular walking, hiking, light strength training, and mobility exercises can go a long way. If you can hike comfortably with a daypack and enjoy being outdoors for several hours, you’ll be in good shape for most of our trips.
What if I’m older than the rest of the group?
Not a problem. Many of our guests are in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. What matters most is your attitude, not your age. We design trips with a range of activity levels and provide support to help you feel strong and capable every step of the way.
What if I can’t keep up with the group?
Our guides are trained to manage a wide range of fitness levels. We hike at a group pace, take breaks, and support each other. If you’re nervous, just let us know — we can help match you to the right trip and provide tips to prep.
What if I’m not “outdoorsy” enough?
You don’t need to be a hardcore backpacker. You just need a spirit of adventure and a willingness to try something new. We’ll guide you, support you, and make sure you’re comfortable the whole way.
Can I participate if I have a medical condition or use a CPAP?
Many medical conditions can be managed on trip with planning. If you use a CPAP, let us know early so we can help assess feasibility depending on the itinerary. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs safely.
GEAR & PACKING
What gear do I need to bring — and what do you provide?
We provide all group gear (tents, cooking equipment, safety gear, etc.). You’ll need to bring personal items like a sleeping bag, hiking boots, rain gear, and clothing. We also rent a few key items. A detailed gear list is provided for each trip, and we’re happy to help you prepare.
Is the gear you provide actually high quality?
Yes — we partner with premium brands like Hilleberg, Black Diamond, and MSR. This isn’t rental-grade gear. We invest in top-tier equipment so you’re safe, warm, and dry no matter the weather.
What do I do with extra luggage or valuables?
We offer secure storage for any luggage you don’t need while in the field. We recommend leaving valuables at home whenever possible — this is a chance to travel light and disconnect.
Can I bring a camera or drone? How do I charge devices?
Yes to cameras — and many guests bring small solar chargers or power banks. Drones are not permitted in most national parks, so we recommend leaving them at home unless explicitly allowed.
What about protecting my gear from rain or water?
We provide waterproof dry bags for our water-based trips and will guide you on how to pack your gear securely. Rain is always a possibility in Alaska, so keeping things dry is a top priority — and we’re good at it.
FOOD, DRINK & DIETARY NEEDS
What kind of food do you serve in the backcountry?
Think gourmet camp cuisine — hearty, home-cooked meals like curry, chili, brownies, and great coffee. We cater to many dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan. That said, menu variety may be more limited for special diets. Please let us know early so we can accommodate you.
Can you accommodate special diets or food allergies?
Yes, in most cases. We can provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals — with the understanding that remote cooking has limits. Vegan and gluten-free meals may include specialty dehydrated options, and we may ask you to bring some personal snacks.
Can I bring my own snacks or personal food items?
Absolutely. Especially if you have specific preferences or dietary needs, we recommend bringing a few of your favorite bars, snacks, or trail-friendly items.
What about alcohol?
We don’t provide alcohol on our trips, but you’re welcome to bring a small amount for personal use where appropriate. Just remember, this is a wilderness setting — moderation and safety always come first.
What if I’m a picky eater or used to fancier meals?
We aim to impress even seasoned foodies — but wilderness cooking has its limits. If you’re used to fine dining, be open to the rustic charm of hearty, satisfying meals prepared in the backcountry with care and creativity.
CAMP LIFE & COMFORT
What are the bathroom arrangements like?
This is a common concern, so let’s talk about it. For our basecamp and water-based trips, we bring a clean, portable backcountry toilet and provide all supplies. Your guides will explain everything clearly and respectfully — and yes, there’s privacy.
How do I stay clean during the trip?
You won’t have a shower, but you can feel clean. We recommend biodegradable wipes, a personal towel, and a good “wilderness hygiene” kit. Many guests are surprised how quickly they adjust — and how refreshing a glacier-fed lake rinse can feel.
What if I need to manage feminine hygiene?
We encourage you to bring whatever products work best for you. We provide the know-how to manage it comfortably and respectfully in the wilderness — you won’t be the first or the last.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
We provide high-quality tents for either shared (same-gender) or solo use, depending on your preference. Sleeping is typically two per tent unless a single supplement is requested. Campsites are scenic, quiet, and often unforgettable.
Will I be able to swim or bathe in lakes or rivers?
Yes — when conditions allow, a quick dip is often one of the highlights. Just be aware that Alaska’s water is cold, even in summer, so this is more of a refreshing rinse than a spa soak.
What about bugs and critters?
Yes, there are bugs — especially early summer. But we’ll guide you on how to dress, what repellent works, and how to stay comfortable. Some people hardly notice them, others bring a head net and are glad they did.
SAFETY & EMERGENCIES
Will I get eaten by a bear?
No. We are in bear country, yes — but our guides are highly trained in wildlife safety, carry bear spray, and follow strict protocols. Most bear sightings are peaceful, distant, and deeply memorable.
What if I get sick or injured out there?
Our guides are certified Wilderness First Responders and carry emergency communication devices. We’re fully prepared to handle illness or injury and can initiate evacuation procedures if needed.
Can people contact me in case of emergency?
Once we’re in the field, there’s no cell service — but we carry satellite devices that allow two-way communication in case of emergency.
Will there be communication devices like a satellite phone?
Yes. Our guides carry both satellite phones and Garmin InReach devices on every trip. These allow us to stay in contact for emergencies, weather updates, or coordination with floatplanes.
RESERVATIONS & PAYMENT
How far in advance should I book?
Many of our trips sell out 6–9 months in advance — especially for peak summer dates. Booking early guarantees your spot and gives you time to prepare.
What’s the deposit and cancellation policy?
A $1,000 deposit holds your spot. Cancel more than 60 days in advance for a refund minus a $500 admin fee, or keep the full amount as credit. Inside 60 days, partial or no refunds apply. Full details are available on our website.
Can I make payments over time?
Yes — after the deposit, the balance is due 60 days prior to your trip. We’re happy to work with you to split payments leading up to that point.
What if the trip I want is sold out?
We recommend joining the waitlist — we sometimes get cancellations, and we’ll contact you if a spot opens. You can also call us to explore other similar trips.
Do you offer travel insurance or recommend any providers?
We strongly recommend travel insurance. Many guests use Travel Guard. It protects your investment in case of weather delays, illness, or other interruptions.
What if Alaska Alpine Adventures has to cancel?
If we cancel due to internal reasons (staffing, logistics), you’ll receive a full refund. In the case of weather or force majeure (e.g., wildfires, pandemics), our regular cancellation policy applies — which is why travel insurance is so important.
GROUPS & SOLO TRAVEL
Is this trip good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many of our guests come solo and leave with new trail friends. We’ll pair you with a same-gender tent mate unless you request a private tent.
Do I have to share a tent or room with someone?
If you’re traveling solo, we’ll pair you with a same-gender guest, or you can pay a single supplement for your own space (subject to availability).
Can I book a private group trip or charter?
Yes! We regularly design private adventures for families, friend groups, or company retreats. Contact us to create a custom itinerary.
Do you offer group discounts or referral incentives?
We occasionally offer discounts for groups or returning guests. If you’re bringing friends or booking multiple spots, reach out and we’ll do our best to take care of you.
What’s the group size — and who else will be on the trip?
We cap trips at just 8 guests to keep things intimate and personal. Our guests range from solo travelers to couples and friends, usually in their 30s–60s, all looking for a genuine Alaskan adventure.
WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Why is this trip so expensive compared to others I’ve seen?
We get it — there are cheaper Alaska trips out there. But this isn’t a basic sightseeing tour. This is an all-inclusive, small-group, deep-wilderness adventure run by seasoned Alaskan guides, including bush flights, premium food, and expert logistics. Every detail is handled — so you can focus on the experience, not the stress.
What makes this different from a cheaper or shorter tour?
In a word? Immersion. Our trips aren’t about ticking boxes or sitting in vans. We get you into the wild, not just near it — with real connection, fewer people, and expert guides who live for this work.
Will I be completely offline — what about cell signal?
There’s no cell signal once we leave the floatplane — and most guests tell us it’s one of the most refreshing parts of the experience.
I’m nervous about being unreachable.
We get it — that can feel unsettling. But while you’ll be offline, our guides carry emergency satellite devices that can be used to contact the outside world if needed. Most guests find that once they settle in, being unplugged feels more freeing than scary.
What wildlife might we see — and how do you manage safety?
Depending on the trip, you may see bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and more. We respect all wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles, observing from safe distances and never interfering.
What kind of weather should I expect?
Alaska weather is unpredictable. Expect everything from sun to rain to wind — sometimes in the same day. We’ll send a full packing list and tips for preparing, but the key is flexibility and layering.
Want More Details About This Trip?
Request a FREE EXPEDITION GUIDE! Inside are daily schedules, gear lists, weather info, packing tips from veteran guides, insider tips on getting to and from Alaska, and more. It’s easy to share with friends and family and will help ensure this adventure is right for you and your group.














