Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
For 50 years, NOVA has been running Lions Head trips, offering nonstop thrills on this powerhouse glacial river. Featuring crashing waves and Class III & IV boulder gardens, the adventure creates a consistent rush of excitement! With a variety of rapids to conquer, this unforgettable experience is perfect for everyone—from first-timers to seasoned adventurers seeking an action-packed ride. You’ll be outfitted with top-of-the-line gear and guided by expert instructors to ensure a safe, exciting experience.
The Lions Head section of the Matanuska River is not only NOVA's original river trip, it’s where our journey as a company began in 1975. Over the decades, we’ve perfected this iconic trip, which remains our most popular whitewater rafting adventure. With stunning mountain views, rugged landscapes, and several miles of thrilling Class III & IV rapids, this half-day trip is a local treasure in the Mat-Su Valley, offering an exhilarating taste of Alaska’s wilderness. Let's go!
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Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
What's included in Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Experience the thrill of Alaska’s whitewater! Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride on this premier Class III & IV river, racing through crashing waves between two dramatic mountain ranges—the jagged Chugach and the ancient Talkeetnas. This scenic alpine region is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering breathtaking vistas in every direction, with the massive Matanuska Glacier visible on the tour. The adventure begins on Caribou Creek, a low-volume tributary that serves as the perfect training ground before you tackle the bigger rapids downstream. As the creek merges with the glacial currents of the South Fork, the river transforms into powerful Class III & IV rapids. Traveling alongside the Matanuska Glacier’s moraine, the South Fork takes you past the iconic ‘Lion’s Head’—a massive volcanic plug that rises from the valley floor. Shaped like a lion’s head, it stands proudly amidst the rugged landscape before the river surges into more thrilling whitewater. Located just two hours north of Anchorage, this is the perfect half-day adventure!
Inclusions
- Professional river guide
- Shuttle transportation to and from activity.
- River dry suit, river boots, life jacket, and helmet
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for travelers under 12 yrs, over 67 yrs
- Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Mile 96.5 Glenn Hwy. At Hick's Creek bridge turn into Trailhead Rd. Follow the driveway under the bridge and proceed to our camp check-in location.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Please remember that Alaskan highways can cause delays with road construction, motor homes, and vehicle accidents. Please plan on these potential delays and leave early enough to make sure your party is not late for trip check-in time! We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to sign Nova's trip waiver. Please make sure you meet our trip limitations stated on our website. If anyone is outside these limitations, please email our office so we can evaluate the information. What to Wear Whitewater Rafting: Our Dry-suits are shells that keep you dry and dry only, with room to wear your own warm clothing underneath. Alaska rivers are cold so please dress warm even on hot days. Remember layers of clothing will help keep you warm and comfortable (we go rafting rain or shine). NOVA provides everything you need besides warm layers for the river including Dry-suits to wear over your clothes, PFD (Personal Floatation Device), river boots, & helmet. Layers made from fleece or wool (Not cotton) Long warm pants (no shorts) Tall warm socks (no cotton) Long sleeve warm top layer Sweatshirt or jacket (No hoodies) Sunglasses with ear strap Please have your booking confirmation # prepared at trip check-in. See our website for more trip details. www.novalaska.com. Thank you! Nova team
