This powerhouse glacial river is packed with thrills, crashing waves, and nonstop excitement. Experience the rare evening twilight and tackle larger rapids on the Midnight Sun Run—an unforgettable whitewater adventure like no other!
The Matanuska River is where NOVA’s journey began in 1975, and with 50 years of experience on these waters, we know how to bring you the best of this stunning river. Located just two hours north of Anchorage, this iconic half-day trip offers unparalleled mountain views and miles of consistent Class III & IV rapids.
Outfitted with top-of-the-line gear and guided by our expert team, you’ll experience the rush of Alaska’s wild rivers in a safe and exhilarating setting. Surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery, this adventure is a true Alaskan treasure. Let’s go!
NOVA’s Midnight Sun Run offers a truly unforgettable experience, where you can feel the power of a glacial-fed river under the rare twilight skies of Alaska. As water levels peak during this evening adventure, you'll encounter a side of the Lions Head section that’s unlike the morning or afternoon runs—larger waves, deeper holes, and an unmatched thrill as you navigate through this stretch of consistent rapids. This trip is our most popular among local Alaskans who are craving MORE! Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride through one of Alaska’s premier Class III & IV rivers, racing between two dramatic mountain ranges—the jagged Chugach and the ancient Talkeetnas. Surrounded by breathtaking vistas, snow-capped peaks, and the massive Matanuska Glacier, this is a scenic adventure like no other. The excitement kicks off on Caribou Creek, a low-volume tributary that prepares you for the bigger rapids downstream. As Caribou merges with the glacial waters of the South Fork, you’ll take on powerful Class III & IV rapids, surrounded by some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in Alaska. Located just 2 hours north of Anchorage.
You will make your own way to the meeting points
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