Float

Miles

Difficulty

Days

Comments

Tikchik River from Upnuk Lake

42

class I-II (easy-difficult)

4+

Permit required. Open hills and caribou trails on the upper river provide opportunities for day hikes, exploring and hunting. During low water the river from Upnuk to the confluence flowing from Nishlik Lake can be shallow.

Tikchik River from Nishlik Lake

60

class I-II (easy-difficult)

4+

Permit required. The river is used for floating, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing.  When water levels are low exposed gravel bars are suitable for camping.

Wood River Lakes

85+

class I-III (weather dependent)

5+

The most popular and accessible float trip within the park. This float passes through five lakes and four shallow clear water rivers.  Plan extra days for weather delays. The lakes can be very rough with 2-4 foot breaking waves if wind is present.  Excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Allen River

10

class III-V+ (difficult-  hazardous)

1

Permit required to camp on Chikuminuk Lake. Named posthumously two brothers who thought the river was navigable. It is believed they traveled the river several times. Their final float was fatal. The Allen River has severe rapids and is rarely run by boaters. The upper rapids are difficult; the lower rapids may be impassable. It is highly recommended to portage several class V+ rapids

Nuyakuk River

54+

class II-IV

4+

Extreme caution is recommended when approaching upper Nuyakuk River rapids and falls, just below the Tikchik Lake outlet.  Portage is advised.  Use the Portage Trail around the first rapids to the beach.  Another portage is recommended around dangerous falls just outside the park boundary. First 12 miles of float is in the park. Arrange for pick up by air service prior to departure.