Both the Swan Lake and Swanson River Routes are a systems of small lakes, wetlands, and rivers connected by portages varying from a few hundred feet to over a mile. The landscape is rolling hill country (most hills are not over 200-300 feet) covered in white spruce and birch with striking vistas of the Kenai Mountains to the east. Portages vary considerably from dry, hilly areas to muskeg. Most wet portages have been improved with boardwalks for passage, but some still require improvements.This canoe route begins in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and ends at the Captain Cook State Recreation Site.

Address:
38.5 Kenai Spur Highway

Driving Directions:
From Anchorage, travel on the Seward Highway and exit west onto the Sterling Highway. Travel westward to mile 83.5 of the Sterling Highway and turn north onto Swanson River Road by the Sterling Elementary School. Continue on Swanson River Road for 17 miles to the junctions of Swan Lake Road. Turn east on Swan Lake Road to travel to one of the three trail head entrances to the canoe routes.