Visiting the Refuge

Refuge Canoe System

What to Expect
Swan Lake Route
Swanson River Route
Special Consideration
Canoe Trip Checklist
Water Safety
For More Information
A Little Bit About Bears
Central Kenai Peninsula Canoe Rentals

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Canoe Trail System was originally constructed in the 1960's for the enjoyment of recreationists seeking a remote wilderness experience. As use increased in the 1970's, the need was recognized to formally set aside the system as a unit of the National Wilderness Preservation System, not only for wilderness recreation, but also to protect the habitat for wilderness wildlife including trumpeter swans, loons, wolves, and brown bears.

In 1980, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) created a new wilderness unit encompassing the Refuge Canoe Trail System. In 1981, the system received national recognition becoming part of the National Recreation Trails System. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Canoe Trail System is separated into two areas: the Swanson River and Swan Lake Routes. Both are located in the refuge's northern lowland spruce and birch forest habitat. These canoe routes consist of lakes and rivers connected by water or land portages creating a variety of trip options.

Special Consideration:

Party size is limited to a maximum of 15. All canoeists are required to register in log books at route entrances before going out.

As a word of caution - the larger lakes in the system can become quite rough in windy conditions. Know your canoeing ability and stay close to shore.

Keep in mind that the canoe system is wilderness. No mechanized or wheeled devices such as canoe carts are allowed.

Portages are land or water passages connecting lakes. Most portages are foot trails ranging from a few feet to almost a mile in length. The terrain varies from hills with uneven exposed roots to boggy, spongy ground.

People choose several ways to tackle portages. These vary from making several trips across a portage carrying canoe and gear separately, to one person carrying a backpack with personal gear and canoe all in one trip. Portage trails are minimally maintained. However, in a few wet areas, boardwalks have been constructed to decrease wetland damage and make portaging safer.

Currently campsites are not designated in the canoe system. Campers are encouraged to use sites previously established. To find previously used sites (which are often the only "high and dry"; areas), look near lake shorelines. Minimum impact camping is stressed to protect wildlife and the wilderness character of the area.

Be aware that wildlife also use portages in their travels. Camping on or near portages may increase bear encounters and is not advised. Although island campsites are popular and attractive areas for canoeists, their use is strongly discouraged. Islands provide protected areas that are easily damaged and important nesting and resting areas for wildlife.

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Canoe Trip Checklist:

Water Safety

All boaters are required to wear life jackets.

Carry an extra paddle. Tie gear into your canoe securely.

Lakes are dangerous during high winds. Don't take chances; paddle to shore and wait out the weather. If your canoe tips over, stay with it and work toward shore.

Narrow rivers require paddlers to maneuver in tight oxbows and to avoid rocks and brush. To successfully negotiate these hazards, intermediate level canoeing skills are needed in the Swanson and Moose Rivers.

For More Information:

Regulations specific to the Kenai refuge canoe system

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Canoe System brochure

Trails Illustrated Kenai National Wildlife Refuge/Chugach National Forest Map

Last updated: September 11, 2008