Upper Kenai River
World Renowned Waters
World-renowned for its stunning scenery and world-class fishing opportunities, Kenai (kee-nye) River runs 82 river miles from the headwaters of Kenai Lake to the mouth of the Cook Inlet. The glacial fed waters are navigable the entire length. Called Kahtnu, in the Dena’ina language, Kenai River flows through the Kenai Mountain Range, the Chugach National Forest, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and into the Pacific Ocean near the towns of Kenai and Soldotna.
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The Upper Kenai is classified as the 17 river miles between Kenai Lake and Skilak Lake. This section is surrounded by mountains as it flows through the glacial valley, no wider than two miles across. It is designated as non-motorized and is a drift-only corridor. Here you will find peace and tranquility as you look for wildlife, cast a line in the water, and paddle the turquoise waters.
Why is the Water so Blue?
The vibrant turquoise color you see comes from the geology of the glacial valley. During the Ice Age, glaciers covered the Kenai Peninsula. As these glaciers receded over time, powerful erosional forces formed the U-shaped valley we see today. Kenai and Skilak Lake are considered moraine-impounded glacial lakes that were formed when glacial debris, called a moraine, forms a dam and holds in water as the glacier melts.
​​This meltwater contains glacial silt, called rock flour, that is created as glaciers grind against rocks chipping away small particles of rock and minerals. This silt is carried in the meltwater that flows into the lakes. In this process, small particles remain suspended in the water and gradually settle to the bottom.
​The blue-green color is then produced by the sunlight. As light rays enter the water, the silt scatters the shorter purple and indigo wavelengths, but absorb the longer red, oranges, and yellow wavelengths. Leaving the blue and green wavelengths to bounce back to our eyes.
Sustaining Life
Biodiversity
The Kenai River watershed serves as a vital component of the Kenai Peninsula. The river is an important ecological resource that sustains numerous species. Bears, moose, birds, and more call this area home and wouldn’t survive without the river system. It is the lifeline of the celebrated Alaska Salmon, which is in turn the lifeline of many others.
The Kenai River supports a healthy ecosystem and a diverse population of fish. The river is best known for its salmon runs, but it also supports various other fish species. Certain species are resident to the river, completing their entire life cycle within its waters. Other species are anadromous, meaning they spend part of their life in freshwater and part of their life in salt water. Salmon, for example, are anadromous starting their lives in fresh water, then navigating to the ocean for several years, before returning back to fresh water to spawn. ​​
Here Fishy, Fishy...
Commonly Seen Fish Species
Rainbow Trout
Are our favorite fish to catch, photograph and release. These native resident fish are amazing fighters and in the Kenai river system all year.
Silver (Coho) Salmon
Don't arrive until late August. These rambunctious fish give anglers lots of jumping action throughout the fall.
Dolly Varden
Arctic chars have light spots in white, red, or yellow. These beautiful fighters can grow to be 27 pounds and are perfect to photograph & release.
Pink (Humpy) Salmon
Come into the Kenai River in force every even year. They can be great fun to catch but are not prized for their meat.
Sockeye (Red) Salmon
Are the lifeblood of the Kenai. They feed the entire food chain with their eggs, smolt and carcasses. Reds are almost exclusively caught from shore.
King (Chinook) Salmon
These monsters can weigh over 90 pounds and spawn in the Upper Kenai River. There is no fishing for Kings in this area.
The Upper Kenai River flows through the wilderness from Kenai to Skilak Lakes and, because it's non-motorized, offers anglers pristine fishing beyond compare. Drift boat guides and outfitters help visitors fish for sockeye and coho salmon, Dolly Varden and monster rainbow trout. Boats typically launch from the Kenai Lake outlet just after the bridge at Sterling Hwy MP 47.5 and take out at Jim's Landing, near MP 58. If you prefer bank fishing, try your luck at MP 47.5, 50.7, 55, 57 or 58. Yes, you can move along the stream as you fish, but please respect private property!
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The Russian River flows north from Upper Russian Lake, through Lower Russian Lake and into the Kenai River. Near the confluence, the Russian River Ferry carries foot passengers to the busiest "combat-fishing" spot in Alaska. Be prepared for crowds when the salmon run is hot. It’s not uncommon to fish within four feet of other fishers – on both sides of you!
The Perfect Cast
Russian River
Boating Safety
Don't let the river's leisurely appearance fool you. Although the Kenai River may appear calm, there are several obstacles that require careful navigation, particularly for less experienced oarsmen. Rafting on the Kenai River requires following specific safety regulations and being aware of current river conditions. It is important to note potential hazards such as gravel bars, rocks, and changing water levels.
Kids Don't Float
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Kids don't float, nor do adults. Glacial fed water are particularly cold and even the best of swimmers can suffer from hypothermia. Several launches offer life jackets to borrow for free, through the "Kids Don't Float" program. Remember, adults should wear life jackets, too! Be prepared, most boating fatalities in Alaska result from drowning or hypothermia.
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Getting on the Water
​If you want to get on the water, Cooper Landing is the place to launch. The Kenai River watershed offers a variety of activities for watersport enthusiasts, making it one of the must-see destinations in Alaska. Enjoy turquoise tranquility on a gentle, scenic day float or liven it up with a thrilling Class III whitewater run through Kenai Canyon. River trips are generally 2-4 hours, or 5-8 hours if you include the canyon. Watch for eagles, songbirds, waterfowl, bears, moose and more as you float through the incredible wilderness beauty.
Launching Your Boat
In the center of town, at the outlet of Kenai Lake, you’ll find the Cooper Landing bridge that connects one side of the town to the other. Here is the first boat launch. It is operated by Alaska State Parks and you’ll need to pay a fee to launch your boat. Float roughly six river miles to the next boat landing at Sportsman’s Boat Launch. There is also a launching fee at this location. From here you’ll enter the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll get away from the highway and man-made structures. In roughly six more river miles, you’ll come to Jim’s Landing. This is a popular take-out point for most boaters. You’ll need a motor or a pickup plan in you intend to go down the Kenai Canyon. This section is not recommended for beginners. From Jim’s you’ll encounter two miles of fast moving whitewater, before mellowing out for the last three miles to Skilak Lake.
Boating Etiquette
The Kenai River averages about 70,000 boaters a year. For your safety and smoother put-ins and take-outs for all, please adhere to the following:
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Load and unload your boat, (staging of gear & supplies) away from the launch area.
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All boaters need to wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) on the river.
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If you are fishing, wear eye protection (sunglasses) and a hat to deflect errant hooks.
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Do not clean fish in boat loading areas!
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Pick up your trash.
Kenai Canyon
Live to Tell the Tale
Wear Your Life Jacket
