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Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting

4 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 4 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Alaska, USA
Book online or call us

from $139 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting Image 4
Matanuska Glacier Lions Head Whitewater Rafting
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

For 50 years, NOVA has been running Lions Head trips, offering nonstop thrills on this powerhouse glacial river. Featuring crashing waves and Class III & IV boulder gardens, the adventure creates a consistent rush of excitement! With a variety of rapids to conquer, this unforgettable experience is perfect for everyone—from first-timers to seasoned adventurers seeking an action-packed ride. You’ll be outfitted with top-of-the-line gear and guided by expert instructors to ensure a safe, exciting experience.

The Lions Head section of the Matanuska River is not only NOVA's original river trip, it’s where our journey as a company began in 1975. Over the decades, we’ve perfected this iconic trip, which remains our most popular whitewater rafting adventure. With stunning mountain views, rugged landscapes, and several miles of thrilling Class III & IV rapids, this half-day trip is a local treasure in the Mat-Su Valley, offering an exhilarating taste of Alaska’s wilderness.

What's Included

  • River dry suit, river boots, life jacket, and helmet
  • Professional river guide
  • Transportation from Anchorage
  • Photos for sale
  • Gratuity for Guide
See 3 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

38100 Glenn Highway
Glacier View, AK 99674, USA

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Experience the thrill of Alaska’s whitewater! Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride on this premier Class III & IV river, racing through crashing waves between two dramatic mountain ranges—the jagged Chugach and the ancient Talkeetnas.

This scenic alpine region is surrounded by rising peaks, offering breathtaking vistas in every direction, with the massive Matanuska Glacier visible on the shuttle to your put in. The adventure begins on Caribou Creek, a low-volume tributary that serves as the perfect training ground before you tackle the bigger rapids downstream.

As the creek merges with the glacial currents of the South Fork, the river transforms into powerful Class III & IV rapids. Traveling alongside the Matanuska Glacier’s moraine, the South Fork takes you past the iconic ‘Lion’s Head’—a massive volcanic plug that rises from the valley floor. Shaped like a lion’s head, it stands proudly amidst the rugged landscape before the river surges into more thrilling whitewater.

Located just two hours north of Anchorage, this is the perfect half-day adventure!

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
  • Must understand English
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: Will I get seasick on Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-453454P5

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
4 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 4 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AKST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • River dry suit, river boots, life jacket, and helmet.
  • Professional river guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Transportation from Anchorage.
  • Photos for sale.
  • Gratuity for Guide.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 12..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting is as follows:

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers under 12 yrs, over 67 yrs
  • Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
  • Must understand English
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Matanuska River Lions Head Whitewater Rafting will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • River dry suit, river boots, life jacket, and helmet
  • Professional river guide
  • Transportation from Anchorage
  • Photos for sale
  • Gratuity for Guide

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers under 12 yrs, over 67 yrs
  • Not recommended for travelers under 100lbs, over 250lbs
  • Must understand English
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers

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