Chilitna River Rafting

[alaskandreamer]

Hello,

 

Can anyone tell me if they have taken the scenic river rafting trip of the Chilitna River from the Princess Mt Mckinley Lodge?

 

Is it as good as it sounds? They claim to float past several active eagle nests and go through territory or moose and bears. But are your wildlife viewing chances really that great?

 

We are planning on taking this trip as part of a land excursion from our cruise tour and we would love to see and phootgraph some wildlife from the river. Is this tour worth taking???

 

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks!

[PennyAgain]

I know that area fairly well. Yes you will see some wildlife, but it is not a zoo. The animals may not be standing around waiting for you to pass.

 

Reports on this particular tour have been mixed.

 

So far as eagle's nests are concerned, what you see depends on the date of your trip and the angle of the sun.

 

So basically the answer is: no promises and no guarantees of seeing what you desire.

[alaskandreamer]

Thanks Pennyagain.

I know that the wildlife dictates when it is seen. And hopefully they will cooperate.

I was just wondering if you can see the eagle nests clearly from the rafts?

Do they pull over next to them etc.

We are going at the end of July-begining of August so will the salmon being in the rivers possibly help with seeing eagles and bears?

I have always dreamed of seeing them up close.

Where I'm from eagles aren't all that common and are a blessing if seen.

 

Thanks again!

 

I know a lot of luck is also involved.

[PennyAgain]

Here is a link to the Hornby Island eagles' nest in British Columbia. Fascinating to watch. http://www.hornbyeagles.com/webcam.htm

 

Note how high up the nest is above the water and how windy it is.

 

From the water you will only see the bottoms of nests and some eagles flying. If the parents are fishing/hunting you may see them along the river.

 

Watching the WEB cam you will seen realize how much the baby eagles eat.