SUP Explorer | Top Ethereal Places to Paddle Board in Alaska
When most people think of paddle boarding, they imagine palm trees, warm beaches, and tropical water. But Alaska? It’s in a league of its own. Towering mountains, glaciers, icy fjords, and remote lakes make paddle boarding in Alaska an unforgettable, bucket-list-worthy adventure.
If you’re ready to experience the raw, majestic beauty of the Last Frontier from the water, here are the best places to paddle board in Alaska.
- Eklutna Lake
- Mendenhall Lake
- Kenai Lake
- Resurrection Bay
- Chena River
- Kachemak Bay
- Byers Lake
1. Eklutna Lake
Located just 45 minutes northeast of Anchorage, you can find a glacially-fed alpine lake with icy blue water and mountain views. Eklutna Lake is great for day trips or overnight camping with SUP access. Mornings are best to avoid afternoon winds.
The water is extremely cold. Drysuits or wetsuits are recommended year-round.
2. Mendenhall Lake
Great for intermediate to advanced paddlers, paddle past icebergs and up to the face of Mendenhall Glacier. Keep your eyes out for wildlife, including bald eagles, arctic terns, and even sometimes bears
Glacial environments change rapidly; always check conditions and consider going with a guide.
3. Kenai Lake
If you're looking for an activity in Southcentral Alaska, consider multi-day trips, camping, or fishing from a paddle board at Kenai Lake. Featuring brilliant turquoise water from glacial melt and panoramic mountain views.
A local favourite is a paddle from Quartz Creek Campground as it's an easy and scenic launch point.
4. Resurrection Bay
Paddle among fjords, sea otters, and snow-capped peaks at Resurrection Bay. Conditions are tidal, so check tide charts and go with a guide if unsure. Be on the lookout for sea otters, puffins, seals, and sometimes whales.
This is a saltwater, open-water adventure: make sure you're experienced and have the right gear!
5. Chena River
A calm, winding river that’s a spot good for beginners or for SUP fishing. In winter, locals ski, bike, or walk across it when frozen, but summer is paddle season.
Shallow and peaceful waters make it easier to learn how to paddle board
6. Kachemak Bay
Paddle along rugged shorelines, kelp forests, and coastal cliffs. Many paddlers explore Halibut Cove or paddle out to Grewingk Glacier Lake via a hike and paddle combo.
Fulfill a multi-day SUP camping trip with access to remote yurt stays and wilderness lodges
7. Byers Lake
Enjoy spending the day on a peaceful lake with views of Denali, just off the Parks Highway between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Plus, if you're lucky you can bump into some wildlife like moose, loons, and bald eagles.
No motorboats allowed = serenity
Found a favourite in Alaska? There's plenty more where that came from. Browse the SUP Explorer map for your next paddle, and gear up with a Thurso board built for exploring.
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