Paddle the glassy, island-dotted waters of Klawock Lake before visiting the Klawock River Hatchery, one of the oldest salmon hatcheries in Alaska. Wild salmon, eagles, and black bears on the riverbanks make this a sensory overload of Alaskan wilderness.
What to expect
After a brief kayaking orientation you launch onto Klawock Lake, a stunning freshwater expanse ringed by old-growth Sitka spruce and hemlock. Your guide points out nesting bald eagles and the tell-tale ripples of Dolly Varden trout beneath your hull. The hatchery stop reveals the full life cycle of Pacific salmon — from eggs in incubation trays to silver smolts heading for the sea — presented by staff who manage one of Alaska's most storied fish programs. In season, you may witness the astounding spectacle of thousands of sockeye returning upstream past your feet.
Good to know
Runs approximately 3 hours. No prior kayaking experience needed; stable sit-on-top kayaks are used. Waterproof footwear essential — the hatchery riverbanks are wet. Book directly at klawockisland.com and specify your group size for equipment staging.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Klawock — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.