Rivers to Riches Rafting Expeditions – 3 & 4 Days
per person
Trace the Path of Pioneers: An Intimate 4-River McCarthy, Alaska Rafting Adventure
Journey through the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park on an exclusive McCarthy, Alaska river rafting expedition that follows historic prospectors’ routes while experiencing four of Alaska’s most stunning rivers. Our Rivers to Riches expedition offers an intimate wilderness experience limited to just 10 guests, ensuring personalized attention and an unmatched connection to this raw, untamed landscape.
A Journey Through Time and Wilderness
Float beneath towering peaks on silty glacial waters as you traverse the Kennicott, Nizina, Chitina, and Copper Rivers. Each bend reveals new wonders: soaring eagles against snow-capped mountains, curious bears foraging along pristine shorelines, and the dramatic confluences of ancient rivers that once guided prospectors to their fortunes.
Witness the grand sweep of the Wrangell and St. Elias ranges, including spectacular views of Mt. Blackburn and the Grand Parapet. As you navigate the twisting Nizina River Canyon, your expert guide shares tales of the determined souls who first ventured these waters in search of copper and gold over a century ago.
Expert Guides, Unmatched Safety
Our professional guides bring decades of combined experience to every expedition. Each undergoes rigorous Swiftwater rescue certification and wilderness first responder training, ensuring your adventure is as safe as it is memorable. With a maximum ratio of four guests per guide, you’ll receive personalized attention that larger tours simply can’t match.
Perfect for First-Time Adventurers
While the Rivers to Riches expedition traverses remote wilderness, the Class II-III rapids make this trip accessible to rafters of all experience levels. The journey begins right in McCarthy with easy river access, then builds gradually as you progress downstream, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of river life.
Ready to experience Alaska’s legendary rivers? Reserve your expedition dates now – call us at 907-302-0688 or click below to start planning your journey through America’s largest national park.
What makes this journey unique
- Exclusive small-group experience (maximum 10 guests)
- Expert guides with extensive safety certification
- Four distinct rivers in one extraordinary journey
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
- Historical river route through America’s largest national park
- Gourmet meals featuring Alaskan sourced ingredients
- Top-quality expedition gear including comfortable dry suits
- Perfect blend of adventure and accessibility
Your River Adventure Unfolds
Begin your journey in historic McCarthy, where Glacial waters of the Kennicott River spring from the base of the Kennicott Glacier. As you progress through the Nizina River Canyon, witness the dramatic confluence with the Chitina River, where prospectors once searched for fortune. Each day brings new wonders: grand sweeping vistas of the Wrangell and St. Elias ranges, including spectacular views of Mt. Blackburn and the Grand Parapet.
Wildlife Encounters Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife sightings along the shore:
- Black and grizzly bears foraging along riverbanks
- Bald and golden eagles soaring overhead
- Moose browsing in riverside gravel bars
- Peregrine falcons nesting in canyon walls
Our professional guides bring decades of combined experience to every expedition. Each undergoes:
- Swiftwater rescue certification
- Wilderness First Responder training (80-hour minimum)
- Extensive local knowledge testing
- Interpretive storytelling training
With a maximum ratio of four guests per guide, you’ll receive personalized attention that larger tours simply can’t match.
Make This Trip Your Own Whether you choose our 3-day or 4-day expedition, your journey can be tailored to your group’s interests and abilities. Custom launch dates are available throughout our season, and we’re happy to adjust daily activities to match your group’s pace and interests.
Want an even bigger adventure? Combine this trip with our Copper River expedition for an epic 9 or 10-day Source to Sea journey through Alaska’s epic wilderness.
Contact us to discuss custom launch dates and special requests.
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What We Provide Your adventure comes fully equipped with professional-grade gear and necessities:
- Professional guides with extensive safety certification
- Top-quality dry suits and safety equipment (PFDs, helmets, river shoes)
- All rafting equipment and group gear
- Backcountry Gourmet meals from lunch on day one through take-out
- Double-occupancy tent accommodations
- Group camping equipment (kitchen, shelter, river toilet)
- Emergency communication devices
- Expert interpretation of local history and ecology
*Private tent upgrade available upon request
What to Bring Adventure-ready essentials for your journey:
- Personal items from our detailed packing list
- Sturdy water bottle (essential for hydration)
- Pre/post trip accommodations in McCarthy
- Transportation to/from McCarthy
- Any necessary medications (plus 2-day backup supply)
- Adventurous spirit and positive attitude
- Guide gratuity (15-20% of trip cost recommended)
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3-Day Rivers to Riches Expedition Starting at $1,990 per person
- Launch dates available on demand
- Special departures: June 16, July 14, August 2 & August 23
- Can be combined with Copper Expedition for 9-day Source to Sea adventure
4-Day Rivers to Riches Expedition Starting at $2,225 per person
- Launch dates available on demand
- Special departures: June 15, July 13, August 1 & August 22
- Can be combined with Copper Expedition for 10-day Source to Sea adventure
All prices based on minimum 4 participants. Fully outfitted price includes all necessary gear and meals – no hidden fees.
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Departure Time
10am
From Our Gallery
Be our guest and see this tour for yourself
Raft 4 iconic Alaska rivers in one 3 - 4 day trip! Great for all experience levels.
3 Day River to Riches
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Day 0 - Welcome to McCarthy
Your adventure begins in historic McCarthy, where wilderness meets frontier charm. Arrive by 6pm to meet your expert guides at our main office for a comprehensive pre-trip orientation. We'll discuss the journey ahead, check gear, and answer any questions as anticipation builds for tomorrow's launch.
Day 1 - Launch Day: Kennicott & Nizina Rivers
Morning brings the excitement of launch day. After a safety briefing, experience the rush of Class III rapids on the glacier-fed Kennicott River, its waters rich with ancient glacial flour. Your skilled guides share stories of the copper rush era as you enter the dramatic Nizina Canyon, where towering walls frame the wild landscape. End your day with a gourmet riverside dinner at your first camp along the banks of the mighty Chitina River, as evening light paints the surrounding peaks in gold.
Day 2 - River Day: Wildlife & History
Wake to the sound of rushing water and birdsong. Today's journey takes you past the Tebay River confluence, a prime spot for observing grizzly bears fishing or foraging along the shoreline. Eagle-eye guides help spot wildlife while sharing tales of the area's rich history. Explore the fascinating Kuskulana Delta, where remnants of Alaska's mining era still tell their stories. Tonight's camp offers a perfect vantage point for your final evening under the vast Alaska sky, just shy of the legendary Copper River.
Day 3 - Final Day: Copper River Confluence
Your journey culminates as you merge onto the powerful Copper River, feeling the surge of two great waterways combining. These final miles offer time to reflect on your journey through some of Alaska's most pristine wilderness before arriving at our take-out point around noon.
4 Day River to Riches
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Day 0 - Welcome to McCarthy
Begin your expedition in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Arrive in McCarthy by 6pm for our essential pre-trip meeting at the main office, where you'll meet your guides and fellow adventurers while reviewing the exciting days ahead.
Day 1 - Launch Day: Rapids & Canyons
After a thorough safety orientation, dive into your adventure on the Kennicott River's exhilarating Class III rapids. Your guides' expertise shines as you navigate through the crystalline waters. The day's journey leads through the towering Nizina Canyon, where towering rock walls and milky turquoise waters tell geological stories spanning millennia. Make camp near the impressive confluence of the Nizina and Chitina Rivers, where the day's excitement gives way to a peaceful evening under the midnight sun.
Day 2 - River Day: Braided Waters
Navigate the intricate braided channels of the Chitina River, where your guides' route-finding skills showcase years of experience. Stop to replenish water supplies from pristine mountain streams, their crystal clarity a testament to this landscape's untouched nature. As evening approaches, settle into a spectacular campsite carefully chosen to capture the magnificent alpenglow on surrounding peaks.
Day 3 - Exploration Day: Wildlife & Discovery
Today brings opportunities for wildlife viewing near the Tebay River, a favorite spot for grizzlies and eagles. Explore the historic Kuskulana Delta, where your guides bring the area's gold rush history to life. Your final riverside camp positions you perfectly for tomorrow's grand finale on the Copper River.
Day 4 - Final Day: The Mighty Copper
Complete your journey by joining the legendary Copper River, whose powerful waters have shaped this landscape for millennia. These final miles offer time to reflect on your achievement before reaching the take-out point by noon, carrying with you memories of an authentic Alaska adventure.
Note: Itineraries may vary based on water levels, weather conditions, and group interests. Your expert guides will adapt the journey to maximize both safety and experience quality.