The Call of the Wild: A Glacial Adventure Begins

The thrill of the unknown is what drives us, isn’t it? The promise of an adventure that will leave us breathless and yearning for more. That’s exactly what I felt as I embarked on the Kennicott Glacial Lake & River Raft experience in McCarthy, Alaska. The journey began with a bit of a hiccup, a miscommunication that left us waiting at the shuttle turnaround near the Wrangell visitor center. But as any seasoned adventurer knows, the best stories often start with a twist.

Cesar, our guide, arrived an hour late, but his warm apology and infectious enthusiasm quickly set the tone for the day. With over a decade of experience, Cesar exuded confidence and expertise, making us feel secure as we prepared for the icy waters ahead. We donned our dry suits, life vests, and helmets, ready to face the glacial lake’s challenges. The anticipation was electric, the kind that only comes when you’re about to step into the wild.

Icebergs, Eagles, and Exhilaration

The first leg of our journey took us paddling across the glacial lake, a surreal landscape of floating icebergs and the distant rumble of the glacier. The air was crisp, the water a mesmerizing shade of blue, and the icebergs, covered in rock debris, were like ancient sentinels guarding the secrets of the past. We stopped to walk on one of these floating giants, feeling the crunch of ice beneath our feet and marveling at the glacier’s relentless advance.

Lunch was a quick affair on another piece of floating ice, a moment of calm before the rapids. Veronica, our rescue kayaker, joined us, her presence a reassuring reminder of the safety measures in place. As we navigated the rapids, the icy water splashed against our faces, a refreshing jolt that heightened the senses. The thrill of the ride was matched only by the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings, a reminder of nature’s raw power and majesty.

A Journey’s End with Nature’s Spectacle

As the adventure drew to a close, we were treated to a spectacle that only Alaska could offer. A bald eagle took flight from the shoreline, its wings cutting through the air with grace and power. It was a moment that seemed to encapsulate the spirit of the day, a symbol of freedom and the untamed wilderness.

The ride back to base camp was no less eventful. A black bear ambled across the road, a fitting end to a day filled with nature’s wonders. Veronica shared her story, her passion for guiding in Alaska evident in every word. It was clear that this wasn’t just a job for her or Cesar; it was a calling, a way to connect with the land and share its beauty with others.

Reflecting on the day’s adventure, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. The Kennicott Glacial Lake & River Raft was more than just a thrill ride; it was a journey into the heart of the wild, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature. And as always, it left me hungry for the next adventure, the next story waiting to be told.