Skilak Lake Wilderness Tours

Skilak Lake stands as the crown jewel of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, naturally dividing the middle and upper reaches of the Kenai River. It is encircled by the Kenai Mountains to the east, the formidable Alaska Ranges to the west, the Tustamena Bench to the south, and dense boreal forests to the north. Rich in history, its rugged shores once welcomed early homesteaders, and its southwestern edge is graced by the notable Caribou Island. The enduring saga of its relentless waters and dramatic landscape is vividly captured in Ada White Sharples’ now out-of-print novel, Two Against the North, as well as in other works like Bonnie Rose Ward’s The Winds of Skilak.

Begin your adventure at either the lower Skilak Lake boat launch or Bings Landing State Park in Sterling. Step aboard our custom river sleds and let the exploration begin. Depending on the weather—and most importantly, the wind—the goal is to circumnavigate the entire lake while visiting key landmarks such as Caribou Island, the stunning Skilak Lake Glacier, Doroshin Bay, and the Upper Kenai River Inlet.

Skilak Lake is a treasure trove of natural beauty, featuring unique bays, inlets, rocky cliffs, and small islands. Wildlife abounds, with bald eagles soaring overhead, loons and various ducks gracing the waters, and the surrounding wilderness home to black and brown bears, moose, wolves, coyotes, otters, and even seals.

Enhance your adventure with our optional shore lunch. Along the way, we can pause at several scenic vistas, allowing you to savor a freshly prepared meal while soaking in a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that you will not soon forget.