Alaska’s rafting tours: from the relaxing to the white-knuckling

Handmade log rafts were once used to look for gold, hunt or migrate, but today’s sleek vinyl boats offer adventurers and novices an up-close view of wildlife and topography.

Whitewater rafting features calm water followed by roller coaster rides, while scenic floats offer a laidback glide:

• Take a lazy three-hour float down Wil­low Creek and view the stunning backcountry scenery.

• Join Alas­ka Wild­land Adven­tures for a relaxed two-hour ride on the Kenai River or a seven-hour adven­ture with Class II + rapids.

• Under two hours from Anchorage, paddle the Lion’s Head rapids and hang on as your guide takes charge.

– Eve Lederman, The 100 Companies