Alagnak Wild River

Alagnak Wild River is the upper 69 miles of the Alagnak River on the Alaska Peninsula, flowing from Kukaklek Lake beside Katmai National Park and Preserve. It was added to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System in 1980.[1]

Description

The designated reach runs 69 miles from Kukaklek Lake and lies adjacent to Katmai National Park and Preserve on the Alaska Peninsula.[1]

Fish and wildlife

The river provides critical habitat for many Pacific salmon species, and residents still use salmon for subsistence. It also supports brown bears, caribou, moose, beavers, foxes and birds.[1]

Recreation

Visitors come for sport fishing, including fly-in fishing, and for rafting, with lazy floats on the braided river and Class III rapids in some sections. Primitive camping and sport hunting and trapping also occur. Much of the river corridor is private land, so visitors need landowner permission before entering. A baseline water quality and inventory study was completed in 2001 and research continues.[1]

FAQs

How long is the Alagnak Wild River? The designated upper reach is 69 miles.

When was it designated? 1980.

Is the land public? Much of the corridor is private, so permission is needed.

Sources

1. National Park Service: Alagnak Wild River: A Lifeline Through Tundra

Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 13, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue