Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.
Rapid AK

Turnback Canyon--End

American Whitewater 59.7252, -137.9406

Save this feature with the run it belongs to.

No live gauge linked. This feature record has no verified USGS or CDEC source for current flow. Use the parent run and local sources before making a trip decision.
Photo
Turnback Canyon--End
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description
Turnback Canyon is an unrunnable section of the Alsek River that requires a mandatory portage, characterized by extreme gradient and massive hydraulics that have defeated even expert paddlers. The canyon's narrow walls, extreme turbulence, and potential for fatal pinning make it one of the most dangerous stretches of whitewater in North America, with most expedition parties choosing to completely bypass this section via a challenging overland route.
Location
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class N/A
Mile Marker
99.6 mi
Directions
View Full Run
Haines Junction to Dry Bay
Alsek
III+(V+) 170.0 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater