Kayak or Canoe Savonoski Loop, Katmai National Park, Alaska

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The Savonoski Loop is an 80 mile paddle through the scenic backcountry of Katmai National Park. Paddlers need intermediate canoeing or kayaking skills, and experience traveling in wilderness and in bear country. Depending on the route, experience, and weather, allow a minimum of 4-10 days for the trip. The Savonoski Loop starts and ends at Brooks Camp. After leaving Brooks Camp, the route heads northwest before turning east around the base of Mt. La Gorce and into the spectacular Bay of Islands in the North Arm of Naknek Lake. Paddlers should allow 2-3 days to travel the 20 miles from Brooks Camp to Fure’s Cabin in the Bay of Islands. At Fure’s Cabin, a 1.5 mile (2 km) portage trail connects Naknek and Grosvenor lakes. The unmarked, but maintained portage trail begins behind the outhouse at Fure’s Cabin. On the trail, be prepared to encounter mud and numerous biting insects. After completing the portage trail, paddlers travel east and southeast for approximately 14 miles to the outlet of Lake Grosvenor. To best avoid the frequently strong south and east winds known as “williwaws,” paddlers are advised to travel along the south shore of Lake Grosvenor. Be prepared to pull to shore and wait out high winds anywhere on the route. The Grosvenor River begins at the east end of Lake Grosvenor. It is a Class I or slow moving, clear water stream about 3 miles long. The Savonoski River is a braided Class I-II (waves up to three feet) river with a swift current. It can be easily run in one day. Whitewater does not usually occur along the Savonoski River, but there are numerous obstacles to avoid, such as sandbars and fallen trees. The depth of the water is often impossible to estimate due to suspended glacial sediments. Follow the main channel to avoid running aground. From the mouth of the Savonoski River in the Iliuk Arm of Naknek Lake, it is approximately 20 miles back to Brooks Camp. Due to steep cliffs along the base of Mount La Gorce, paddlers are advised to use the south shore of Iliuk Arm on Naknek Lake, which offers some limited shelter from severe winds when returning to Brooks Camp. Depending on your route, mileages will vary from those stated in this brochure. Paddling along shorelines is always recommended due to frequent high winds. Equipment rentals, outfitters, and guides may be available locally. Contact the King Salmon Visitor Center at (907)246-4250 for more information.

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