WASILLA CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Paddle the Seven Mile Canoe Trail through the Mat Su Valley — lakes, creeks and mountain vistas
A three-hour guided paddle that threads lakes and a creek tunnel between Cottonwood Lake and Mud Lake, offering close-up views of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains and frequent wildlife sightings.
Paddle the Seven Mile Canoe Trail through the Mat Su Valley — lakes, creeks and mountain vistas.
The Seven Mile Canoe Trail courses through the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, a winding three-hour route that links Cottonwood Lake to Mud Lake via a creek tunnel and quiet waterways. Expect broad mountain views across each open water and the possibility of encountering moose, ducks and fish as you move through a landscape defined by the Chugach and Talkeetna ranges.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A three‑hour circuit of lakes, creek and a tunnel
The guided trip covers roughly three hours of paddling that takes you from Cottonwood Lake through a creek tunnel into Mud Lake and back, combining open-water stretches with narrow creek passages.
Framing peaks: Chugach and Talkeetna views
Throughout the paddle you’ll find repeated viewpoints of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains, which form a constant backdrop to the lakes and stream corridors of the Mat Su Valley.
Frequent wildlife — moose, ducks and fish
Wildlife encounters are common along the trail: paddlers often see moose at the water’s edge, flocks of ducks on the lakes and fish in shallower areas.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
The trip moves at a paddle’s rhythm: launches from Cottonwood Lake, a steady crossing to the creek, a brief constriction through a tunnel that opens into Mud Lake, then a relaxed return up the creek to the trailhead. The mix of open-water glides and tighter creek navigation keeps the pace varied across the three-hour outing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Quick-drying clothing, shoes that can get wet and muddy, layers such as a fleece or rain jacket, and a hat with a cord or beanie. Weather can change quickly; layered clothing is recommended.
Kayak or SUP, paddle, life jacket, waterproof phone case, snacks and a tour guide are included in the outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the cost to float the canoe trail?
Adult price is $200 per person with a minimum of two people or cash equivalent. Youth (6–17) are $175 per person and must be accompanied by an adult. Children 0–5 are free as lap riders but you must call to book.
What does each person need to bring?
Participants should bring quick-drying clothes, shoes that can get wet and muddy, layers such as a fleece or rain jacket, and a hat with a cord or beanie; weather in Alaska can change quickly so layers are recommended.
Is there a shuttle service?
A shuttle service is available upon request; the round trip to and from Anchorage is $175 per group.
Can children join the trip?
Youth aged 6–17 may join but must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 0–5 can ride as lap riders at no charge but you must call to book that arrangement.
What equipment is included on the trip?
The operator provides a kayak or SUP, paddle, life jacket, waterproof phone case, snacks and a tour guide as part of the trip package.