PALMER GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Jim Lake Discover Kayaking: Learn Kayak and SUP beneath the Chugach
A two-hour, beginner-friendly kayaking and stand-up paddleboard class on Jim Lake that provides instruction, essential gear, and on-water practice.
Jim Lake Discover Kayaking: Learn Kayak and SUP beneath the Chugach.
On Jim Lake, with the Chugach Mountains rising around you, this easy-to-participate, two-hour class teaches the fundamentals of kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding — expert guidance, provided gear, and time on calm water for practice make it ideal for first-timers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Jim Lake under the Chugach
Paddlers launch on Jim Lake framed by the Chugach Mountains, a calm setting suited to learning and low-stress exploration.
Beginner-focused instruction
This two-hour session is designed for those with little to no paddlecraft experience, delivering step-by-step coaching so you can gain confidence on a kayak or SUP.
All the basics provided
The class supplies a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, paddle, life jacket, waterproof phone case and a snack, so participants can focus on learning and paddling.
What the day feels like
What it feels like on the water
The session combines short, focused instruction with guided on-water time: you learn paddlecraft basics, get fitted with gear, and then put skills into practice as the group floats and paddles around the lake and creek.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this class suits — and who should check elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The class runs for two hours.
Bring non-cotton base layers, quick-drying shirt and pants, a fleece, rain/wind outer layers, a hat with a drawstring or beanie, and shoes that can get wet and dry quickly; flip-flops are discouraged.
Provided items include a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, life jacket, paddle, waterproof phone case, and a snack, plus a tour guide.
Online reservations must be made by 5 PM the day before the tour; for next-day or same-day bookings, contact the operator for availability. A shuttle to and from Anchorage is available upon request for $175 per group (round trip).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Jim Lake Discover Kayaking class?
The class duration is two hours.
What does the price cover and what are the rates?
Adult rate is $100 per person; youth (ages 6–17) rate is $75 per person. Per paying adult, one child aged 5 or younger may participate as a free lap rider if arranged in advance.
What equipment and provisions are provided?
The trip includes a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, life jacket, paddle, waterproof phone case, and a snack; a tour guide leads the session.
Do I need previous paddling experience?
No — the class is designed for participants with little to no paddlecraft experience and is described as easy to participate in.
When do I need to reserve my spot?
Online reservations must be completed by 5 PM the day before the tour; for next-day or same-day bookings, contact the operator directly for availability.
Is transportation available from Anchorage?
A shuttle service to and from Anchorage is available upon request for $175 per group (round trip).