It is highly recommended that at high water level, open canoes and small rafts be portaged. At Canyon Rapids, a one-mile hiking trail takes you to Canyon Lake and is a good opportunity to stretch your legs. After these rapids there is a 17 mile stretch of Class I water to Sourdough Creek Campground. The Gulkana River is not a place for a novice boater. Solo travel is not recommended, always travel with at least two boats in your group.
Accidents can occur in seconds and emergency assistance can take many hours.
If you lack experience, proper equipment or knowledge of the river, you should engage a licensed guide or outfitter. Capsizing, sinking, and falling overboard from small boats account for 70 percent of boating fatalities. Be alert for approaching hazards such as boulders, jagged rocks, large holes and fallen trees. Scout rapids before passing through. Be alert for overhanging trees called sweepers.