Adventures by True North AK — Local services in Alaska

I recently had the opportunity to join Heather and Derek on a kayaking tour in the beautiful Mat-Su Valley of Alaska, and it was an adventurous experience to say the least. They guided us through the "bayou of Alaska" and ended the tour on the Knik River.

We were fortunate to have sunny weather during the tour, allowing us to capture some cool photos of the scenic surroundings including Pioneer Peak and Knik Glacier. We also saw some loons, swans, a moose, and even another kayaker enjoying the same waters.

They provided a well-timed 20-minute stop for snacks and a restroom break. This break allowed us to refuel and recharge before continuing our kayaking journey.

This trip is definitely not for beginners. The strong headwind and choppy waters in a few places require a degree a comfort on the water. Although the end of the trip on the Knik River was glacially-fed, most of the trip had shallow waters.

One crucial aspect to consider when joining this tour is dressing appropriately for the weather. Alaska's climate can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to wear layers. I would recommend bringing a hoodie/fleece, a down jacket, and a raincoat to stay warm and dry throughout the excursion. A baseball cap and sunglasses were great to have. I should've worn leggings, but live and learn. And I'm happy I had my rain boots to avoid walking in the chilly waters when we had to walk for about 20 minutes around the windy, very shallow areas near the sand dunes.

You will get wet. Have spare clothes in the car. Bring a water bottle and snacks to recharge after the trip.

Overall, quite the Alaskan adventure for a sunny...

We love this company!! Last weekend we met up with the owners, Heather and Derek VanKampen, for a snowshoeing tour at Hatcher Pass with my family. Heather and Derek are both very kind, helpful, and love the outdoors. I love how family friendly they are. We were met with a warm greeting, Derek helped me put on my snowshoes. They had lots of different sizes, from a small child size all the way up to my husbands size, he is 6'4". The snow shoes themselves are great quality. I have used snow shoes before and these are definitely my favorite! They are a little more narrow so I I can walk like normal verses having to walk outwardly because previous snowshoes I've used were too wide. We easily found the right sizes for each of us and matching snowshoeing/highking poles were included. They also offer a nice sled with a harness to rent which can be used for sledding or hauling little kiddo's if they get tired. I thought that was very thoughtful. The views of the snow covered mountains during our tour were breathtaking! We absolutely LOVE Hatchers Pass! Derek and Heather made it super easy for my husband and I, and our two boys, ages 8 & 10, to have a fun family outing. We will for sure be renting and touring with them again! Heather mentioned a ladies tour through Independence Mine at Hatcher Pass coming up soon which I will definitely be signing up for. I look forward to renting and touring...

Adventures by True North is where to go for your water sport needs! I went on their Knik River half day trip and it was perfect...other than I wish I'd had a FULL day out there. Instructions from the beginning were great. You meet your guide and drop off your vehicle where you'll finish your trip. From there, it's a short drive to the put in. All the gear you need is provided, as are snacks and warm and/or cold drinks. You start off in an idyllic snowmelt lake, wind your way through a salmon-filled creek, and end up connecting with the glacially-made Knik River. Derek, our guide that day, was very knowledgeable in regard to paddling, as well as the region. And he took pictures for us throughout the trip! An optional polar plunge at the end was a perfect way to finish the day. And you're just a mere walk from your car! If that doesn't sound like your kind of trip, they also have other options, as well as rentals, AND I've heard they've started teaming up with a local helicopter company to offer glacial pool paddleboarding!! I will definitely be...