The Inside Passage is one of North America’s classic sea kayaking routes, a network of sheltered channels, islands, and fjords running from the Pacific Northwest through British Columbia to southeast Alaska. A full traverse is a major expedition, but the region also suits shorter trips and guided tours. This guide covers route planning, hazards, wildlife, and logistics.
What the Inside Passage is
The Inside Passage refers to the protected coastal waterways behind thousands of islands along the northwest coast. Descriptions of the full kayak route commonly run from near Washington State, such as Bellingham or Anacortes, through British Columbia to destinations in Alaska such as Ketchikan, Juneau, or Skagway. Distances are often cited as roughly 1,200 to 1,300 miles, though the exact figure depends on the route you choose.
Full route or sections
A full self-supported traverse is often described as taking about two to three months, which means long time off, serious resupply planning, and strong sea kayaking skills. Many paddlers choose a section instead:
- Southern sections in Washington and the Gulf and San Juan Islands, which are more accessible and busier.
- British Columbia coastlines, with remote inlets and strong tidal currents.
- Southeast Alaska, including trips out of Juneau, Petersburg, or Ketchikan.
Guided week-long trips exist for those who want the scenery without the logistics. One example starts from Juneau and paddles north along the base of the coastal mountains, watching for humpback whales and other wildlife.
Route planning
Direction. South to north is commonly recommended, partly for seasonal weather and partly because it lets you test gear and routines in busier, more populated waters before reaching remote areas.
Season. Summer is the typical paddling season, but weather in this region can be wet, windy, and unpredictable even then. Check local sources for conditions.
Resupply. Small towns and communities serve as resupply points, such as Port Hardy, Prince Rupert, Ketchikan, Wrangell and Petersburg, but gaps between them can be long. Plan food and fuel carefully, and confirm what services are available in each place.
Daily distances. Averages are often cited at roughly 15 to 20 miles per day when weather and rest days are included, but your own pace and conditions will vary.
Tides, weather, and crossings
The route is mostly sheltered from open-ocean swell, but that does not make it easy. Hazards include:
- Tidal currents and rapids in narrow channels, such as those near Campbell River.
- Wind and open crossings between islands or across wide channels.
- Fog and rain, which affect visibility and morale.
- Cold water, which makes capsizing dangerous.
- Boat traffic, including ferries, fishing boats, and cruise ships.
Carry tide and current tables and charts, plan crossings for favorable conditions, and have a rescue plan. A marine VHF radio and a satellite messenger or locator beacon are commonly recommended for communication.
Wildlife and bear safety
Paddlers may see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, bald eagles, and black or grizzly bears. Keep a respectful distance from marine mammals and follow local guidance on approach distances. For bears, camp on beaches with good visibility where possible, store food and scented items away from your tent using bear-resistant containers or other approved methods, cook away from sleeping areas, and consider carrying bear spray. Follow the specific guidance of the land managers where you camp.
Permits, borders, and regulations
A trip through British Columbia into Alaska crosses an international border, so check customs and immigration requirements for both countries well in advance. Some protected areas, such as Glacier Bay National Park, have permit rules for private boaters. Camping rules vary between national forest, provincial parks, and other lands. Check with the relevant agencies for current rules.
Guided trips
Guides provide local knowledge, group safety systems, and food and camping logistics, which can be valuable in a place with strong tides and bears. Compare trip length, group size, what gear is provided, and the level of experience required. If you are interested in shorter breaks, see our ideas for kayaking weekend getaways, or look at the best states for kayaking to compare Alaska with Washington.
Gear and skills
Our kayaking gear checklist covers the basics, and the multi-day paddling trip planning guide covers food and camp logistics. Expect to need a seaworthy sea kayak, drysuit or appropriate cold-water clothing, spray skirt, pump, paddle float, a spare paddle, navigation tools, and camping and bear-safety gear. Skills should include self and assisted rescues (see kayak capsizing), reading tides and weather, and navigation. Practice in conditions you can handle before heading north.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to kayak the Inside Passage? A full traverse is commonly described as taking roughly two to three months, while sections can take a week or two.
Do I need to be an expert? For an independent expedition, strong sea kayaking skills are essential. A guided trip is a more accessible way to experience the area.
Where else can I find big-scenery paddling? Our overview of places to go kayaking covers other regions, and kayaking the Yukon River is a remote river alternative.