Exploring Cedar Bay, Alaska - by Kayak

Epic Alaska kayaking. Glassy calm water, temperate rainforest, and snow capped peaks coming right down to the water. Wow.

I wanted to show people just how good kayaking can be in some of these secret little bays and inlets in this part of Alaska. After a morning of exploring a glacier, I took them to a place called Cedar Bay, in the northern part of Prince William Sound. It is called 'Cedar Bay' because it is the northern and western-most place you can find Alaskan Yellow Cedar trees.

One of my favorite parts of kayaking here, is that the big boat anchors in the outer bay, then you kayak through a shallow narrow part and enter a massive back bay, that you would never even know was there. There are waterfalls cascading down from snow capped mountains, a salmon stream, and little nooks and crannies to explore. The light colored granite rock and calm waters make the scene almost tropical when you look down. And it can be a great place for birds like bald eagles and mergansers.

My small group of kayakers covered four miles as we explored beautiful Cedar Bay. The rains came and went throughout the paddle. It was a magical Alaskan experience, and hopefully one that they will take home and treasure long after the trip is over.

Kayaking in Alaska never gets old.

You know its going to be a good day for a kayak when you can see your reflection in the water like a mirror.

We found calm, clear water as we paddled into the scenic back bay of Cedar Bay.

You always have to be prepared for a little rain when out on adventure in coastal Alaska.

We found all kinds of sea birds on our kayak. Here we had a small flock of lesser scaups, so we slowed down for a few photos.

I love the snow capped backdrop here in Cedar Bay.

When you come kayaking with me, you should expect some hard charger opportunities along the way.

We paddled past this cliff as we came through the narrows, entering the secretive back bay of Cedar Bay.

A pair of eagles drew us over to this shoreline and we found a surprise waterfall. You can tell the fresh water is floating on top of the salt water here.

This is how far up I could make it into the waterfall.

Here we are, just getting started. The Safari Explorer can be seen behind us, anchored in the outer bay.

We paddled around islands, rocks, waterfalls, and salmon streams.

This eagle was drying its wings after a little rainstorm.

Beauty is everywhere you look here in this part of Alaska.

As always, keep traveling and keep posting.

• Dai Mar