Update July 15, 2018: The upper section is no longer "yukky" but better described as "yummy" especially if in a modern Alpacka, like the Gnarwhale. There are several Class IV drops, but it's certainly not "yukky", especially if you like Class IV.

There's a 15 mile beautiful walk in to Goat Lake. Camp there, walk to the confluence with Honolulu, put camp in the zipper, and head down if water is clear and maybe in the 250 cfs range below the confluence. There is still a nasty drop that even now, we all portaged, although we hear the kayaker's run it. It's the "Upper Sand Bag Falls" described in the "Honolulu Hoop" description and shown in the photo with Brad portaging high above it emptying into a pool.


Waikiki * * * *
20 miles 1 day
Moderate Expense
N. Talkeetna Mountains Hike
ATV trail; alpine scree; mostly tundra
2,940 foot gain
10 mile walk
Honolulu Creek paddle
PR 4(5)
Low volume –100 feet/mile
10 mile paddle

Introduction

The “Waikiki” section of Honolulu Creek is a Ship Creek for Talkeetna. An incredible, scenic walk-in, followed by super-fun (at low water), technical packrafting makes this an Alaskan classic. Honolulu Creek has been called the best Class IV kayak run in the State of Alaska. For packrafters who have mastered low water runs of Ship Creek and Willow Creek’s Guard-rail, this backcountry alternative to Honolulu Hoop cherry picks the best of Honolulu Creek, its lower two canyons. An ATV trail from the Hurricane Canyon Bridge leads to high country hiking with wonderful views. The hiking is easy and enjoyable with no brush and dry feet. While this trip could be done as a camping trip, the low water that’s best for packrafting will necessitate a super-light load.

Waypoints (NAD 27)

Waypoint 010
Little Honolulu Pass
60.01357
149.45705

Waypoint 011
Edge of plateau
63.01616
149.38173

Waypoint 009
Viewpoint into creek
63.02130
149.33865

Waypoint 008
1st meadow
63.02130
149.33865

Waypoint 007
2nd meadow
63.02295
149.33396

Waypoint 006
3rd meadow
63.02374
149.33340

unmapped waypoints
meadows en route
63.02486
149.33482

63.02759
149.33263

63.02690
149.33296

Waypoint 005
Put-in
63.02811
149.33211

Waypoint 004
“Cave Rocks Drop” PR 4
63.02926
149.34432


Waypoint 012
“California Ledge” PR 5
63.03606
149.36962

Waypoint 013
“Slideways” PR 5
63.05850
149.39700

Waypoint 014
“Monkey’s Garden” PR 4
63.06511
149.42608