Lake Clark

Lake Clark is the place we call home, and the lake we get to share with you aboard Odyssey. There are mountains rising from the shore, wooded bays, islands and river mouths, with plenty of places to stop and spend some time.

The view changes as you travel. A shoreline you saw from the airplane looks different from the water, and different again when you step ashore. With comfortable cabins aboard, overnight guests can settle in while we take our time looking around.

Snow-covered mountains and a wooded shoreline beside Lake Clark
A view from the water on Lake Clark.

Getting to know the lake

Most of our trips begin in Port Alsworth. From there, places around the lake include Tommy Island, Current Creek, Kijik and Chulitna Bay. Each gives you a different look at the lake, from open water and mountain views to quieter stretches of shoreline.

Toward the head of the lake are islands, river mouths and the entrance to Little Lake Clark. With its steep cliffs and waterfalls, it’s our favorite place to take guests, and we try to bring every overnight group there when time and conditions allow. Odyssey stays outside the shallow entrance, and we take the dinghy into Little Lake Clark. It’s too far for an outing by kayak or paddleboard.

These are places to get to know as you plan, rather than a list of stops on every trip. We’ll work out a route with you and adjust it as the weather and your interests lead us.

Two islands near the head of Lake Clark
Two of the islands near the head of Lake Clark.

Time on the water and ashore

Some of the best parts of a visit happen when we stop for a while. Depending on the place and conditions, there may be time for a shore walk, fishing, or a paddle along the edge of a bay. The dinghy, paddleboards and kayaks let us explore places Odyssey cannot go.

Keep an eye on the shore as we travel. Wildlife is part of life here, but sightings happen on the animals’ terms. You can read more about wildlife around the lake and how it fits into a sailing trip.

You can be as interested in the sailing as you like, or simply enjoy the view and settle into being out here. There is no need to fill every hour.

A sail for the day, or a few days aboard

A six-hour day or evening sail is a good way to get out on Lake Clark if you are already visiting Port Alsworth. It gives you a different view of the area and time aboard Odyssey before returning to the village.

An overnight stay gives us more time to explore farther around the lake. Instead of heading back each day, you have your cabin, meals and crew with you. There is room to spend longer somewhere you enjoy and to let the trip unfold over a few days.

Our sample itineraries give you an idea of how different trips can fit together. For current rates, the season and what is included, see Plan Your Stay.

Looking south from the head of Lake Clark
Looking south from the head of Lake Clark.

A place people call home

For Alison and me, this is home as well as the place we welcome guests. The lake connects communities, homes and places where people work and spend time with their families.

Some shorelines are privately owned, so going ashore takes a little more thought than choosing a nice-looking beach. We respect the people who live here and the places that matter to them.

Read a little more about the people and culture around Lake Clark, or browse our photos and films for more views of life here.

Come spend some time on the lake

Tell us how much time you have and what you would enjoy doing. We’ll help you work out a visit that fits, whether that means a day on the water or making Odyssey your home for a little longer.