The Upper Kenai River is a very popular rafting destination for private boaters and guided raft trip participants. Within the available 17 river miles between Kenai and Skilak Lakes, mainly class 2 and some class 3. This section of the river requires some planning: once at Skilak Lake, rafters must either boat the seven miles to a take out point at Upper Skilak Lake Campground, or deflate their rafts and pack them up the Hidden Creek Trail to the Skilak Lake Loop Road, a distance of 2 miles, uphill. Rafters should always wear their personal floatation devices on this river due to the fast and cold waters.

The Six Mile Creek is one of the most challenging rafting rivers on The Kenai, the excitement and thrill of running this river with an expert is an experience unlike others on The Kenai. Towering rocky cliffs looming over the huge waves provide a stunning setting for this thrilling run. Mainly class 4 or 5 sections, it should only be attempted by experienced rafters or with a reputable company.