Swan Lake/Swanson River Canoe Trail System is composed of lakes, rivers and portages in the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The myriad of sparkling lakes within the Swan Lake system attracts canoeists of all interests and abilities and offers a choice of several canoe routes of varying challenge levels, rewarding fishing opportunities, peace and relaxation. The Swanson River Canoe trail is most commonly paddled from the put-in access at the end of the Swanson River Road downstream to the take-out at Captain Cook Recreation Area, a paddle of about 22 miles. Several small rapids and riffles add a challenging element to this canoe trip, but it is considered moderately easy for those with basic canoeing skills. Fishing and wildlife viewing is the highlight of a trip down Swanson River.