The Famous Turnagain Bore Tide!

A Bore Tide is anything but boring! South Central Alaska boasts the 2nd highest tide differential in North America, and for a few days each month, in the narrow passageway of the Turnagain Arm, we get an incredible, predictable wave that runs the length of the arm!

One of the amazing features of this wave that can be anywhere from 6 - 10 feet high, is that because it is part of the diurnal tidal pattern, it can be timed to the minute, twice a day, during certain days of the month. That means, if you are a kite boarder, a paddle boarder, or a surfer of any kind, you can know the exact moment that your wave is going to appear. And if you are skilled, or lucky, you can get a long ride on a wave going 10-15 mph for your efforts! All you need to do is track the cycle, looking for days with a minus low tide and a high tide of 27 feet or more! In fact, there are many websites that will track the bore tide for you.

When you see enthusiasts on the water, they are usually wearing dry suits as the water is quite cold, about 40F. On and extra active day for the tide, these sporty folks will be lined up across the arm all looking for a chance to catch their one big wave! Here is a link to help you discover the Bore tide for yourself, at least as a spectator! Come join the wave!

https://girdwood.com/bore-tide-schedule/