Alpacka Rafts!

[Fireman78]

Check these out guys! www.alpackaraft.com also www.packraftnewmexico.com

[mountainpete]

Wow! Those things pack small!

Have you seen one in person? What is the material like?

Pete

[Fireman78]

I have had one for about six months or so, I have the "Yukon Yak" model, which is the second from the smallest size. I have rafted class three rivers and paddled alpine lakes in this thing. I love it! It's about 4 pounds and I take it everywhere, even when I fly. Oh ya, it's a lightweight urethane coated nylon that is thin but very durable. It is not like the kind you get at any local "sporting goods" place. I have yet to get a tear/hole or any problems.

[Nullifier]

I likw the names like Denali Llama LOL!

[kellymoe]

Those boats are very cool. I have been looking for the "perfect" boat to do the Zion Narrows with. This might be the one. Thanks.

[toyrunner95]

how do you inflate it? it looks rather tight when inflated and i dont think a person can do it by lung power.

[Fireman78]

These boats are designed to be very lightweight and compact. The inflation is done via an "Inflation Bag", basically a bag about the size of a pillow case with a PVC valve on one corner, and the other end is open. You connect the valve, then "gather" air and close the open end and squeeze the air in. I can inflate mine in under two minutes. There is a small mouth valve to "top it off" with, also , after you put in in cold water, it loses some pressure, so then you can add a little more via the mouth valve. The "Inflation bag" weighs almost nothing. Very cool. I wish I had one of these twenty years ago.

[etbadger]

Yukon Yak size. With a bit of squeezing both Amy and I can fit in it, and have crossed lakes a mile or more across that way. Packs down to about the size of a 3 person tent with the inflation bag.

-e

[kellymoe]

Fireman78,

Dont you know you cant say fireman anymore It's firefighter. I'm a fireman for LA City. Good to see other firemen on the board.

These Alpakarafts have already got me planning trips for the Spring. I have been a avid kayaker for years and have done a few expedition type trips down rivers but I am getting older now and like to travel in a little more comfort. These rafts are just the ticket. I am already planning a trips down the Dirty Devil, Muddy River and Escalante river with this raft in mind. Some of these rivers have long take out hikes and I would rather carry a 5lb raft than a 40lb kayak with gear. Thanks for turning me on to these boats.

[Fireman78]

I have been going to Utah every year for about twenty years. This spring will be my first with my Alpacka and I can't wait.