Uploaded July 2019 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Packrafting is an Alaska-born sport that's picked up popularity in the past ten years. Because of their ability to be folded into the size of a small sleeping bag, packrafts have become a favorite #adventure tool among backpackers looking to extend hiking trips, and thrill-seekers looking to conquer #whitewater rapids. Luc Mehl has been packrafting around Alaska for the past 15 years. His adventures have taken him into the Alaska Range, the Brooks Range, and the Wrangells. When he's not in his #packraft, he trains others in swiftwater rescue and packrafting.
For more on Luc and the safety courses he offers, visit his website here: thingstolucat.com
Footage recorded during Packraft-specific Swiftwater Rescue Course Hosted by Traverse Alaska: traversealaska.com
Video and story by Joey Mendolia
With video from Luc Mehl, Mike Curiak, David Manzer and Mark Oates
Music from FirstCom Music
INDIE ALASKA is an original video series produced by Alaska Public Media in partnership with PBS Digital Studios. The videos capture the diverse and colorful lifestyles of everyday Alaskans at work and at play. Together, these stories present a fresh and authentic look at living in Alaska.
Click on the Subscribe button above to get notified when new episodes are available.
Consider supporting Alaska Public Media and ensure storytelling like INDIE ALASKA continues into the future. Make a donation today at: alaskapublic.org/support/donate-splash-page
All INDIE ALASKA episodes can be found at: alaskapublic.org/category/programs/indie-alaska
Packrafting is an Alaska-born sport that's picked up popularity in the past ten years. Because of their ability to be folded into the size of a small sleeping bag, packrafts have become a favorite #adventure tool among backpackers looking to extend hiking trips, and thrill-seekers looking to conquer #whitewater rapids. Luc Mehl has been packrafting around Alaska for the past 15 years. His adventures have taken him into the Alaska Range, the Brooks Range, and the Wrangells. When he's not in his #packraft, he trains others in swiftwater rescue and packrafting.
For more on Luc and the safety courses he offers, visit his website here: thingstolucat.com
Footage recorded during Packraft-specific Swiftwater Rescue Course Hosted by Traverse Alaska: traversealaska.com
Video and story by Joey Mendolia
With video from Luc Mehl, Mike Curiak, David Manzer and Mark Oates
Music from FirstCom Music
INDIE ALASKA is an original video series produced by Alaska Public Media in partnership with PBS Digital Studios. The videos capture the diverse and colorful lifestyles of everyday Alaskans at work and at play. Together, these stories present a fresh and authentic look at living in Alaska.
Click on the Subscribe button above to get notified when new episodes are available.
Consider supporting Alaska Public Media and ensure storytelling like INDIE ALASKA continues into the future. Make a donation today at: alaskapublic.org/support/donate-splash-page
All INDIE ALASKA episodes can be found at: alaskapublic.org/category/programs/indie-alaska
