Alaskan Surfers Brave Freezing Bore Tides in Turnagain Arm
Alaskan surfers are riding the freezing bore tide waves of Turnagain Arm.
Anchorage, AK, November 7, 2026 — In a pursuit that tests the limits of human endurance and the sport of surfing, individuals are braving the frigid waters of Alaska’s Turnagain Arm to ride its powerful bore tide waves. This natural phenomenon, driven by the immense tidal changes in the region, transforms the relatively calm waters into a formidable surfable wave.
Turnagain Arm, a glacial fjord located south of Anchorage, experiences one of the largest tidal ranges in the United States. The incoming tide, squeezed by the narrowing confines of the arm, creates a tidal bore, a wave or series of waves that travels upriver against the current. These bores can vary in size and intensity, presenting a unique challenge to those who venture out to surf them.
Surfing in this environment is far from typical. The water temperatures in Turnagain Arm are consistently cold, necessitating specialized equipment such as thick wetsuits, boots, gloves, and hoods to protect surfers from hypothermia. The unpredictability of the bore tide, combined with the extreme cold and the remote nature of the location, adds significant risk to the endeavor. Details regarding specific surfers, the frequency of these surfing attempts, or any organized groups involved were not provided.
The bore tide in Turnagain Arm is a recurring event, influenced by the lunar cycle and atmospheric conditions, which can affect its size and timing. While the exact conditions for optimal surfing vary, the opportunity to ride such a powerful natural wave in an extreme environment continues to draw a dedicated group of enthusiasts. The contractor’s name, permits, or specific inspection outcomes related to any surfing activities in Turnagain Arm were not available.
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