Riverboat Discovery

Climb on board an authentic Alaskan sternwheeler, the Riverboat Discovery, and take a journey back in time along the Chena and Tanana Rivers. Since 1950, the Binkley family has operated riverboat tours in Fairbanks; now you can cruise out into nature with third- and fourth-generation captains and experience the area's history and beauty firsthand. Take a tour with native Alaskans in a traditional village and meet some of the pioneers who call this land home.

Wildlife, History, and More

Sternwheeler boats transport you out into the Alaskan wilderness, but also back to a time when gold-rush fever was sweeping across the state. You climb aboard either the Discovery II or Discovery III for a fully narrated three-and-a-half-hour tour. As the wheel churns up the water, see if you can spot some of Alaska's abundant wildlife along the riverbank. Later on you'll see one of Alaska's bush pilots taking off right from the River. At a riverside fish camp, learn how Alaska natives traditionally prepared salmon for smoking and drying. (You'll find out how good it tastes when you sample Captain Jim's smoked salmon). Further down the river, share in the excitement, joy and hard work of an Iditarod dog kennel, run by the family of the late Iditarod champion Susan Butcher. The Discovery's pilot won't let you miss the amazing site we Alaskans call the "wedding of the waters", where the Chena and Tanana Rivers meet. The boiling current of the glacial Tanana creates clouds of silt that rise and fall as they meet the clear Chena waters.

Experience Native Culture

You'll also make an unforgettable one-hour stop at Chena Indian Village. Here native Alaskan guides will take you around their Athabascan village,giving you insight into their rich heritage. You'll learn about their connection to the land and animals of Alaska, and see close-up their clothing made of hide and furs, and decorated with beautiful beadwork.

Suitable for all ages and abilities. Wheelchairs available on request.