Mat-Su Valley Day Tours & Attractions
The Mat-Su Valley is an adventure center encompassing a huge area just a few hours north of Anchorage. Drive there for a day trip, or stay in the towns of Palmer, Wasilla, or Talkeetna and explore!
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Day Tours & Attractions
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Glacier Tours
Fishing Charters
Flightseeing Tours
Paddleboarding
Rafting Tours
Dog Sledding Tours
Guided Hiking
Jeep & ATV Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Gold Panning Tours
Zipline Tours
Jetboat & Riverboat Tours
Snowmobiling Tours
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Kayaking Tours
Glacier Tours View All
Unique opportunities to witness Alaska's stunning icy landscapes up close, whether by hiking, flightseeing, or even dog sledding.
While you may never join the ranks of climbers who have summited Denali, an up-close view of North America’s tallest peak can still be yours. K2 Aviation offers once-in-a-lifetime flightseeing tours among and above the Alaska Range. Add a glacier landing to get a sense of how immense these peaks really are.
With Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours, you can experience glaciers inaccessible by road. Never fear if you’ve never driven an before; this company teaches you to maneuver your ATV through the Alaskan wilderness with your guide at the lead. Your destination is the magnificent Knik Glacier, where you’ll enjoy lunch and gorgeous scenery.
Hop aboard an eco-friendly snowmobile in Girdwood and ride on groomed trails beneath massive, 7,000-foot glaciated peaks or visit the dazzling blue ice of Spencer Glacier. Or, head north of Anchorage for a trail ride through mid-alpine black spruce forests. No experience necessary, all gear provided, and warm beverages and snacks included.
For outstanding viewing and incredible access to remote places, there’s nothing like flightseeing by helicopter. Join Alaska Helicopter Tours – a locally-owned, highly-respected helicopter tour and charter company – for excursions that reveal hidden sites just minutes from Anchorage. Spot wildlife from the air, stand on a glacier or land on a remote airstrip.
Experience the thrill of heli-flightseeing year-round by flying with the experienced pilots from Heli Alaska, out of Wasilla. Just 40-minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll take off from a dock and be on your way to see Alaska from the air, looking down on glaciers, tundra, and wildlife. Many tours even include a glacier landing to explore these ancient rivers of ice on foot.
Locally known as “The Glacier Landing Company,” TAT has been flying climbers and sightseers to the Alaska Range and Denali since 1947. Talkeetna Air Taxi features a custom-designed fleet of planes, a dedicated customer service team, and a variety of tours for every budget.
Stunning scenery, a thrilling ride and happy puppies: this tour out of the Anchorage area offers an unbeatable combination of classic Alaska experiences that will delight families or — really, anybody. Taking a total of about 90 minutes, and running from mid-May to early September, this tour includes a Flightseeing round trip, a small friendly group environment, and plenty of one-on-one time with the dogs and their mushers.
Lift off in a helicopter for an incredibly scenic 15-minute flight over the Knik River on your way to the Knik Glacier. Once you’ve landed, your guide will help you get equipped with all the gear you need to make your ascent up the glacier wall or down into a glacial moulin, including rope, harness, helmet, boots, crampons, and ice tools. Never ice climbed before? No problem
Glacier trekking, kayaking, ice climbing, and other activities are even more special when combined with a spectacular helicopter ride through Alaska’s dramatic scenery. Thanks to key partnerships with other experienced Alaskan tour operators, Palmer based Outbound Heli Adventures is able to coordinate seamless outings of a lifetime! And, they pride themselves on offering the most amount of flight time with their excursions.
There’s climbing a mountain – and then there’s climbing an ICE mountain. Regardless of your climbing ability or experience, you’ll end the day feeling fulfilled and inspired. MICA also offers short, guided hikes and longer treks if you prefer a more leisurely explore of the glacier and its grandeur.
Experience the thrill of walking or climbing on a glacier. The Matanuska is Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier, and it’s just 90 minutes from Anchorage, so it’s an easy way to get up close and personal with these amazing natural wonders. You don’t need to be experienced in either activity — just be in good shape and up for adventure. You’ll either walk around on the glacier with crampons or learn how to use an ice axe and safely work your ...more
Paddleboarding becomes a truly unique sport in Alaska, especially when you have the opportunity to glide across bright blue pools on a glacier! And that’s exactly what you can do when you go glacier paddleboarding with Alaska Helicopter Tours. Enjoy a 15-minute scenic flight then set off on a serene paddle across crystal-clear water. No experience necessary!
Fishing Charters View All
Exploring Alaska’s backcountry lakes, forests and rivers is a phenomenal experience. Wilderness Place Lodge — tucked away on a remote river northwest of Anchorage — offers excellent access to nearly any freshwater fish you came to Alaska for, along with a unique eco-travel experience that comes with a high level of service, a variety of non-fishing activities and the mellow freedom to create an Alaskan experience that suits your own taste.
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of catching an iconic Alaskan fish like salmon or halibut. And when you take an intimate half- or full-day trip with the passionate anglers at Alaska Outdoors Addiction out of Anchorage, you’ll cast your line amid incredible scenery on an expedition that’s carefully catered to your interests. Rent the entire boat or come as a shared guest; either way, it will be a magical experience that’s perfect for both ...more
The Northwoods Lodge is a remote lodge where visitors can find themselves in a 45 minute flight from Anchorage. The lodge specializes in guided fishing, and guests can enjoy 8 to 10 hours of fishing a day if they choose. Guides help you spin or fly fish for trophy king salmon, silver and sockeye salmon, or resident rainbow trout, arctic grayling and northern pike
Fish more of the hot spots with Phantom Charters, a family company run by folks who live to fish and bring a lifetime of insider knowledge to your trip. Using special, shallow-running boats to get into hard-to-reach waters, they’ll take you to best river fishing around Talkeetna. Wander the bank and cast for Silvers, Chums, Pinks, and Sockeyes, or troll from behind the boat as well as shore fish for the Big Kings.
Flightseeing Tours View All
Each flightseeing adventure offers unique experiences ensuring that your Alaskan journey is as thrilling as it is memorable.
Experience the thrill of heli-flightseeing year-round by flying with the experienced pilots from Heli Alaska, out of Wasilla. Just 40-minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll take off from a dock and be on your way to see Alaska from the air, looking down on glaciers, tundra, and wildlife. Many tours even include a glacier landing to explore these ancient rivers of ice on foot.
For outstanding viewing and incredible access to remote places, there’s nothing like flightseeing by helicopter. Join Alaska Helicopter Tours – a locally-owned, highly-respected helicopter tour and charter company – for excursions that reveal hidden sites just minutes from Anchorage. Spot wildlife from the air, stand on a glacier or land on a remote airstrip.
While you may never join the ranks of climbers who have summited Denali, an up-close view of North America’s tallest peak can still be yours. K2 Aviation offers once-in-a-lifetime flightseeing tours among and above the Alaska Range. Add a glacier landing to get a sense of how immense these peaks really are.
Locally known as “The Glacier Landing Company,” TAT has been flying climbers and sightseers to the Alaska Range and Denali since 1947. Talkeetna Air Taxi features a custom-designed fleet of planes, a dedicated customer service team, and a variety of tours for every budget.
Glacier trekking, kayaking, ice climbing, and other activities are even more special when combined with a spectacular helicopter ride through Alaska’s dramatic scenery. Thanks to key partnerships with other experienced Alaskan tour operators, Palmer based Outbound Heli Adventures is able to coordinate seamless outings of a lifetime! And, they pride themselves on offering the most amount of flight time with their excursions.
Paddleboarding View All
Kayak, paddleboard & canoe rentals. Expert guides available.
Paddleboarding becomes a truly unique sport in Alaska, especially when you have the opportunity to glide across bright blue pools on a glacier! And that’s exactly what you can do when you go glacier paddleboarding with Alaska Helicopter Tours. Enjoy a 15-minute scenic flight then set off on a serene paddle across crystal-clear water. No experience necessary!
Glacier trekking, kayaking, ice climbing, and other activities are even more special when combined with a spectacular helicopter ride through Alaska’s dramatic scenery. Thanks to key partnerships with other experienced Alaskan tour operators, Palmer based Outbound Heli Adventures is able to coordinate seamless outings of a lifetime! And, they pride themselves on offering the most amount of flight time with their excursions.
Rafting Tours View All
The sport of packrafting is a great way to enjoy rafting and explore the gorgeous Alaskan wilderness. Do it with Alaska Helicopter Tours out of Palmer and you’ll also experience a scenic helicopter ride and have your choice of half- or full-day trips.
Talkeetna River Guides has offered expertly guided rafting day trips for over 20 years. Float through the remote wilderness of Denali State Park, just a stone’s throw away from Denali National Park’s wild south side. Choose the two-hour Talkeetna River Natural History Float Trip, the four-hour Chultina River Raft Tour, or an overnight or multi-day excursion.
If you’re new to whitewater rafting or experienced in shooting through rapids, Lion’s Head makes for an exciting whitewater rafting trip. You’ll spend 2.5 hours speeding down class II, III, and IV whitewater, either paddling yourself or hanging on as your guide steers the raft downstream. All the while, you’ll be passing through gorgeous wilderness — wide-open vistas with massive rock formations — where you’ll have the opportunity to look for ...more
Go for a relaxing 3‑hour float trip down gentle Willow Creek as you take in the gorgeous scenery of the Alaskan backcountry. Departing from Pioneer Lodge, just off the Parks Highway south of Talkeetna, you’ll board a raft with up to 6 others and an expert guide. Then just kick back, or grab a paddle if you like: You can expect easy-gliding Class I and II rapids on this gentle river.
Dog Sledding Tours View All
Perfect for families, adventurers, and anyone looking to dive into a quintessential Alaskan sport.
Get an insider’s look at the iconic Alaskan sport of dog mushing when you visit Happy Trails Kennel in Big Lake, operated by four-time Iditarod champion (and member of the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame) Martin Buser. You can visit year-round; come in winter and you can experience the thrill of dog mushing yourself on a dog sled ride!
Experience the excitement of racing champion sled dogs at the Alaska Mushing School, just 75 minutes from Anchorage. Get a professional’s insight into the mushing lifestyle as you ride behind a team of energetic sled dogs on trails connected to the famous Iditarod route. Bundle up and ride in comfort, or brave the cold and drive the team yourself!
Winter or summer, experience the thrill of running Iditarod sled dogs and even have a chance to drive! Meet the sled dogs and hear first-hand just what it’s like to run the Iditarod.
Stunning scenery, a thrilling ride and happy puppies: this tour out of the Anchorage area offers an unbeatable combination of classic Alaska experiences that will delight families or — really, anybody. Taking a total of about 90 minutes, and running from mid-May to early September, this tour includes a Flightseeing round trip, a small friendly group environment, and plenty of one-on-one time with the dogs and their mushers.
Summer or winter, visit a family-run champion kennel, meet friendly dogs and an experienced musher for a ride along private trails with views of Denali. Opt to ride in the sled or mush your own. Or, for a truly authentic adventure, go on a training run for the Iditarod! Large groups and special events welcome when organized in advance.
Find out what this iconic Alaskan sport is all about when you meet the dogs and learn about racing them with Susitna Sled Dog Adventures out of Talkeetna. Come in winter and you can also hop on a sled to really feel what dog mushing is like!
Guided Hiking View All
Get out there on one or more of these super-accessible trips, which range from easy nature walks to strenuous alpine multi-day treks. You’ll not only get a healthy dose of scenery, you’ll also exercise your body, mind, and soul. In winter, marvel at frozen waterfalls, snowshoe treks and even heli-snowshoeing!
Get a unique view of the Alaskan wilderness on a four- or seven-day backpacking trip through the backcountry. You’ll be trekking on Kesugi Ridge in Denali State Park, with magnificent views of Mt. McKinley and of course plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Your experienced naturalist guide will be with you the whole way, cooking up great meals at your campsites. You should be fit enough to carry a pack up moderate hills, though you’ll ...more
This fly-in lodge on a private lake in the Talkeetna Mountains is a great place to unplug. It is also an ideal destination to escape the crowds as the lodge only accommodates small groups of 10 or less. Take guided hikes to look for wildlife and enjoy nature, kayak, go fishing, pick wild berries, or just relax and enjoy the peace and blissful views.
Experience the thrill of walking or climbing on a glacier. The Matanuska is Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier, and it’s just 90 minutes from Anchorage, so it’s an easy way to get up close and personal with these amazing natural wonders. You don’t need to be experienced in either activity — just be in good shape and up for adventure. You’ll either walk around on the glacier with crampons or learn how to use an ice axe and safely work your ...more
Set off with a small group and an experienced guide for an unforgettable exploration of the Mat-Su Valley area on foot. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains to the south and the Talkeetna Mountains to the north, there are craggy, snow-capped peaks and rushing rivers everywhere you turn: a classic Alaskan setting that comes packed with a rich history. Opt for a half-day or full day hike, or choose a hike & brew or a town tour to learn the ...more
Experience the thrill of heli-flightseeing year-round by flying with the experienced pilots from Heli Alaska, out of Wasilla. Just 40-minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll take off from a dock and be on your way to see Alaska from the air, looking down on glaciers, tundra, and wildlife. Many tours even include a glacier landing to explore these ancient rivers of ice on foot.
Glacier trekking, kayaking, ice climbing, and other activities are even more special when combined with a spectacular helicopter ride through Alaska’s dramatic scenery. Thanks to key partnerships with other experienced Alaskan tour operators, Palmer based Outbound Heli Adventures is able to coordinate seamless outings of a lifetime! And, they pride themselves on offering the most amount of flight time with their excursions.
Explore Alaska on foot — take a scenic day hike into the South Denali area. Choose one of 3 great hikes; from an easy, 2‑mile stroll to a moderately strenuous 5½-hour hike. You’ll get spectacular views and see plenty of wildlife as you trek with your experienced naturalist guide. Depending on the hike you may pass pristine lakes, see an old pioneer’s cabin, catch a glimpse of Mt. McKinley, and even have the chance to spot foraging bears. These ...more
Lift off in a helicopter for an incredibly scenic 15-minute flight over the Knik River on your way to the Knik Glacier. Once you’ve landed, your guide will help you get equipped with all the gear you need to make your ascent up the glacier wall or down into a glacial moulin, including rope, harness, helmet, boots, crampons, and ice tools. Never ice climbed before? No problem
Go hiking in the Alaskan wilderness, but bookend your hike with a spectacular helicopter ride. Lift off from Talkeetna for a short, scenic flight into the boreal forest around town. Then get ready to start hiking with your experienced naturalist guide. You’ll get great views of Denali, the Alaska Range, and countless mountain peaks as you walk through the alpine tundra of the South Denali area — it’s a hiker’s paradise only accessible by chopper. ...more
There’s climbing a mountain – and then there’s climbing an ICE mountain. Regardless of your climbing ability or experience, you’ll end the day feeling fulfilled and inspired. MICA also offers short, guided hikes and longer treks if you prefer a more leisurely explore of the glacier and its grandeur.
Jeep & ATV Tours View All
Join Hatcher Pass ATV Tours in Willow for an unforgettable Alaskan winter adventure. Climb into a heated UTV with snow tracks for a 2.5‑hour scenic tour through the Talkeetna Mountains, offered at sunrise and sunset. With options for beginners and seasoned riders, these guided tours promise warmth, safety, and the stunning beauty of Alaska’s winter landscape.
Just 60 miles north of Anchorage, in the heart of the Hatcher Pass Recreation Area of the Talkeetna Mountains, you can experience amazing tours, comfortable lodging, and hearty meals at Snowhook Adventures’ Lodge and Cabins. Whether you’re here in winter, spring, summer or fall, you can enjoy all-inclusive overnight experiences. Depending on the season, these tours include ATV/UTV riding, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, northern lights ...more
Experience the thrill of heli-flightseeing year-round by flying with the experienced pilots from Heli Alaska, out of Wasilla. Just 40-minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll take off from a dock and be on your way to see Alaska from the air, looking down on glaciers, tundra, and wildlife. Many tours even include a glacier landing to explore these ancient rivers of ice on foot.
Lift off in a helicopter for an incredibly scenic 15-minute flight over the Knik River on your way to the Knik Glacier. Once you’ve landed, your guide will help you get equipped with all the gear you need to make your ascent up the glacier wall or down into a glacial moulin, including rope, harness, helmet, boots, crampons, and ice tools. Never ice climbed before? No problem
The sport of packrafting is a great way to enjoy rafting and explore the gorgeous Alaskan wilderness. Do it with Alaska Helicopter Tours out of Palmer and you’ll also experience a scenic helicopter ride and have your choice of half- or full-day trips.
Paddleboarding becomes a truly unique sport in Alaska, especially when you have the opportunity to glide across bright blue pools on a glacier! And that’s exactly what you can do when you go glacier paddleboarding with Alaska Helicopter Tours. Enjoy a 15-minute scenic flight then set off on a serene paddle across crystal-clear water. No experience necessary!
Find out what this iconic Alaskan sport is all about when you meet the dogs and learn about racing them with Susitna Sled Dog Adventures out of Talkeetna. Come in winter and you can also hop on a sled to really feel what dog mushing is like!
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of catching an iconic Alaskan fish like salmon or halibut. And when you take an intimate half- or full-day trip with the passionate anglers at Alaska Outdoors Addiction out of Anchorage, you’ll cast your line amid incredible scenery on an expedition that’s carefully catered to your interests. Rent the entire boat or come as a shared guest; either way, it will be a magical experience that’s perfect for both ...more
Get an insider’s look at the iconic Alaskan sport of dog mushing when you visit Happy Trails Kennel in Big Lake, operated by four-time Iditarod champion (and member of the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame) Martin Buser. You can visit year-round; come in winter and you can experience the thrill of dog mushing yourself on a dog sled ride!
Lodge in a spacious heated yurt with kitchenettes and wood stoves year round in the iconic Matanuska-Susitna Valley with endless activities from hiking to dog sledding and gazing at the northern lights.
2 – 5 Nights
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
This amazing adventure combines two wilderness lodges, fine cuisine, a float plane ride, heli-glacier tour and guided river fishing – all within a convenient 100-mile radius of Anchorage!
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
This amazing adventure combines glamping and staying at a wilderness lodge, fine cuisine, with a float plane as your main transportation
Pilot a utility task vehicle (UTV) — an ATV that’s fully enclosed — with family and friends as you splash through rivers, take in stunning views, and even pan for gold on this unique, 3‑hour excursion with Hatcher Pass ATV Tours out of Willow.
Settler’s Bay Lodge has long been a tradition for locals, who come to this dinner-only restaurant for the delicious cuisine and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Huge floor-to-ceiling windows showcase spectacular views of the gorgeous Matanuska-Susitna Valley, with the Chugach Mountains beyond.
Skeetawk is derived from the Dena’ina word Shk’ituk’t, which means “where we slide down” — a perfect description for this community ski area set in the Talkeetna mountains, 90 minutes north of Anchorage and 25 minutes from downtown Palmer. Hatcher Pass has always been a place backcountry skiers flocked to, but Skeetawk makes the great terrain available to even more snowsports lovers.
Set off with a small group and an experienced guide for an unforgettable exploration of the Mat-Su Valley area on foot. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains to the south and the Talkeetna Mountains to the north, there are craggy, snow-capped peaks and rushing rivers everywhere you turn: a classic Alaskan setting that comes packed with a rich history. Opt for a half-day or full day hike, or choose a hike & brew or a town tour to learn the ...more
Iconic and remote Alaskan adventure lodge in the Talkeetna Mountains, accessible by road just 60 miles north of Anchorage. Open year-round, you’ll stay in rustic, comfortable cabins with access to some of the best hiking and skiing in the world, just outside your door. The lodge and cabins sit dramatically above treeline, offering breathtaking mountain views and endless adventure opportunities.
Glacier trekking, kayaking, ice climbing, and other activities are even more special when combined with a spectacular helicopter ride through Alaska’s dramatic scenery. Thanks to key partnerships with other experienced Alaskan tour operators, Palmer based Outbound Heli Adventures is able to coordinate seamless outings of a lifetime! And, they pride themselves on offering the most amount of flight time with their excursions.
This unique market is located in Wasilla, about 60 miles north of Anchorage. You’ll find creations of over 80 Alaskan artists and chefs that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts for friends back home.
Get out there on one or more of these super-accessible trips, which range from easy nature walks to strenuous alpine multi-day treks. You’ll not only get a healthy dose of scenery, you’ll also exercise your body, mind, and soul. In winter, marvel at frozen waterfalls, snowshoe treks and even heli-snowshoeing!
Summer or winter, visit a family-run champion kennel, meet friendly dogs and an experienced musher for a ride along private trails with views of Denali. Opt to ride in the sled or mush your own. Or, for a truly authentic adventure, go on a training run for the Iditarod! Large groups and special events welcome when organized in advance.
$4,995+ per person
4 night / 5 day
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
This package combines the most impressive aspects of interior remote Alaska; flightseeing, glacier hiking, dog sledding, fishing, photography, and a deluxe Alaskan lodge. Play hard by day, then wine and dine yourselves to a blissful sleep in your private cabin.
$5,995 per person
6 day / 5 night
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
Combine the best of Alaska summer experiences (flightseeing, fishing, dog sledding, bear viewing, and more) during the month around solstice, when the weather is warm and there is 24-hours of daylight.
$2,995+
2 – 4 Night
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
Experience the best of June fishing at the remote, fly-in Wilderness Place Lodge where you’ll target rainbow trout, arctic grayling, and northern pike.
Hop aboard an eco-friendly snowmobile in Girdwood and ride on groomed trails beneath massive, 7,000-foot glaciated peaks or visit the dazzling blue ice of Spencer Glacier. Or, head north of Anchorage for a trail ride through mid-alpine black spruce forests. No experience necessary, all gear provided, and warm beverages and snacks included.
This intimate 4‑room B&B, just 45 minutes from Anchorage in charming Palmer, is set on six gorgeous acres and comes with great views, delicious breakfasts, and hosts who are passionate about making you feel right at home.
Experience Alaska ATV and Side by Side tours at historic Hatcher Pass. These half-day and full-day tours take place high in the Talkeetna mountains where you will venture through creeks, twisting trails, and climb to amazing views. This tour is suitable for beginners and more advanced riders! Located just an hour from Anchorage.
Feel the thrill of exploring the Alaskan wilderness while driving your own snowmobile over the tundra, looking for wildlife and taking in amazing views. And on a clear day you’ll get an amazing view of Denali.
Winter or summer, experience the thrill of running Iditarod sled dogs and even have a chance to drive! Meet the sled dogs and hear first-hand just what it’s like to run the Iditarod.
Just a 45-minute drive from Anchorage, Raven’s Perch lies within the main lodge at the cozy Alaska Glacier Lodge, with big windows and an outdoor deck looking out to a spectacular view. The focus here is on local, sustainable ingredients and products. The staff talks with local farmers and plans ahead to see what vegetables are coming into season to create their menus.
In Summer (May — September), The Denali Star Train services Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks. In Winter (October — April) the Aurora Winter Train operates as a flag top train between Anchorage and Fairbanks. It stops here heading North on Saturday, and South on Sunday.
In Summer (May — September), The Denali Star Train services Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks. In Winter (October — April) the Aurora Winter Train operates as a flag top train between Anchorage and Fairbanks. It stops here heading North on Saturday, and South on Sunday. Hurricane Turn services areas near Talkeetna as a flagstop on a limited schedule year-round.
Get a unique view of the Alaskan wilderness on a four- or seven-day backpacking trip through the backcountry. You’ll be trekking on Kesugi Ridge in Denali State Park, with magnificent views of Mt. McKinley and of course plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Your experienced naturalist guide will be with you the whole way, cooking up great meals at your campsites. You should be fit enough to carry a pack up moderate hills, though you’ll ...more
Go for a relaxing 3‑hour float trip down gentle Willow Creek as you take in the gorgeous scenery of the Alaskan backcountry. Departing from Pioneer Lodge, just off the Parks Highway south of Talkeetna, you’ll board a raft with up to 6 others and an expert guide. Then just kick back, or grab a paddle if you like: You can expect easy-gliding Class I and II rapids on this gentle river.
$1095 per person
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
In just 24 hours you can experience an Alaskan float plane ride, an overnight in a deluxe wilderness lodge with a gourmet dinner, and a taste of Alaska’s famous river fishing.
$4,070+
5 Days / 4 Nights
Land Package Type: Guided Backcountry Adventures
This tour combines a scenic float-plane trip with relaxed days fishing and floating along dynamic rivers. It’s fully guided and outfitted, so you can sit back and enjoy all the activities along with comfortable accommodations and superb meals. You also “glamp” it for a night at an even more remote location that lets you truly get away from it all.
Winter in Alaska is a magical time, with fewer visitors and a serene, snow-covered landscape. If you’re here from mid-September to mid-May, you can take it in from the comfort of the Aurora Winter Train, which runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks. It’s an easy and memorable way to travel north and experience the aurora borealis, or even do a weekend getaway to Talkeetna.
Beginning a 1‑hour drive north of Anchorage in Government Hill Recreation Area, Government Peak Race Trail offers a fine opportunity for a hard workout; it climbs some 3,700 vertical feet in just 3 miles. Plus, this climb doesn’t include any extraordinary dangers. (A friend refers to one short ledge on this trail as “death rock,” but she tends to exaggerate.) Some sections require special care to negotiate, but you won’t have to traverse any ...more
It’s not very often that people can see a glacier in an untamed and remote location, far from any road or cruise-ship route. But if you feel capable and confident enough to climb a very rough trail up many vertical feet of rocky terrain, then you might consider undertaking the hike to Snowbird Pass, located high in the Talkeetna Mountains just north of Hatcher Pass. From this vantage point you can look down the entire length of Snowbird Glacier. ...more
Syncline Mountain features two summits— whichever you choose, you’ll hike beneath a whole lot of sky and look out on a whole lot of country.
Want to feel dwarfed by Alaska’s mountains? Take a 2‑hour drive north on the Parks Highway and then up Hatcher Pass Road, where you’ll find this 2‑mile-long ATV trail — a wide but occasionally steep path that leads to the crest of Box Lake Ridge. From the big, rounded top of this ridge, you can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the enormous Talkeetna Mountains that surround you.
This 4.5‑mile trail, some 2 hours north of Anchorage on the west side of Hatcher Pass, climbs 1,000 feet up a very typical Talkeetna valley — long, broad, and lined with towering peaks on both sides. It also passes by relics and ruins of old mining days, when these valleys echoed with the sounds of picks and drills.
There’s nothing quite like camping in the woods with the family when you’re a kid. The crackling campfire and gooey s’mores. Biking around the campground loop. Running through the forest and gathering wood. Catching (and landing) that first fish. Here we offer details for nine great public family campgrounds within a 90-minute drive from Anchorage.
A premier paddling destination in summer, the eight-mile loop canoe trail through 14 lakes can be skated after freeze-up and before significant snowfall. People often cruise the entire route in one long day, or skate out a few lakes and return. Be prepared to hike portages up to a half-mile between lakes. 71 miles north of Anchorage.
These frozen channels wind for miles across the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge off the Glenn Highway in the mouth of the Matanuska and Knik river valleys, just 35 miles north of Anchorage. Either travel the streams or explore extensive pond networks on the flats.
Stunning scenery, a thrilling ride and happy puppies: this tour out of the Anchorage area offers an unbeatable combination of classic Alaska experiences that will delight families or — really, anybody. Taking a total of about 90 minutes, and running from mid-May to early September, this tour includes a Flightseeing round trip, a small friendly group environment, and plenty of one-on-one time with the dogs and their mushers.
Explore the expansive gravel beds or meander along the mighty Matanuska-Susitna River and link up with the Matsu River Park trails, located in the trees to the west.
There are some nice long downhills with banked turns, a few shallow creek crossings, and some chunk sections. Most of this trail lies on south-facing hillsides, with views of the Knik River Valley and Pioneer Peak.
There’s still gold in Alaska, and you can learn from Denali Gold Tours what it takes to pan for the shiny flakes in pristine water near Trapper Creek. Spend a half-day or full-day in the gorgeous Alaska countryside with your guide, who will share old-timer panning techniques and stories from the dramatic days of Alaska’s gold rush.
For outstanding viewing and incredible access to remote places, there’s nothing like flightseeing by helicopter. Join Alaska Helicopter Tours – a locally-owned, highly-respected helicopter tour and charter company – for excursions that reveal hidden sites just minutes from Anchorage. Spot wildlife from the air, stand on a glacier or land on a remote airstrip.
Experience the excitement of racing champion sled dogs at the Alaska Mushing School, just 75 minutes from Anchorage. Get a professional’s insight into the mushing lifestyle as you ride behind a team of energetic sled dogs on trails connected to the famous Iditarod route. Bundle up and ride in comfort, or brave the cold and drive the team yourself!
Go hiking in the Alaskan wilderness, but bookend your hike with a spectacular helicopter ride. Lift off from Talkeetna for a short, scenic flight into the boreal forest around town. Then get ready to start hiking with your experienced naturalist guide. You’ll get great views of Denali, the Alaska Range, and countless mountain peaks as you walk through the alpine tundra of the South Denali area — it’s a hiker’s paradise only accessible by chopper. ...more
If you’re new to whitewater rafting or experienced in shooting through rapids, Lion’s Head makes for an exciting whitewater rafting trip. You’ll spend 2.5 hours speeding down class II, III, and IV whitewater, either paddling yourself or hanging on as your guide steers the raft downstream. All the while, you’ll be passing through gorgeous wilderness — wide-open vistas with massive rock formations — where you’ll have the opportunity to look for ...more
Nothing gets your heart pounding like zooming high above a glacially carved valley. The Nitro and G2 are two of the longest zips in Alaska, and the G2 is the fastest in the state. You’ll get the most amazing minute or so of sight-seeing you’ve ever had, gliding up to a half mile near the Matanuska River, and into the forested area around Matanuska Glacier.
Explore Alaska on foot — take a scenic day hike into the South Denali area. Choose one of 3 great hikes; from an easy, 2‑mile stroll to a moderately strenuous 5½-hour hike. You’ll get spectacular views and see plenty of wildlife as you trek with your experienced naturalist guide. Depending on the hike you may pass pristine lakes, see an old pioneer’s cabin, catch a glimpse of Mt. McKinley, and even have the chance to spot foraging bears. These ...more
The folks at this non-profit farm outside Palmer were doing sustainable agriculture long before it was cool before most people used such a term. Located 45 minutes from Anchorage, the Musk Ox Farm provides a fascinating look at the animal reintroduced to Alaska in the 1930s.
Combine great views of the Alaska Range and Denali with the thrill of ziplining. Set in the forested ridges above the Talkeetna River Valley, this is the farthest-north canopy tour in North America. On these nine ziplines and three suspension bridges, you can get up close to the birch, cottonwood, and spruce trees of the boreal forest — it’s earth’s largest ecosystem and a critical nesting habitat for migrating songbirds.
This lodge offers spectacular views of Mount McKinley and is situated within Denali State Park on the banks of the Chulitna River. Rooms offer nine-foot ceilings and fans; some offer amazing mountain views. When you’re not in your room, relax in the Great Room with its huge stone fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows. Or, step outside and stroll one of the three nature trails, either on your own or on a guided, park ranger-led walk.
With Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours, you can experience glaciers inaccessible by road. Never fear if you’ve never driven an before; this company teaches you to maneuver your ATV through the Alaskan wilderness with your guide at the lead. Your destination is the magnificent Knik Glacier, where you’ll enjoy lunch and gorgeous scenery.
The Hurricane Turn Train operates on Thursday through Sunday between Talkeetna and Hurricane Gulch from mid May to mid September. You can either take a scenic journey round trip, or you can ask to be let off at whichever mile marker you choose. This train is how many people who live in the backcountry gain access to their homes or cabins. It is also popular for fishermen who gain access to some great fishing spots by train. Get back on the ...more
The Northwoods Lodge is a remote lodge where visitors can find themselves in a 45 minute flight from Anchorage. The lodge specializes in guided fishing, and guests can enjoy 8 to 10 hours of fishing a day if they choose. Guides help you spin or fly fish for trophy king salmon, silver and sockeye salmon, or resident rainbow trout, arctic grayling and northern pike
While you may never join the ranks of climbers who have summited Denali, an up-close view of North America’s tallest peak can still be yours. K2 Aviation offers once-in-a-lifetime flightseeing tours among and above the Alaska Range. Add a glacier landing to get a sense of how immense these peaks really are.
In the agricultural Matanuska Valley just north of Anchorage, you can pet a reindeer or feed fresh willow to a bull moose. Set on a 200-acre plot in Palmer, the Reindeer Farm has been in the Williams family for three generations. During the one-hour tour, you’ll hear interesting, funny, and insightful stories about these wild animals while walking around the property. If you want to see the baby reindeer, come in June!
Talkeetna River Guides has offered expertly guided rafting day trips for over 20 years. Float through the remote wilderness of Denali State Park, just a stone’s throw away from Denali National Park’s wild south side. Choose the two-hour Talkeetna River Natural History Float Trip, the four-hour Chultina River Raft Tour, or an overnight or multi-day excursion.
Locally known as “The Glacier Landing Company,” TAT has been flying climbers and sightseers to the Alaska Range and Denali since 1947. Talkeetna Air Taxi features a custom-designed fleet of planes, a dedicated customer service team, and a variety of tours for every budget.
Get hands-on and up close as you learn about local animals, trappers, and the Dena’ina Indians, with the wilderness as your classroom. Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures makes it possible with their jet boat adventures on the Susitna, Talkeetna and Chulitna Rivers. For some visitors, this exploration will be their deepest immersion into the Alaskan wilderness — something you just can’t get from a flightseeing tour, a cruise, or a car.
Built atop a high bluff, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge overlooks the Susitna River Valley and surveys the entire Alaska Range, with Mt. Denali right in the middle. On a clear day, all of the common rooms plus certain guest rooms offer this same fabulous panorama. Take in the view as you enjoy a meal and a selection from the award-winning wine list.
Visible outside the windows of the Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau, this state wildlife refuge is the result of the 1964 earthquake. Literally overnight, the land dropped by 6 to 20 feet; hay fields and pastureland became salt flats and marshland. Once home to cows and grains, the land is now prime habitat for moose, birds, and fish. Some 20,000 acres are protected in the refuge, which is a popular recreation and wildlife-viewing… ...more
In the Talkeetna Mountains between the towns of Willow and Palmer, Hatcher Pass is a local favorite for recreation or a scenic drive. Hike in alpine tundra dotted with wildflowers and ptarmigan, ski fresh, deep powder, or visit Independence Mine Historical State Park.
This short, paved trail is an hour’s drive north of Anchorage in southern Wasilla. It leads out to a bluff on Palmer Hay Flats — a large stretch of wetlands with all kinds of wildlife. There, a viewing platform overlooks the flats and the Chugach Mountains beyond.
The 5‑mile-long Eska Falls Trail is located a 2‑hour drive north of Anchorage in the mountains above the town of Sutton. And it leads to one of nature’s symmetrically framed wonders — a 100-foot waterfall located at the end of a mile-long valley that’s flanked by two massive summits. This setting makes Eska Falls not so much a hike to a destination as much as a hike to a presentation.
Two trails travel over the Mat-Su College lands; one from the college and one from Snodgrass Hall. The Mat-Su College trailhead leads to a hilly loop and opens to beautiful views of Lazy Mountain, Twin Peaks, Bodenburge Butte, and Knik Glacier — the best mountain views in the entire greenbelt system.
Located one-third of the way from Palmer to Wasilla, this 33-mile trail system meanders through boreal forest, farmland, and the rolling moraines left by the glaciers of the last Ice Age. The trails are some of the only non-mountain, non-motorized pathways in the area, and they’re popular with dog walkers, mountain bikers, geo-cachers, cross-country skiers, runners, and equestrians.
Summit Lake, located some 60 miles north of Anchorage at the crest of Hatcher Pass, offers a short, memorable lakeside ramble. Here you can explore the surrounding gullies and slopes or just sit and watch hang gliders drift out over the long Willow Creek Valley, which extends for miles from the west side of the pass.
Discover cozy cabins, great food, and big Alaskan adventures at this intimate lodge that sits on the edge of the wilderness yet is super-accessible from Anchorage. It lies tucked in at the back of the Knik River Valley and at the end of Knik River Road, where Alaska’s real wilderness opens up, with mountain and river views — but without a flight or long drive. It’s the perfect place to escape for a few days, with lots of activities available from ...more
During periods of clear weather, this route through Denali State Park offers similar terrain and scenery to Denali National Park — including unparalleled views of Denali — without the cumbersome permitting process. This trail system offers many options for starting and ending points, as there are four trailheads along its length.
How to get ThereThe Plumley-Maud Trail can be accessed from the end of Maud Road, or from the corner on Plumley Road near Caudill Road. 1) Access from Maud Road: From Palmer go south east 3 1⁄2 miles on the Old Glenn Highway, take a left on Maud Road, follow Maud Road for 1 1⁄2 miles. There is a small turn around and limited parking before the creek directly east of the road. Please be careful not to block the entrance to the trail or the… ...more
Are you a mountain runner looking for a tough workout? Consider Pioneer Ridge Trail. This trail, located a 1‑hour drive north of Anchorage on scenic Knik River Road, climbs some 5,200 feet over its 6 miles. Other trails, like Lazy Mountain Trail and Mount Marathon Race Route, may be steeper or rockier, but no trail in the Chugach Mountains climbs so steadily for so long as Pioneer Ridge.
No official trail in Southcentral Alaska climbs as high as Matanuska Peak Trail. Beginning in a subdivision across the Matanuska River from Palmer, this nearly 6‑mile-long trail runs up some 5,700 vertical feet. Your destination is the 6,119-foot summit of Matanuska Peak, the very prominent rock spire that fills the sky just east of Palmer. But despite the imposing appearance of this mountain, the trail to its summit requires no extensive ...more
Fish more of the hot spots with Phantom Charters, a family company run by folks who live to fish and bring a lifetime of insider knowledge to your trip. Using special, shallow-running boats to get into hard-to-reach waters, they’ll take you to best river fishing around Talkeetna. Wander the bank and cast for Silvers, Chums, Pinks, and Sockeyes, or troll from behind the boat as well as shore fish for the Big Kings.
This fly-in lodge on a private lake in the Talkeetna Mountains is a great place to unplug. It is also an ideal destination to escape the crowds as the lodge only accommodates small groups of 10 or less. Take guided hikes to look for wildlife and enjoy nature, kayak, go fishing, pick wild berries, or just relax and enjoy the peace and blissful views.
Experience the thrill of walking or climbing on a glacier. The Matanuska is Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier, and it’s just 90 minutes from Anchorage, so it’s an easy way to get up close and personal with these amazing natural wonders. You don’t need to be experienced in either activity — just be in good shape and up for adventure. You’ll either walk around on the glacier with crampons or learn how to use an ice axe and safely work your ...more
Exploring Alaska’s backcountry lakes, forests and rivers is a phenomenal experience. Wilderness Place Lodge — tucked away on a remote river northwest of Anchorage — offers excellent access to nearly any freshwater fish you came to Alaska for, along with a unique eco-travel experience that comes with a high level of service, a variety of non-fishing activities and the mellow freedom to create an Alaskan experience that suits your own taste.
Some 15,000 years ago, this glacier reached another 50 miles west to the Palmer area. It now has a four-mile wide towering face that you can walk right up to and touch. Keep an eye out for summertime ice-climbers at this most impressive roadside glacier. Directions: Head north from Anchorage on the Glenn Highway. At mile 102, you can drive down to Glacier Park (888−253−4480), then hike 15 – 20 minutes to the face of glacier.Distance: 102 miles ...more
With a length of just 1.5 miles and a summit reaching only 874 feet, West Butte Trail on Bodenburg Butte — a 45-minute drive north of Anchorage — makes for a fine family outing. But even if you’re a more experienced hiker, don’t let the butte’s dwarf-like height dissuade you. This small bump in the center of a grand alluvial plain offers far-reaching views from its summit; plus, the climb includes a pulse-quickening 0.25 miles of stairs up the steep ...more
Why Take This Hike This trail, located 90 minutes north of Anchorage just across the Matanuska River from downtown Palmer, makes no pretense about its purpose. Almost immediately after leaving the parking area, it begins to climb straight up the steep west face of Lazy Mountain. For some 2,000 feet, there’s nary a switchback or respite as the trail winds up to the summit ridge. It’s a truly breathless workout. The Details Out of Palmer,… ...more
This is a popular, 4.3‑mile-long (8.6 round-trip) trail located 2 hours north of Anchorage in the Hatcher Pass area. It’s also gorgeous. At one point it climbs directly alongside a sheet of waterfalls falling from a wide granite ledge. As the trail winds its way to these falls, it passes the lake into which the falls drain. And after the falls, the trail ends at the tarn from which the falls drain. In other words, hike this trail and you’ll see a ...more
As you approach the Independence Mine Parking Lot, the trail can be seen to the far right end. It crosses over a small bridge, and winds up past an old abandoned mining cabin, and then up a debris field and finally to the lake. Round trip, the hike is almost 2 miles, and the elevation gain is approximately 600 feet. The trail can be muddy and wet for the first .25 miles, but it’s worth the hike to see Gold Cord Lake, and a great view of the Mine ...more
A straightforward trip with big scenery payoffs, like the picturesque Mint Hut and a valley dotted with hanging glaciers. This trip is a great first backpacking trip in Alaska with simple logistics. It’s 16 miles with options for additional miles and side trips.
Some 50 miles north of Anchorage, this 1.5‑mile trail makes for a fine family outing. From the picnic table at the uppermost end of the trail, you’ll find a satisfying panoramic view of the Matanuska River and Knik River valleys. It’s a view as good, or better, than that from many summits.
This recreation area is just a mile and a half from town, but it feels like wilderness — with deep woods and several lakes, it’s a great place to hike, run, canoe, fish, or look for wildlife. In winter, cross-country ski, walk, or fat bike on the multi-use trails.
Where else can you walk to the end of Main Street and find yourself at the confluence of three wild rivers, overlooking a 20,000-foot peak? Close to downtown, this large, river-centered park offers wide open, untouched spaces, along with great panoramic view of the Alaska Range.
Beginning almost 120 miles northeast of Anchorage on the Glenn Highway, the trail to the summit of Gunsight Mountain takes a while to reach. After all, it involves a 3.5‑mile, 3,300-foot climb through some very big country. But the view from the top makes for an all-day excursion that you won’t easily forget.
Enjoy your own private log cabin in the wilderness, with all the modern conveniences, just an hour north of Anchorage and minutes from Wasilla and Palmer. Nestled at the entrance to Hatcher Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains, your cozy log cabin makes an ideal base camp for all your Alaskan adventures!
The Fishhook Trailhead parking lot is located at mile 16.5 of Hatcher Pass Road. This area is actively used year round. In the summer it’s a great area to hike and in late summer the slopes are abundant with blueberries. This trailhead also leads to Marmot Mountain, were paragliders launch from the top and land in the parking lot. In the winter, the area draws individuals to sled, ski and snowmachine. This trailhead intersects with The Hatcher ...more
Owners Matti and Dan cannot think of a better way to appreciate Alaska than sharing it with others. Matti was born and raised in Palmer, Alaska and has been on snowmachines most of her life. Alaska Backcountry Adventures offers “mild to wild” experiences and prides itself on providing a customized experience for all levels of ability. It offers the widest variety of expeditions on the latest and greatest equipment.
There’s climbing a mountain – and then there’s climbing an ICE mountain. Regardless of your climbing ability or experience, you’ll end the day feeling fulfilled and inspired. MICA also offers short, guided hikes and longer treks if you prefer a more leisurely explore of the glacier and its grandeur.
For more than 75 years, the Alaska State Fair has an end-of-summer extravaganza with rides, food, and more, held each August in Palmer.
Sample delicious syrup and sweets made from birch trees at Kahiltna Birchworks in Talkeetna — the world’s largest producer of birch syrup. Stop in to shop, or for a tour of the facility at mile 1.1 of the Talkeetna Spur Rd, just off the Parks Highway. You’ll also find Alaskan food products (many wild harvested), botanicals, and functional art like pottery, tiles, birch bark and wood crafts. Products are also available online.
Sightseeing Tours View All
Sightseeing & Food Tours
Sample delicious syrup and sweets made from birch trees at Kahiltna Birchworks in Talkeetna — the world’s largest producer of birch syrup. Stop in to shop, or for a tour of the facility at mile 1.1 of the Talkeetna Spur Rd, just off the Parks Highway. You’ll also find Alaskan food products (many wild harvested), botanicals, and functional art like pottery, tiles, birch bark and wood crafts. Products are also available online.
The Hurricane Turn Train operates on Thursday through Sunday between Talkeetna and Hurricane Gulch from mid May to mid September. You can either take a scenic journey round trip, or you can ask to be let off at whichever mile marker you choose. This train is how many people who live in the backcountry gain access to their homes or cabins. It is also popular for fishermen who gain access to some great fishing spots by train. Get back on the ...more
Set off with a small group and an experienced guide for an unforgettable exploration of the Mat-Su Valley area on foot. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains to the south and the Talkeetna Mountains to the north, there are craggy, snow-capped peaks and rushing rivers everywhere you turn: a classic Alaskan setting that comes packed with a rich history. Opt for a half-day or full day hike, or choose a hike & brew or a town tour to learn the ...more
Gold Panning Tours View All
There’s still gold in Alaska, and you can learn from Denali Gold Tours what it takes to pan for the shiny flakes in pristine water near Trapper Creek. Spend a half-day or full-day in the gorgeous Alaska countryside with your guide, who will share old-timer panning techniques and stories from the dramatic days of Alaska’s gold rush.
Zipline Tours View All
See glaciers, mountains, and boreal forests • Talkeetna & Glacier View
Combine great views of the Alaska Range and Denali with the thrill of ziplining. Set in the forested ridges above the Talkeetna River Valley, this is the farthest-north canopy tour in North America. On these nine ziplines and three suspension bridges, you can get up close to the birch, cottonwood, and spruce trees of the boreal forest — it’s earth’s largest ecosystem and a critical nesting habitat for migrating songbirds.
Nothing gets your heart pounding like zooming high above a glacially carved valley. The Nitro and G2 are two of the longest zips in Alaska, and the G2 is the fastest in the state. You’ll get the most amazing minute or so of sight-seeing you’ve ever had, gliding up to a half mile near the Matanuska River, and into the forested area around Matanuska Glacier.
Jetboat & Riverboat Tours View All
Get hands-on and up close as you learn about local animals, trappers, and the Dena’ina Indians, with the wilderness as your classroom. Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures makes it possible with their jet boat adventures on the Susitna, Talkeetna and Chulitna Rivers. For some visitors, this exploration will be their deepest immersion into the Alaskan wilderness — something you just can’t get from a flightseeing tour, a cruise, or a car.
Snowmobiling Tours View All
Owners Matti and Dan cannot think of a better way to appreciate Alaska than sharing it with others. Matti was born and raised in Palmer, Alaska and has been on snowmachines most of her life. Alaska Backcountry Adventures offers “mild to wild” experiences and prides itself on providing a customized experience for all levels of ability. It offers the widest variety of expeditions on the latest and greatest equipment.
Hop aboard an eco-friendly snowmobile in Girdwood and ride on groomed trails beneath massive, 7,000-foot glaciated peaks or visit the dazzling blue ice of Spencer Glacier. Or, head north of Anchorage for a trail ride through mid-alpine black spruce forests. No experience necessary, all gear provided, and warm beverages and snacks included.
Join Hatcher Pass ATV Tours in Willow for an unforgettable Alaskan winter adventure. Climb into a heated UTV with snow tracks for a 2.5‑hour scenic tour through the Talkeetna Mountains, offered at sunrise and sunset. With options for beginners and seasoned riders, these guided tours promise warmth, safety, and the stunning beauty of Alaska’s winter landscape.
Feel the thrill of exploring the Alaskan wilderness while driving your own snowmobile over the tundra, looking for wildlife and taking in amazing views. And on a clear day you’ll get an amazing view of Denali.
Scenic Day Drives View All
In the Talkeetna Mountains between the towns of Willow and Palmer, Hatcher Pass is a local favorite for recreation or a scenic drive. Hike in alpine tundra dotted with wildflowers and ptarmigan, ski fresh, deep powder, or visit Independence Mine Historical State Park.
Wildlife Parks View All
The folks at this non-profit farm outside Palmer were doing sustainable agriculture long before it was cool before most people used such a term. Located 45 minutes from Anchorage, the Musk Ox Farm provides a fascinating look at the animal reintroduced to Alaska in the 1930s.
In the agricultural Matanuska Valley just north of Anchorage, you can pet a reindeer or feed fresh willow to a bull moose. Set on a 200-acre plot in Palmer, the Reindeer Farm has been in the Williams family for three generations. During the one-hour tour, you’ll hear interesting, funny, and insightful stories about these wild animals while walking around the property. If you want to see the baby reindeer, come in June!
Visitor Information Centers View All
Museums & Cultural Centers View All
Fairs & Festivals View All
For more than 75 years, the Alaska State Fair has an end-of-summer extravaganza with rides, food, and more, held each August in Palmer.
Points of Interest View All
In the Talkeetna Mountains between the towns of Willow and Palmer, Hatcher Pass is a local favorite for recreation or a scenic drive. Hike in alpine tundra dotted with wildflowers and ptarmigan, ski fresh, deep powder, or visit Independence Mine Historical State Park.
Visible outside the windows of the Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau, this state wildlife refuge is the result of the 1964 earthquake. Literally overnight, the land dropped by 6 to 20 feet; hay fields and pastureland became salt flats and marshland. Once home to cows and grains, the land is now prime habitat for moose, birds, and fish. Some 20,000 acres are protected in the refuge, which is a popular recreation and wildlife-viewing… ...more
In Summer (May — September), The Denali Star Train services Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks. In Winter (October — April) the Aurora Winter Train operates as a flag top train between Anchorage and Fairbanks. It stops here heading North on Saturday, and South on Sunday.
Where else can you walk to the end of Main Street and find yourself at the confluence of three wild rivers, overlooking a 20,000-foot peak? Close to downtown, this large, river-centered park offers wide open, untouched spaces, along with great panoramic view of the Alaska Range.
Some 15,000 years ago, this glacier reached another 50 miles west to the Palmer area. It now has a four-mile wide towering face that you can walk right up to and touch. Keep an eye out for summertime ice-climbers at this most impressive roadside glacier. Directions: Head north from Anchorage on the Glenn Highway. At mile 102, you can drive down to Glacier Park (888−253−4480), then hike 15 – 20 minutes to the face of glacier.Distance: 102 miles ...more
Sample delicious syrup and sweets made from birch trees at Kahiltna Birchworks in Talkeetna — the world’s largest producer of birch syrup. Stop in to shop, or for a tour of the facility at mile 1.1 of the Talkeetna Spur Rd, just off the Parks Highway. You’ll also find Alaskan food products (many wild harvested), botanicals, and functional art like pottery, tiles, birch bark and wood crafts. Products are also available online.
Historic Parks & Sites View All
Kayaking Tours View All
Glide between glaciers on a serene river journey, surrounded by Alaska's snow-capped mountains and untamed nature