Delta Junction Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay, and explore in Delta Junction. Learn about the local culture, customs, do's and don'ts, safety, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Delta Junction

Delta Junction, located in the Interior region of Alaska, is a charming small town that offers a unique experience to travelers seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. It is known for being the end of the Alaska Highway, which stretches all the way from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, covering 1,387 miles. In addition to its historical significance, Delta Junction offers a plethora of natural attractions, museums, and activities that cater to visitors of all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Delta Junction

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Delta Junction is home to several museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history and heritage. The following are some of the top attractions:

  • Big Delta State Historical Park: This park features restored buildings that date back to the time of the Gold Rush in the late 1800s. Visitors can explore a log cabin, a blacksmith shop, and a roadhouse.
  • Rika’s Roadhouse and Historic Lodge: This historic lodge, built in 1910, offers lodging, dining, and events while allowing visitors to explore the history of the area.
  • Delta Junction Visitor Center: This center provides information on local attractions, events, and resources for visitors.

Natural Attractions of Delta Junction: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Delta Junction is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The following are some of the top outdoor attractions:

  • Delta Junction State Recreation Area: This area offers camping, hiking, fishing, and bird watching opportunities.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Delta Junction is home to a wide range of wildlife such as moose, caribou, bears, wolves, and birds. Visitors can observe and photograph them in their natural habitats.
  • Donnelly Dome Trail: This trail offers a challenging hike of 10.5 miles round trip, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Delta Junction

Delta Junction offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of experience. The following are some of the most popular routes:

  • Black Rapids Glacier Trail: This trail is a 10-mile hike that takes visitors to the stunning Black Rapids Glacier.
  • Donnelly Creek Trail: This trail is a 6-mile round trip hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
  • Granite Tors Trail: This trail is a 12-mile round trip hike that takes visitors through breathtaking rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Delta Junction: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Delta Junction offers a wide range of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. The following are some of the best things to do:

  • Alaska Range Air: This tour offers visitors an aerial view of the stunning landscapes of Delta Junction and the surrounding areas.
  • Boondocks Bar and Grill: This popular restaurant offers live music, pool tables, karaoke, and a friendly atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy.
  • Paxson Alpine Tours: This tour company offers visitors the chance to explore the Denali Highway, one of the most scenic drives in Alaska.

Week-Long Itinerary for Delta Junction

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Delta Junction:

Day 1: Visit the Delta Junction State Recreation Area and hike the Donnelly Dome Trail. Day 2: Explore the Big Delta State Historical Park and Rika’s Roadhouse and Historic Lodge. Day 3: Go fishing or hunting in the surrounding areas. Day 4: Take an aerial tour with Alaska Range Air and enjoy the stunning views. Day 5: Hike the Granite Tors Trail and enjoy a picnic at the top. Day 6: Visit Paxson Alpine Tours and explore the Denali Highway. Day 7: Relax with some live music and good food at Boondocks Bar and Grill.

Food and Drink Scene of Delta Junction

Must-Try Dishes

Delta Junction offers a range of cuisine options for visitors to explore. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Wild Alaskan Salmon: This dish is a staple in Delta Junction and is served in many local restaurants.
  • Reindeer Sausage: This dish offers a unique taste of Alaska and can be found in many local food trucks.
  • Blueberry Pie: This dessert is made from wild blueberries picked from the surrounding forests and is a delicious treat.

Local Beverages

Delta Junction is home to several breweries and distilleries that offer locally made beverages. The following are some of the best:

  • Delta Distillery: This distillery offers a variety of handcrafted spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and gin.
  • Black Spruce Brewing Company: This brewery offers a range of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
  • Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Co.: This brewery offers award-winning beer and a restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced food.

Where to Stay in Delta Junction: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Delta Junction offers several options for lodging, catering to all budgets and tastes. The following are some of the best places to stay:

  • Dome House Bed and Breakfast: This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, delicious breakfast, and a beautiful garden.
  • Alaskan Steakhouse and Motel: This family-friendly motel offers simple rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a steakhouse on site.
  • Fuel Stop RV Park: This park offers RV and camping spots with full hookup services, restrooms, and showers.

What to Buy in Delta Junction: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Delta Junction can bring home a range of unique souvenirs and local products that reflect the town’s culture and heritage. The following are some of the best places to shop:

  • The Patch: This gift shop offers a variety of locally made crafts, souvenirs, and Alaskan apparel.
  • Delta Meat and Sausage Co.: This shop offers a range of locally made meat products, including sausages, caribou jerky, and smoked salmon.
  • Ross’s Gold: This gift shop and jewelry store offers beautiful pieces made from gold nuggets and other natural materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Delta Junction

Delta Junction is a town steeped in history and culture, and visitors are advised to respect the local customs and traditions. Some of the unique cultural aspects include:

  • The Alaskan Pioneer’s Cabin: This annual event honors the town’s rich history and offers visitors the chance to experience traditional Alaskan culture.
  • The Tanana Valley State Fair: This fair, held in August, is a celebration of agriculture, arts, and culture and offers visitors a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy live music, fair rides, and food vendors.

Best Time to Visit Delta Junction

The best time to visit Delta Junction is during the summer months, between May and September when the weather is warmer, the days are longer, and most of the outdoor attractions are open. However, visitors should be aware that the weather can be unpredictable, and they should pack warm clothing and rain gear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Delta Junction

Do:

  • Respect the Wildlife: Visitors should maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and never feed them.
  • Be Prepared: Visitors should be prepared for the weather and bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Explore the Local Culture: Visitors should take the time to learn about the local history and culture and participate in events and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Leave Trash: Visitors should not litter or leave trash in the outdoors and should follow the leave-no-trace principles.
  • Trespass on Private Property: Visitors should not trespass on private property without permission.
  • Underestimate the Weather: Visitors should not underestimate the weather, as it can change quickly and be dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Delta Junction

Delta Junction is generally a safe town, but visitors should take caution when engaging in outdoor activities or driving long distances. The following are some safety tips:

  • Stay on Marked Trails: Visitors should stick to marked trails and avoid going off-road or into dangerous areas.
  • Drive Carefully: Visitors should drive carefully on unpaved roads and be aware of wildlife crossings.
  • Carry Bear Spray: Visitors should carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of an encounter with a bear.

Health in Delta Junction

Visitors to Delta Junction should be prepared for the remote location and limited access to medical facilities. The following are some health tips:

  • Stay Hydrated: Visitors should carry enough water and drink plenty of fluids to combat the dry climate.
  • Bring Medications: Visitors should bring enough medications and prescriptions to last the duration of their trip.
  • Pack a First Aid Kit: Visitors should pack a first aid kit with basic supplies for minor injuries.

Getting to Delta Junction: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Delta Junction

The closest major airport to Delta Junction is Fairbanks International Airport, which is about 100 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Delta Junction

Greyhound and other bus companies do not offer service to Delta Junction. However, there are several shuttle and tour companies that offer transportation options to and from Delta Junction.

Other Options

Visitors can rent a car in Fairbanks and take the Alaska Highway to Delta Junction. There are also options for charter flights and private transportation.

How to Get Around in Delta Junction

The most common transportation options in Delta Junction are personal cars, bikes, and walking. Some tours and shuttle companies also offer transportation services.

Where to Go Next from Delta Junction: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Delta Junction can continue their Alaska adventure by visiting nearby destinations such as:

  • Denali National Park: This park, located about 150 miles south of Delta Junction, is home to Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, and offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Fairbanks: This city, located about 100 miles away, offers a range of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic sites.
  • Valdez: This coastal town, located about 450 miles south, is known for its stunning glaciers, fjords, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Delta Junction offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature that appeals to a wide range of visitors. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, cultural attractions, or local cuisine, Delta Junction has something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead, pack accordingly, and respect the local customs and traditions for a memorable trip to this beautiful town in the heart of Alaska.

Sign marking the terminus of the Alaska-Canada highay, also known as “The Alcan.” Sign marking the terminus of the Alaska-Canada highay, also known as “The Alcan.” Caribu spotted just south of Delta Junction Caribu spotted just south of Delta Junction Buried section of pipeline as it crosses the highway south of Delta Junction Buried section of pipeline as it crosses the highway south of Delta Junction