Eagle River Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Eagle River, Alaska. Plan your week-long itinerary with our comprehensive travel guide. Read on for more.


Introduction to Eagle River

Nestled in the heart of Southcentral Alaska, surrounded by rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes, Eagle River is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its diverse range of outdoor activities, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery, this charming community is the perfect destination for those seeking an Alaskan adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Eagle River

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Eagle River is steeped in history, and there are several museums and historical places to visit.

  • Alaska Native Heritage Center is the perfect place to learn more about Alaska’s indigenous cultures. Here, you will discover the traditional practices and beliefs of Alaska’s indigenous communities through art, dance, and storytelling.
  • The Eagle River Historical Society Museum and Visitor Center offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Alaska’s earliest settlers. The museum displays artifacts and photographs that tell the story of the local community from the early 1900s to the present day.

Natural Attractions of Eagle River: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Eagle River is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with an abundance of natural attractions to explore.

  • Chugach State Park is one of the largest state parks in the United States, covering over half a million acres of land. It offers visitors extensive hiking trails, stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and opportunities to glimpse wildlife such as brown bears, moose, and mountain goats.
  • Eklutna Lake is a glacier-fed lake surrounded by rugged mountains. Visitors can kayak, paddleboard, swim, or fish in the clean and clear waters or hike around the lake on one of the many trails that vary in difficulty.
  • Thunderbird Falls is a 200-foot waterfall in Chugach State Park. The trail to the falls is an easy 1.5-mile hike through the beautiful Alaskan forest, offering an opportunity to spot wildlife such as black bears, eagles, and moose.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eagle River

Hiking and biking are incredibly popular activities in Eagle River, and visitors have numerous options to choose from.

  • Crow Pass Trail is an 24-mile, challenging trail that winds through the dense forest, steep ridges, and rugged mountains, offering spectacular views of glaciers, waterfalls, and other natural wonders.
  • Mount Baldy Trail is a popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Baldy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Eagle River Valley below.
  • Eagle River Nature Center Trail is a moderate 3-mile trail that is perfect for families. Along the way, visitors can see the beautiful flora and fauna of the area, enjoy vistas of the Chugach Mountains, and even spot a moose or two.

Best Things to Do in Eagle River: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Eagle River, from exploring the natural wonders of Alaska to experiencing local culture and traditions.

  • Photography Tours are an incredible way to capture the stunning beauty of Eagle River. Professional photographers offer award-winning tours, taking visitors to the most picturesque locations and teaching them how to capture the perfect shot.
  • Glacier Exploring is a must-do activity in Eagle River. Visitors can take a helicopter tour of nearby glaciers and land atop them, trek through ice caves, or even go dog sledding.
  • Salmon Fishing is a popular activity in Eagle River. Visitors can learn how to fly fish and catch salmon, a tradition dating back centuries in Alaska.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eagle River

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for those visiting Eagle River.

Day Activity
1 Explore the Eagle River Nature Center Trail
2 Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center
3 Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Eklutna Lake
4 Take a helicopter tour of the glaciers
5 Go salmon fishing
6 Hike the Crow Pass Trail
7 Relax at the Thunderbird Falls before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Eagle River

Must-Try Dishes

Eagle River has a vibrant culinary scene, and its local flavor is reflected in its cuisine.

  • Halibut is a must-try dish in Eagle River. Cooked to perfection, halibut is one of Alaska’s most famous and delectable dishes.
  • Salmon is another must-try dish. It can be cooked in many ways, but smoked salmon is a local favorite.
  • Reindeer sausage is another specialty of the area. It’s perfect for breakfast or snack and can be made in a variety of different styles.

Local Beverages

Eagle River has many local breweries and distilleries that produce a wide variety of beverages.

  • Glacier Brewhouse is a popular spot that produces an array of microbrews.
  • 10th & M Seafoods has an impressive selection of Alaskan beers and wines.
  • Alaska Distillery crafts premium spirits utilizing locally sourced ingredients from Southcentral Alaska.

Where to Stay in Eagle River: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eagle River offers many accommodation options catering to a variety of budgets and preferences.

  • Alice’s Champagne Palace is a charming bed and breakfast that offers cozy rooms and delicious breakfast and dinner options.
  • Moose Horn Bed and Breakfast is a welcoming guesthouse with spacious rooms and a warm, homely atmosphere.
  • High Ridge Log Cabin Rentals offer rustic log cabin rentals that are perfect for those who want a unique Alaskan experience.

What to Buy in Eagle River: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are many unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Eagle River, including:

  • Alaska Native art and crafts handcrafted by local artists, including beaded jewelry, carvings, and paintings.
  • Birch syrup is a unique and local flavor and is produced from the sap of birch trees.
  • Smoked salmon is a popular product that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in recipes.

Local Culture and Customs of Eagle River

Eagle River values community and traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, including:

  • Sharing stories and experiences is an important aspect of the local culture. Visitors should engage with locals and listen to their stories.
  • Respecting the wildlife is an essential part of the Alaskan culture. Visitors should keep a safe distance from the animals and respect their habitats.
  • Leave No Trace is a critical principle in Eagle River. Visitors should leave the natural environment as they found it.

Best Time to Visit Eagle River

The best time to visit Eagle River is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, the weather is mild and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging between 50 °F and 70 °F. The Alaskan summer also offers extended hours of daylight, providing more opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eagle River

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for the weather and outdoor activities.
  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of a bear encounter.

Don’t:

  • Do not approach wild animals, including bears and moose.
  • Do not litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Do not visit without appropriate clothing and gear for the weather and outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eagle River

Eagle River is a safe and friendly community; however, visitors should be aware of the wildlife and potential hazards that come with outdoor activities.

  • Visitors should carry bear spray and know how to use it.
  • Hikers should avoid hiking alone and stay on marked trails.

Health in Eagle River

Eagle River has adequate health care facilities, including clinics and hospitals. Visitors are advised to bring adequate supplies of essential medicines, and travel insurance is recommended.

Getting to Eagle River: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eagle River

  • Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the closest airport to Eagle River, located approximately 22 miles away from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Eagle River

  • People Mover operates a network of buses and trains that connect Eagle River to Anchorage and surrounding areas.

Other Options

  • Renting a car, taking a taxi, or hiring a private shuttle service are other transportation options to consider.

How to Get Around in Eagle River

Eagle River is a small town, so walking and biking are great options while staying there. However, renting a car is the best option when exploring the surrounding areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Eagle River: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eagle River is an excellent base for exploring other destinations in Alaska.

  • Anchorage is a vibrant city with excellent dining and shopping options. It is approximately 15 miles away from Eagle River.
  • Talkeetna is a quaint town located approximately 100 miles north of Eagle River, offering stunning views of Mt. Denali.

Conclusion

Eagle River is a beautiful destination for those seeking an Alaskan adventure. With its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty, it offers something for everyone. We hope this guide has provided you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Eagle River.