Talkeetna brings out the fun

MAT-SU — For a day trip filled with plenty of fun and activities, pack the car for a trip up the Parks Highway to Talkeetna.

Talkeetna may be a small community, but it offers something for just about everyone. Whether you are looking to catch silver salmon, wanting to shop for local arts and crafts or spend an afternoon exploring local eateries, Talkeetna is the place to be.

“Talkeetna is one of my favorite places to visit because it’s such a neat little town,” said Bonnie Quill, executive director of the Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau.

From a luxury hotel like the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge to many of the quaint inns and bed and breakfasts, you can easily turn a Talkeetna trip into a memorable overnight experience.

For activities, flightseeing is at the top of the list for many visitors, and there are several companies that provide amazing McKinley flight tours based at the Talkeetna Airport. Several operators offer not only flights around McKinley, but also an opportunity to land on a glacier in the Alaska Range. There is plenty more to see and do in addition to flightseeing, however.

Talkeetna’s location at the confluence of three major rivers makes it a boat lover’s paradise. Several tour operators offer aquatic experiences for visitors of all ages — from jet boat safaris up to Devil’s Canyon to gentle scenic floats in rafts, Talkeetna has the water covered. From now until the fall, salmon and trout fishing is good to excellent at Clear Creek, a tributary that flows into the Talkeetna River. If you have a boat, you can access this fishery by yourself. If not, fear not — many businesses offer Clear Creek dropoffs for as low as $50.

Main Street, with its famous “Welcome to Downtown Talkeetna” sign, is a hub of activity, offering an afternoon’s worth of exploration for visitors. Many local artists have their wares in the many shops, and the eclectic blend of shops appeal to just about every visitor.

For a real treat, start your trip to Talkeetna early and stop in at the Talkeetna Roadhouse for one of the best breakfasts around. After a morning of exploring, Denali Brewing Co. and Twister Creek Restaurant provide a great lunch — and a pint of locally brewed ales.

For a complete list of Talkeetna-area businesses and activities, visit the Mat-Su CVB’s Web site at www.alaskavisit.com.

Casey Ressler is the marketing and communications manager at the Mat-Su CVB.