We'll launch at the Nordale Boat Launch and head upstream on the Chena River by jet boat. The first few miles offer a glimpse of rural Alaska before the homes disappear and you're surrounded by the wilderness of Interior Alaska. Once we reach the Chena River Flood Control Dam, we'll shut off the main engine and switch to a quiet electric trolling motor, and gently drift downstream.
As we drift, ask me about the history of the Chena River, the founding of Fairbanks, and the stories of the pioneers, riverboats, and the gold rush that helped shape Interior Alaska. if you want to cast a line and fish for some arctic grayling, we can do that too, if you purchase a valid fishing license.
This stretch of the Chena River is prime wildlife habitat. It's common to see moose, beavers, the occasional porcupine, and birds such as bald eagles, owls, ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, we encounter animals on many of our trips.
The best way to find the meeting point is to search Nordale RD Chena River Boat launch in any search engine. The boat launch is located just alongside the Chena River bridge off of Nordale Rd in North Pole, Alaska.
As part of your journey on the Chena River, we’ll cruise beneath the Chena River Dam, a unique highlight of the trip. Built in 1979 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam was designed for flood control to protect Fairbanks and surrounding areas from seasonal high water. Passing underneath this massive structure offers a one-of-a-kind perspective and a chance to experience an important piece of Interior Alaska’s history up close.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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