Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Talkeetna, AK

  • Published 2022/09/19

Talkeetna is a small, idyllic village located in Southcentral Alaska.

But what this town lacks in size, it more than makes up for with its abundant natural beauty.

Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Talkeetna is everything you’d want in a quiet holiday.

This beautiful village has a lot to offer, with an incredible mix of heritage, picturesque landscapes, charming storefronts, and delectable food options.

These are the best things to do in Talkeetna, Alaska:

Visit the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum

If you are a history buff, you must visit the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum on D Street.

Housed in a former schoolhouse, the old building was converted into a historical society in 1972.

This museum is filled with old artifacts and photographs that bring the village’s history to life.

It also has a model of the Alaskan mountain range and tells the story of the first climbers of Denali National Park.

Visiting the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum will surely help you understand Talkeetna’s rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a Denali Flightseeing Tour

The plane of Denali Tour

Juno Kim / Shutterstock.com

Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, is the third highest peak in the world.

A must-see in Talkeetna, this magnificent mountain range looks like something right out of a postcard.

You can explore this area in your own vehicle or even on foot.

The view of Denali mountain from Denali Flightseeing Tour

Travel Mixtape / Shutterstock.com

However, the best way to see it must be the Denali Flightseeing Tour, which allows you to soar above pristine snow-capped mountains in a small plane or helicopter for an entire hour.

If you visit Talkeetna in summer, you could even opt for services that allow glacier landings for an unforgettable experience walking on snow.

The Denali Flightseeing Tour is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss.

Ride the Hurricane Turn Train

Daytime view of the Hurricane Turn Train

Kolmkolm, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

To catch a glimpse of Talkeetna’s simple and unique Alaskan lifestyle, you should consider riding the Hurricane Turn Train.

Used to connect the remote parts of this country to the outside, this local train runs between Talkeetna and Hurricane every day.

What’s interesting is that passengers can simply wave a flag from wherever they want to be picked up, and the conductor stops the train.

Enjoy views of the vast forest landscapes, clear waters of the Indian River, and the occasional glimpse of the Denali on a clear day.

The train crew narrates all this, making the Hurricane Turn Train one of Halkeetna’s top tourist attractions.

Go Fishing in the Susitna River

Sunset reflecting on Susitna River

Venkata abhilash babu / Shutterstock.com

Fishing in the Susitna River is a popular attraction in Talkeetna, especially in the summer.

If you are traveling with kids, this is an activity you really should not miss.

People near the waters of Susitna River

Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock.com

The pristine, clear waters set against the backdrop of tall, snow-covered mountains make for a lovely, quiet picnic spot with your family or partner.

As the Susitna River is home to various species of salmon, you will surely catch fresh bait for your next meal while enjoying the quiet and solitude of fishing.

Aerial view of Susitna River

FloridaStock / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy Various Water Sports on Talkeetna’s Rivers

White water rafting in Talkeetna lake

Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock.com

As the village is located at the confluence of three major rivers, it is unsurprising that Talkeetna has various water sports activities to choose from.

Whether you prefer a simple boat ride or something more adventurous like white-water rafting, the village doesn’t disappoint.

Apart from the thrill of these activities, scenes of beautiful canyons, pristine beaches, picturesque mountain landscapes, and wildlife make the experiences even more unforgettable.

Visit Talkeetna Lakes Park

Canoe at Talkeetna Lakes Park

David_Pastyka / Shutterstock.com

Talkeetna Lakes Park is spread over 1,040 acres of land and is home to six beautiful lakes.

It offers a great way to experience a taste of the true Alaskan wilderness, thanks to the surrounding forests and quiet lakefronts.

The park is also home to bears, moose, and foxes, along with over 100 species of native migratory birds.

You could explore this beautiful location with a walking trail of 3.5 miles, with various stops for fishing, mountain biking, boating, and snowshoeing.

Talkeetna Lakes Park is located along Comsat Road.

Walk along the Famous Main Street

Shops in Talkeetna Main Street

Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock.com

Talkeetna’s Main Street is a two-block street with cute cafes, art shops, tiny restaurants, and microbreweries.

Walking along this road is the perfect way to experience daily life in this small town.

It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, Alaskan art, and other trinkets.

If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, there’s a good chance of catching glimpses of the majestic Denali while walking along Main Street.

Book a Stay at the Talkeetna Roadhouse

Signage of Talkeetna Roadhouse

mazaletel, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Don’t forget to make a stop at the historical Talkeetna Roadhouse, which dates way back to 1917.

You don’t want to miss the mouth-watering sourdough starter pancakes and some homemade pies and cinnamon rolls available throughout the day.

A person at Talkeetna Roadhouse outdoor dining setup

Tracey Mendenhall Porreca / Shutterstock.com

The large round tables are the perfect conversation starters with locals, mountaineers, and other tourists.

The Talkeetna Roadhouse is located on East Main Street.

Exterior of the Talkeetna Roadhouse

Claudiovidri / Shutterstock.com

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping with Denali Zipline Tours

Denali Zipline Tours offers the perfect way to indulge the adventurer in you.

This three-hour course spreads across nine individual zips and is a great way to pump up your adrenaline levels while taking in the Alaskan natural beauty.

This activity is organized by local guides, who also provide information about the area.

The zip lines will take you through lush forest birch, cottonwood, and spruce treetops.

Additionally, the breathtaking views of Denali, Ruth Glacier, Susitna, and Chultina River Valleys will make this day trip an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

You can find Denali Zipline Tours on East 2nd Street.

Enjoy the Views at Talkeetna Riverfront Park

Talkeetna Riverfront Park is located at the confluence of the three rivers, Susitna, Talkeetna, and Chulitna.

It’s surrounded by the Alaska Range and offers stunning views of the Denali, Hunter, and Foraker peaks.

If you are visiting Talkeetna with your partner, Talkeetna Riverfront Park is the perfect place for a romantic stroll.

Boating, campfires, and rafting are some other activities that you can try at this beautiful park.

Admire Photos of the Northern Lights at Aurora Dora

Located on Talkeetna Spur Road, Aurora Dora is a popular gallery dedicated to the Brazilian photographer Dora Redman.

This gallery features photographs of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights as captured by Dora on her personal journey.

The breathtaking photographs look extremely lifelike and spectacular, and this gallery would surely make you fall in love with this nature’s wonder.

The artist herself is most often found to be at Aurora Dora.

If you are lucky, you can even talk with her about her passion for capturing the Northern Lights.

She is an absolute delight to speak with.

Go Hiking in the Wilderness

Hiking in Talkeetna

DCrane / Shutterstock.com

With abundant nature surrounding Talkeetna, it offers the perfect excuse to go on several hikes.

From romantic strolls along the beautiful lakefronts to full-blown mountain hikes, this village has something for every type of hiker.

A hiker walking down a rocky trail at Talkeetna

DCrane / Shutterstock.com

Along with breathtaking views of the Alaska Range, most of these trails are a great opportunity to spot local wildlife, plants, and native culture.

Depending on your preference, you could walk along Main Street, cross the 300-year-old railroad bridge, or simply hike up one of the area’s smaller peaks.

Explore Denali National Park & Preserve

Bus in Denali National Park

Robbert Bouwsma / Shutterstock.com

The vast Denali National Park & Preserve spans six million acres.

You can drive your car for the first 15 miles, after which you’ll have to hop onto a park bus, should you want to explore further.

Welcome sign of Denali National Park & Preserve

Warewardson / Shutterstock.com

The best part about riding on the bus is that you can ask the driver to stop anywhere and then explore the area on foot.

Scenic view of Denali National Park & Preserve

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

This is a great way to spend some quiet time in the lap of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Denali National Park & Preserve is located on Parks Highway.

A reindeer at Denali National Park & Preserve

Michal Sarauer / Shutterstock.com

Try the Delicious Menu at Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe

If you want a taste of Alaskan food prepared using locally grown ingredients, you must have a meal or two at Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe on Talkeetna Spur Road.

Operated by renowned pastry chef Anita Golton, this bakery has scrumptious offerings of homemade soups, grilled sandwiches, and pizzas.

Their menu items are made with local produce like berries, barley, birch syrup, and zucchini, to name a few.

Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe also offers a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Browse through Beautiful Local Crafts at the Dancing Leaf Gallery

Located on East Main Street, the Dancing Leaf Gallery promotes local Alaskan art and is one of the village’s top galleries.

Visiting this place is an ideal way to spend a couple of hours looking at the exhibits of over 150 talented local artists.

This gallery supports local cottage industry artisans involved in various mediums.

The Dancing Leaf Gallery is the perfect place to appreciate everything from local talents in textile, photography, basket weaving, painting, jewelry, and so much more.

Explore truly Alaskan-made products in this one-of-a-kind local art gallery in Talkeetna.

Sample the Beers at Denali Brewing Company

No trip is complete without having a drink or two at a local pub, right?

Located on Talkeetna Spur Road, Denali Brewing Company comprises a microbrewery, taproom, and brewpub.

This brewery follows sustainable brewing practices and uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

It’s also one of the few restaurants in Alaska open all year round.

Denali Brewing Company’s most famous drinks are Chuli Stout, Twister Creek IPA, Single Engine, and Mother Blonde Ale.

Savor the Flavors of Mountain High Pizza Pie

Exterior of Mountain High Pizza Pie

Jon Konrath from Oakland, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Eating local delicacies is a great way to enjoy your holiday and get better acquainted with a place’s culture.

Mountain High Pizza Pie, located on Main Street, was started by the Basilone family.

This casual restaurant is popular for its signature hand-tossed pizza pies.

The pizzas feature unique toppings of reindeer sausage, Kalamata olives, and tzatziki.

Mountain High Pizza Pie is also a great place to have a hearty Mediterranean meal of hummus, dolma, and Italian flat-bread sandwiches.

The restaurant hosts several live music events occasionally.

Have a Satisfying Meal at the West Rib Pub & Grill

Signage at West Rib Pub and Grill

Brian Biggs, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For a typical American meal, visit the West Rib Pub & Grill on East Main Street.

This restaurant is quite a popular pit stop for mountaineers before moving on to the summit of Denali Mountain.

Gorge on a hearty meal of beef and caribou burgers, cheeseburgers, bar-style appetizers, and seafood entrées.

The West Rib Pub & Grill also offers a wide variety of local Alaskan microbrews that you can sip while taking in the beautiful surrounding mountainous landscapes.

Take the Family to Byers Lake Campground

The waters of Byers Lake

Rick Jennings / Shutterstock.com

If you are visiting with family or have kids traveling with you, make sure to visit Byers Lake Campground.

This family-friendly campsite is near the bottom of Kesugi Ridge and is surrounded by breathtaking views of Denali Mountain.

For a bit more adventure, you can go canoeing or kayak fishing to catch rainbow trout, a local delicacy.

If you visit during the summer, you can spend the night at one of the public-use cabins, where you can wake up to stunning views of the lake and the Denali peak.

Byers Lake Campground is located along Parks Highway.

Embark on an Adventure at Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station

Stop by Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station in Denali National Park’s southern area to get permits and mountain directions.

The station is named after Walter Harper, an Alaska Native and the first person to reach the pinnacle of Denali Mountain, North America’s highest peak.

It’s also popular with visitors who aren’t interested in climbing, thanks to its historical displays on mountaineering equipment.

Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station features 30-minute documentary film screenings about those who have conquered Mount Rainier.

Interpretive programs geared toward families are also available throughout the summer months.

Taste Birch Syrup at Kahiltna Birchworks

Michael East and his wife started Kahiltna Birchworks to produce their signature product, Kahiltna Gold Birch Syrup.

In 1990, the pair began tapping birch trees and bottling the sap as a business.

They tap more than 11,000 trees annually, making them the world’s largest commercial birch syrup business.

In 2010, the firm opened a manufacturing facility in Talkeetna called Taste and Tour to feature Kahiltna Birchworks and Alaska Wild Harvest, LLC.

The facility offers a wide selection of snacks, baked products, and locally roasted coffee, aside from syrups, flavored birch waters, and Alaska Supreme Ice Cream.

There is a garden where guests can relax and picnic with fresh produce and flowers.

You may also learn about the extraction method and its history in a documentary played on-site.

This attraction is located on Talkeetna Spur Road.

Go Sightseeing with Talkeetna Air Taxi

People approaching a Talkeetna Air Taxi

Claude Huot / Shutterstock.com

Talkeetna Air Taxi takes tourists on thrilling flights over the six-million-acre Denali National Park region.

You may see glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and canyons a mile deep here.

Talkeetna Air Taxi boasts of having more glacier landings than other firms worldwide.

It is famous for being Alaska’s best natural adventure trip operator.

Signage of Talkeetna Air Taxi

KMarsh / Shutterstock.com

Its expert pilots have years of expertise and will tailor each trip to the day’s weather conditions to guarantee you get the most incredible sights.

You may take a flightseeing trip to visit Denali and the surrounding area anytime; you can choose from four tours.

Any flight can include a stop at a glacier, and if you’d like, they can arrange for a helicopter to take you there.

Talkeetna Air Taxi landing at Denali National Park

Zhuo Wang / Shutterstock.com

Have a Stopover at Nagley’s Store

Exterior of Nagley's Store

melissamn / Shutterstock.com

Horace Negley established the first Nagley’s Store in the Talkeetna area around the beginning of the 20th century.

This shop dates back to 1921 and is the oldest continually functioning general store in the Northern Sustina Valley.

This landmark general store has been saved as part of the Fairview Gold Mining District and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Building sign of Nagley's Store

melissamn / Shutterstock.com

In the 1990s, a fire destroyed much of the store, but the community rallied together to rebuild it from scratch.

Kaladi Brothers coffees, ice cream, and a wide selection of sandwiches, snacks, and sodas remain popular items sold here today.

Nagley’s Store is located on East Main Street.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Pay Your Respects at the Alaskan War Veterans Memorial

Daytime view of the Alaskan War Veterans Memorial

stellamc / Shutterstock.com

An hour away from Talkeetna, the Alaskan War Veterans Memorial honors Alaska’s rich history.

It was built in 1983 and is located inside Denali State Park.

Sculpture at Alaskan War Veterans Memorial

stellamc / Shutterstock.com

The five 20-foot concrete panels set in a semi-circle each honor the state’s defense: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast, Alaska National Guard, and Merchant Marine veterans.

The Alaskan War Veterans Memorial’s main attractions are the five 20-foot concrete panels set up in a semi-circle to represent each branch of the United States military.

Final Thoughts

Talkeetna may be small, but it packs a punch for tourist attractions and activities.

A community of artists, adventurers, and creatives, it serves as a starting point for mountaineers attempting to scale Denali, the tallest peak in North America.

To have a true Alaskan adventure, try this list of the best things to do in Talkeetna, Alaska.

© All rights reserved.