Overview
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River is a stunning and remote destination located in eastern Alaska, offering a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. As one of the most pristine and untouched rivers in the state, it provides an unparalleled opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the authentic beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. The river stretches for approximately 392 miles, from its source in the Fortymile River valley to its confluence with the Yukon River, and is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by rolling hills, towering mountains, and vast tundras.
This river is not only a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers but also holds significant historical and cultural importance, with evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years. The Fortymile River has been designated as a Wild and Scenic River since 1980, recognizing its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an immersive Alaskan experience.
Getting There & Access
To access the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River, visitors can fly into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) or Tok Junction Airport (TKJ), which are the closest major airports. From there, they can rent a car or book a shuttle service to reach the river. The nearest town is Chicken, Alaska, which is situated about 60 miles south of the river and offers basic amenities, including lodging, food, and fuel.
For those planning to explore the river by boat, the most common put-in points are at the towns of Chicken and Eagle, Alaska. The GPS coordinates for these points are: Chicken – 64.0753° N, 141.9333° W, and Eagle – 64.7833° N, 141.1333° W. It is essential to note that the road conditions can be challenging, especially during the spring and fall, and visitors should be prepared for potential delays or closures.
Alternatively, visitors can also access the river via floatplane, which can be arranged through local air taxi services. This option provides a unique and scenic way to experience the river, but it can be more expensive than driving or shuttling.
Transportation Options
- Car rental: Available at Fairbanks International Airport and Tok Junction Airport
- Shuttle services: Offered by local companies, including Alaska Shuttle Service and Fortymile River Shuttle
- Floatplane: Arranged through local air taxi services, such as Alaska Air Taxi and Fortymile Air
- Boat: Visitors can bring their own boat or rent one from local outfitters, such as Fortymile River Outfitters
What to Expect
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River offers a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems, from boreal forests to tundras and mountains. The river itself is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, which are home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, grayling, and char. Visitors can expect to see an abundance of wildlife, including moose, caribou, bears, and eagles, as well as a wide range of bird species.
The terrain surrounding the river is generally rugged, with steep hills and mountains, and the climate can be harsh, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. However, during the summer months, the river valley is filled with wildflowers, and the surrounding hills are covered in a lush layer of green vegetation.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The river is also home to several scenic tributaries, including the South Fork and the North Fork, which offer additional opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Terrain and Scenery
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River is situated in a remote and rugged region of Alaska, with a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems. The river itself is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, which are surrounded by rolling hills, towering mountains, and vast tundras. The terrain is generally steep and rocky, with numerous rapids and waterfalls, making it a challenging but rewarding destination for boaters and kayakers.
The surrounding hills and mountains are covered in a lush layer of vegetation, including boreal forests, tundras, and wildflowers. The climate is harsh, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers, but during the summer months, the river valley is filled with a vibrant array of colors and sounds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River depends on the activities and experiences that visitors are looking for. The summer months (June to August) are the warmest and driest, making it an ideal time for hiking, camping, and fishing. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and visitors can expect to encounter more people and higher prices.
The spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are also great times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and visitors should be prepared for potential rain and wind. The winter months (November to March) are the coldest and darkest, but offer a unique and serene experience, with opportunities for dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
It is essential to note that the daylight hours vary significantly throughout the year, with up to 20 hours of daylight in the summer and as little as 4 hours in the winter. Visitors should plan their itinerary accordingly and be prepared for the changing light conditions.
Weather Considerations
- Summer: Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C)
- Spring: Mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C)
- Fall: Cool, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C)
- Winter: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -20°F to 0°F (-29°C to -18°C)
Essential Gear & Preparation
Visitors to the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River should be well-prepared and equipped with the necessary gear and clothing. The following items are essential:
- Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
- Waterproof clothing and gear
- Insulated and warm clothing for cold weather
- Sleeping bag and pad for camping
- Fishing gear and license (if applicable)
- First aid kit and emergency shelter
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Bear spray and bear-resistant containers (if camping)
It is also essential to bring a sufficient supply of food, water, and fuel, as well as a means of communication, such as a satellite phone or two-way radio. Visitors should be prepared for emergencies and know how to use their gear and equipment properly.
Clothing and Gear
Visitors should dress in layers, with a base layer of moisture-wicking clothing, a mid-layer of insulating clothing, and a waterproof outer layer. They should also bring a warm hat, gloves, and scarf, as well as sturdy hiking boots or shoes. It is essential to have a good quality sleeping bag and pad for camping, as well as a waterproof tent and gear.
Visitors should also bring a first aid kit and emergency shelter, as well as a means of starting a fire, such as a lighter or matches. A map and compass or GPS device are essential for navigation, and visitors should know how to use them properly.
Wildlife & Safety
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and eagles. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife. The following tips are essential:
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals
- Keep a clean campsite and store food and trash properly
- Be aware of bear signs, such as tracks or scat
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Avoid hiking alone or at night
Visitors should also be prepared for emergencies, such as inclement weather or injuries, and know how to respond. It is essential to have a means of communication, such as a satellite phone or two-way radio, and to know how to use it properly.
Bear Safety
Bears are common in the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River area, and visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid encounters. The following tips are essential:
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears
- Keep a clean campsite and store food and trash properly
- Be aware of bear signs, such as tracks or scat
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Avoid hiking alone or at night
Visitors should also be prepared for bear encounters and know how to respond. It is essential to stay calm and follow the proper procedures, such as speaking in a calm voice and backing away slowly.
History & Background
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years. The river was an important transportation route for indigenous peoples, including the Han and the Gwich’in, who used it to travel and trade. The river was also an important source of food, with abundant fish and game.
The name “Fortymile” comes from the river’s distance from the Yukon River, which is approximately 40 miles. The river was also known as the “Forty Mile River” or the “Quarante Milles River” in French. The river has been designated as a Wild and Scenic River since 1980, recognizing its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values.
Indigenous Heritage
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River is situated in the traditional territory of the Han and the Gwich’in, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The river was an important part of their culture and way of life, providing food, transportation, and spiritual significance. Visitors can learn about the indigenous heritage of the area by visiting the Fortymile National Historic Site, which is located near the town of Eagle, Alaska.
Tips from Locals
Locals and experienced visitors to the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River offer the following tips and advice:
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential delays
- Bring a sufficient supply of food, water, and fuel
- Know how to use your gear and equipment properly
- Respect the environment and wildlife, and follow the principles of Leave No Trace
- Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife
Visitors should also be prepared for emergencies and know how to respond. It is essential to have a means of communication, such as a satellite phone or two-way radio, and to know how to use it properly.
Hidden Gems
Experienced visitors to the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River recommend the following hidden gems:
- The South Fork of the river, which offers stunning scenery and abundant wildlife
- The North Fork of the river, which provides a more remote and challenging experience
- The Fortymile National Historic Site, which offers insight into the indigenous heritage of the area
Visitors should also be aware of the potential hazards and challenges of the area, including steep terrain, inclement weather, and encounters with wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
The Fortymile Wild & Scenic River is situated in a remote and rugged region of Alaska, but there are several nearby attractions that visitors may want to explore. These include:
- The Taylor Highway, which offers stunning scenery and access to several hiking trails and campsites
- The Eagle Historic District, which provides insight into the history and culture of the area
- The Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, which offers a unique and remote wilderness experience
Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential delays, and should bring a sufficient supply of food, water, and fuel.
Planning Resources
Visitors to the Fortymile Wild & Scenic River should plan carefully and be prepared for the challenges and hazards of the area. The following resources are available to help with planning:
- The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which manages the river and surrounding lands
- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which provides information on wildlife and habitat
- The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, which offers information on recreation and conservation
Visitors should also check the weather forecast and river levels before embarking on their trip, and should be prepared for changing conditions and potential delays.
For more information, visitors can contact the Bureau of Land Management at (907) 474-2200 or visit their website at https://www.blm.gov/. Visitors can also contact the Alaska Department of Natural Resources at (907) 269-8400 or visit their website at https://dnr.alaska.gov/.