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Located in Interior Alaska, Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve includes 2.5 million acres along the Canadian border, near the communities of Eagle and Circle. The preserve protects 115 miles of the Yukon River and the entire Charley River basin. Best known for its rich Gold Rush history, when thousands of hopeful miners floated the Yukon, staked their claims and prayed for gold, old mining cabins and roadhouses still stand as crumbling remnants of the miners' optimism. Several of these structures have been restored and are available for overnight stays.

In addition to history, the preserve also boasts abundant wildlife, important archeological sites and the Charley Wild River, which has been called one of the most spectacular rivers in Alaska. Adventure-minded visitors come here from all over the world to raft, kayak, canoe, hike, fish and camp. Although certainly a rugged place, expert tour companies run several trips that allow for the skill and comfort level of an array of travelers. The Charley River starts in low mountains and is totally clear, spacious and remote. Then you enter the broad, swift Yukon River that embodies a broad sense of history as you pass old trapper and prospector cabins. In the summer, life along the Yukon River is simple and beautiful. Light is abundant beginning in mid-May. Spectacular thunderstorms can punctuate the day. The riverside is lined with small, mostly Native settlements. Some of the villages serve as bases for backpacking, boating or bird watching excursions, and a handful of wilderness lodges cater to hunters and fishermen.

Activities and Attractions

Rafting the Yukon or Charley rivers is one of the most popular activities in the preserve. Camping, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and exploring historic sites are also popular options. The preserve is a prime breeding ground of the endangered peregrine falcon and calving ground of the Forty-mile Caribou Herd. Winter activities include dog mushing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The 1,000-mile Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race traverses the frozen landscape, bringing racers, veterinarians and race enthusiasts in the middle of the otherwise quiet winter.

View the highly acclaimed new film, "Where Rivers Meet," a 12-minute orientation to the national preserve. It is featured at the park's visitor center in Eagle, and at the Public Lands Information Centers in Fairbanks and Anchorage. Visit historical sites including Coal Creek. Over the last 10 years, the former mining camp has been cleaned up, historic buildings have been restored, and one cabin has been coverted to a free public use cabin.

Accessibility

The preserve can be reached from Eagle or Circle, both of which are accessible by air taxi from Fairbanks. Eagle may also be reached on the Taylor Highway during the summer months. Circle is at the end of the 161-mile Steese Highway. The river is the primary method of travel in the park, as there are no roads or facilities.

Fees and Visitor Count

There are no entrance fees in Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve and visitors average around 5,500 each year.

Weather and Climate

Summer temperatures reach into the 80s, while winter temperatures can dip well below -50°F. Clothing that can be layered, sturdy camping and rain gear and good insect repellent are essential.

Facilities

Eagle Field Office Visitor Center, Eagle - 907-547-2233 (open mid-May to mid-September, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; mid-September to mid-May, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday)

History

The area was established as a national monument in 1978, and became a national preserve in 1980. The preserve protects 115 miles of the 1,800-mile Yukon River and the entire length of the 100-mile Charley Wild River.