Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau

Flightsee around Denali, North America's tallest peak, and land at base camp. Walk on Alaska's largest road accessible glacier. Mush a team of Iditarod huskies - your Alaska adventure begins in the Mat-Su, just an hour north of Anchorage and the gateway to Denali. Experience Alaska on your own terms. The Mat-Su has everything visitors desire - mountains, glaciers and wildlife, making it the ideal location to base your adventures from.

Travel north on the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway and visit the town of Palmer, famous for its giant vegetables and small-town feel. In the spring of 2026, the Gateway Visitor Center will open - a 9,500 square foot welcoming center where you can learn about the region's history, get trip planning advice, enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the Chugach Mountain and get connected with nature. Continue on the Glenn Highway and stop in Chickaloon to learn about our Ahtna Dene history. Then continue on to Matanuska Glacier for a truly memorable experience. Explore the glacier by helicopter, a guided trek or even by glamping! 

Take the Parks Highway north from Anchorage and visit Wasilla, home of the Iditarod Headquarters. It is a bustling community with plenty of shopping, restaurants, attractions and more. For breathtaking scenery, take a short trip to Hatcher Pass and discover Independence Mine. You'll have sweeping views of the valley below - it's a great place for an easy hike and berry picking. Further north, the communities of Big Lake and Willow have excellent fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. 

Talkeetna has the best views of Denali in Alaska! Sip wine from the deck of the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge and revel in the views of the Alaska Range, or take a flightseeing trip around Denali and land at basecamp - Talkeetna is where climbers begin their Denali dream. Talkeetna is also known for its mountain vibe - visit the microbrewery, shop Alaskan-made goods and relax in comfort. Further north, Denali State Park is a treasure you don't want to miss.

Base your stay on one of our many events, including the Alaska State Fair in August or the start of Iditarod in early March. See www.alaskavisit.com for a complete calendar of events, itinerary suggestions and to request the official visitor guide for the region. Don't just "see" Alaska, "experience" it in the Mat-Su!