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Chulitna Gorge Jetboat Tour by Mahay's in Talkeetna - Anchorage, AK

Chulitna Gorge Jetboat Tour by Mahay's in Talkeetna

Talkeetnaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most visitors with basic mobility; involves a short nature walk on gentle terrain.

Overview

Journey 50 miles through Alaska’s rugged Chulitna and Susitna Rivers on a jetboat tour with Mahay's Jetboat Adventures. Watch for bears and eagles, stroll through Dena'ina heritage sites, and soak in sweeping views of Denali’s peaks.

Talkeetna, Alaska

Chulitna Gorge Journey

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Adventure Photos

Chulitna Gorge Journey photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on the Chulitna Gorge Tour for a breathtaking 3.5-hour journey aboard the advanced “McKinley Queen” jetboat. Navigate the stunning Chulitna and Susitna Rivers, witness wildlife like bald eagles and bears, and explore the rich history of the Dena'ina people. Enjoy a leisurely nature walk and panoramic views of Denali.

Don’t miss the Chulitna Gorge Tour! Your 3 1/2 hour trip will begin aboard the “McKinley Queen” as it whisks you into the heart of the wilderness in comfort. These are the most technologically advanced jetboats in Alaska designed to safely navigate rivers that were previously inaccessible.

The trip will take you on the Chulitna and Susitna Rivers. You will travel through the Chulitna River Gorge and experience an Alaskan braided river, with a number of channels separated by small and often temporary islands. If Denali is out, you will be afforded one of the best views in the State, as she is framed by the very picturesque Tokosha Mountains.

As you travel ~fifty miles of river you will have opportunities to view nesting bald eagles and beaver activity. You just might see black bear or grizzly bear roaming the shore, but as always, there are no guarantees with the wildlife, as we have no control over nature.

During the 1/4 mile leisurely nature walk you will see an Encampment of the Dena'ina people, who were the earliest native settlers in the area and visit an authentic cabin of a trapper, who was the earliest white man settler in the area. You will see its rustic furnishings and see how the trapper lived in the “Bush” at the turn of the century.

Naturalists will acquaint you with the wildflowers and plants that grow in abundance along the river system and you will learn about the edible plants that were used by the Native Indians for cooking and medicines and what we still eat today.

The folklore, artifacts and panoramic view of Denali in the Alaska Range combined to make this an unforgettable and unique Alaskan river adventure. If you are staying at the Princess McKinley Wilderness Lodge, you will also have the option to disembark at the Mt. McKinley Wilderness Princess Lodge, saving you the hour long coach ride back to your hotel. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes bring your camera capture this amazing experience. This tour also includes a locally baked cookie and beverage.


Duration:

3.5 Hours


Availability:

3:30pm


Pricing:

Adult (13 and older)-$165 Child (2 - 12 years old)- $123.75 **Infant (under 2)-**Free


Additional Information

Travel Distance: ~50 miles Check in time: 1/2 hour before departure Please dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes for the nature walk. Be sure to bring your camera to capture this amazing experience. There is a restroom onboard.

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers for variable river weather

Alaskan river temperatures can shift quickly; bring waterproof and insulating layers even in summer.

Bring a camera with zoom lens

Wildlife sightings happen at a distance—zoom capability ensures you capture bald eagles and bears without disturbing them.

Wear sturdy shoes for the nature walk

The quarter-mile walking section involves uneven terrain; comfortable, closed-toe footwear is recommended.

Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in

Mahay's requires check-in ahead of departure time to ensure smooth boarding and briefing.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle
  • Beaver

History

The Dena'ina people were the first inhabitants of the Talkeetna area, and their presence is honored through cultural sites and storytelling on the tour.

Conservation

Navigating fragile river ecosystems with low-impact jetboats helps protect wildlife habitats and preserves this remote wilderness for future generations.

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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage, AK

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Protects you from river spray and spring drizzle.

spring specific

Binoculars

Ideal for spotting distant wildlife along the riverbanks.

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating the nature walk comfortably and safely.

Camera with zoom lens

For capturing detailed images of wildlife and scenery.