Susitna River (off of Denali Hwy.)

Hike Name: Susitna River (off of Denali Hwy.) Location: central AK Length: 20 + Submitted by: Glen Plumlee Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Alaska trail reviews Alaska national parks Alaska state parks
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Description
You begin at a gravel quarry where a well traveled ATV trail heads south rougly paralleling the Susitna River. (You won't be strolling along the river. It's a couple of miles away.) Stay on the ATV trail for about six miles. You pass several small lakes where I didn't get a bite. You also have to ford a small creek right at the beginning and it's cold water. At about 6 miles the trail curves to the left. Actually, there are a couple of trails that curve left. Look carefully. Take either one. You want to end up on a hill that overlooks the Susitna River Valley.You will be able to see Butte Creek in the valley. The river is further but you will be able to see it. The trail almost disappears as you hike down the hill. No worry. There are game trails that will lead you to the Creek. It is pretty boggy in places but easily passable. There are several good camp sites along Butte Creek and excellent fishing. My wife and I caught two graylings within about ten mintues. Lots of brown bears and some of the trails in the valley are game trails so it's good to make lot of noise. We went in July and didn't see anyone else hiking and didn't meet any griz. Two planes flew down the valley but it was pretty private. Beautiful view of Clearwater Mountains, Deadman Mountain 5500', etc. Lots of mosquiotes.

Directions to Hike
Go South from Fairbanks on the Parks Hwy. which is takes you on the east side of Denali to Cantwell. Go West on Denali Hwy. (Hwy. 8) for 56 miles to MP 80.7 on the west side of the Susitna River Bridge. You can park at either the Road Commission Landing Strip or a Gravel Quarry. I'd opt for the quarry as it is right at the trail head.

Contact Information
Glen Plumlee gplumlee@beamans.com

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