Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve
Viewing Information
Historic relics, expansive scenery, magnificent summer skies, and abundant wildlife lure adventuresome travelers to this remote preserve. The most popular way to visit the preserve is to float down the Yukon River, taking side trips up major tributary rivers (the Nation, the Kandik, and the Charley) and day hikes in bordering highlands. Request a list of authorized guides from the National Park Service.
Wildlife Viewing and Safety Tips
River floaters can see endangered peregrine falcons diving from cliffs at speeds of more than one hundred miles per hour to catch their prey in mid-aid. Moose, hidden from their predators in dense brush, bear their calves by the river’s edge; and bands of Dall sheep ewes and lambs forage along the bluffs of the Charley River. The mighty Yukon flows through this ancient landscape, supplying the region’s inhabitants with king and chum salmon. Nearby, in the historic communities of Circle and Eagle, the style of life and weathered buildings recall Athabascan Indian history, Gold Rush days, the riverboat era, and Alaska’s frontier spirit. Look for peregrine falcons along rivers and atop rocky bluffs; forty pairs of winged hunters nest between Eagle and Circle.
Accessible Facilities
Contact the NPS for information about accessible facilities at the preserve.
Directions
Scheduled air taxis serve Eagle and Circle year-round. These communities can also be reached from the Taylor and Steese Highways respectively. From there, most people boat or float the Yukon River and its tributaries to reach the preserve. Commercial operators also fly into the upper Charlie River.
Other Resources
NPS (Eagle Visitor Center) (907) 547-2233 or the Fairbanks office at (907)457-5752
http://www.nps.gov/yuch/connect.htm
ADF&G (Fairbanks office): (907) 459-7200