Alaska Day 7: A Taste of Talkeetna
After my stay at Camp Denali ended, my itinerary was a bit up in the air. I had no accommodations booked for the rest of the week! I was really winging this one. I just knew I had to be in Palmer the following day for a tour I had booked, so Jenna, the owner of Camp Denali recommended I spend the night in Talkeetna, a historic town where mountaineers have long kicked off their journeys to summit Denali.
Talkeetna was about half way to Palmer so the location was ideal for my overnight stay. She called her friend Bill, who owned some cabins there. He let me book one over the phone and off I went. Everyone in Alaska is so nice! I rolled into town around 7:30p and was surprised to see that most things were closed. There is one small Main Street that runs through Talkeetna with bars and restaurants on it, but the place was pretty empty when I arrived. I assume it had to do with how late in the season I was there.
things to do
Talkeetna is a stop on the Alaska Railroad and many people traveling to Alaska visit the pioneer town. From hiking trails to ziplining, there are plenty of wilderness activities available, plus three rivers (Susitna, Talkeetna and Chulitna) converge there so you can fish, kayak and explore the area by jetboats and rafts. I found the vibe to be half historic and half hipster. Lining Main Street are legendary spots like Nagley’s General Store (pictured above) and The Talkeetna Roadhouse where for decades, climbers have spent the night and grabbed a final meal before trekking to Denali. There’s also a cannabis shop, vintage clothing store and some quirky art and coffee shops.
Talkeetna Roadhouse
High Expedition Cannabis
Home of The Talkeetna Spinach Bread Airstream
Welcome Sign
LODGING
There is lodging all over Talkeetna made up of mostly cabins, inns and B&B style accommodations. I stayed at Talkeetna Cabins. They have four 3 bedroom cabins arranged in a small cul de sac. It’s a great option for families or groups because you get a fully furnished two floor log cabin all to yourself.
Kitchen
Living Area
Bathroom
Ground Level Bedroom
LOCATION
The cabins are in a prime location, just a few yards from all the bars and restaurants and right next to Talkeetna River View Park, which is where many people had told me I could find the best view of Denali. You do get a stunning view of the south side of the mountain from there. Camp Denali’s view was extra special, but with the Susitna River on the move in front of you and the mountain in all its majesty in the distance, the view from Talkeetna was quite stunning. There were a handful of people in the park taking photos and watching the sunset.
Sweet STOP
I didn’t have to be in Palmer until 1pm the following day so I stopped by Kahiltna Birchworks on my way out of town. The birch syrup harvesting season in Alaska averages around 3 weeks each year – typically in April – and Kahiltna Birchworks is the world’s largest producer of it! You can learn all about how it’s made right in Talkeetna. The facility offers on-site tastings and tours. They are also known for their famous birch ice cream!
The gift shop on site is impressive. They sell endless varieties of syrup plus other Alaskan food products and items made by local artisans. Surprisingly, I did not take any photos inside, but perusing the syrups reminded me a lot of shopping in a wine store. Luckily, they have lots of great photos and info on their website if you want to learn more!
My niece LOVES pancakes so I had to scoop a small bottle to bring home to her. It’s a great gift and way to support a local business! She loved it!
