Secret Talkeetna

July 3, 2021

It shouldn't be a secret any more. Most people pass on by Talkeetna between Anchorage and Denali National Park. And that's areal shame. They miss a quirky cool little village with plenty of charm. I stayed one night, about 24 hours total. I could have and should have stayed another night.

Talkeetna is an Alaska Native name meaning "where the river's meet." The town sits at the confluence of the Susitna and Talkeetna rivers. It was fun floating on the Talkeetna and our guide navigating the swift current when we met the Susitna!

If you have time and even if you don't, make time, 2 nights, to visit this place.

I happened to arrive for July 4th weekend and the town was gathered in the park for live music from local band Denali Cooks. It was so much fun.

Easily walkable down the main street, I visited just about every shop. Every one was interesting and had something unique to offer, whether Alaskan artisan gifts, restaurants, a top brewery, ice cream, and adventure outfitters. We are actually closer here to the mountain Denali than is the entrance to the park. Those who climb Denali reach the base camp from Talkeetna's airstrip. 

I had a tasty charcuterie "solo traveler" bowl with cheeses, meats, fruit, and nuts from the vibey Mimi's cheese shop. The Spinach bread shop is very popular and offers daily healthy specials. I had a black bean and rice bowl with cheese, bell pepper, yogurt, cilantro, and peanuts with an Ethiopian style spice. Terrific organic vegetarian food. Well, you could add sausage if you really need meat. 

Flightseeing trips for tourists also leave from here. I tried to book one and was on standby. But many flights were canceled due to cloudy overcast weather. Flying up there was too dangerous and the mountain would be hidden anyway.

What I did have time for was a 6 mile float, a 2 hour tour, on the rivers. Not whitewater, just a leisurely ride, letting the guide do all the work and some narration and history. 

I definitely  enjoyed this hideaway and highly recommend making the stop between your other destinations. It is a super cool little village. Take an extra night.

Next, 4th of July in Alaska.