State Parks and National Parks

Birch Creek National Wild and Scenic River

From its headwaters just north of the Steese National Conservation Area South Unit, Birch Creek flows swiftly through upland plateaus, forested valleys, rolling hills and low mountains.

As it reaches the marshy Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge, it slows and meanders until it joins the Yukon River.

The 126-mile wild river segment administered by the Bureau of Land Management can be reached from the Steese Highway north of Fairbanks. It's a perfect locale for canoe camping.

River travelers often see moose, caribou and a variety of birds while they quietly float downstream.

Arctic grayling can be found in the clearwater tributaries of the creek.

Photo credits in order: Photo by Craig McCaa, courtesy of Bureau of Land Management. Photo by B. Murdock, courtesy of Bureau of Land Management.