State Parks and National Parks

Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River

The Fortymile River drainage region is an extensive network of creeks and rivers in east-central Alaska, 240 miles southeast of Fairbanks.

Nearly 400 miles of river have been designated as federally-protected recreation areas. Boaters can explore deep, winding canyons filled with forests of birch, spruce and aspen.

Remnants of past mining operations dot the river banks, recalling the area's rich gold mining history.

A popular trip is the 38-mile float from the South Fork bridge to the Fortymile Bridge. Visitors can also continue from the bridge to the Yukon River, a distance of 92 miles.

There are sections of Class II to V rapids, depending on the seasonal water level.

Boaters should portage around Class V rapids.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Bureau of Land Management. Courtesy of Bureau of Land Management.