Birch Creek is a Class I/II river with some Class III sections on the upper portion of the river. Depending on varying conditions such as rainfall and sweepers (fallen trees along the banks) river conditions can be more challenging. The upper portion more often than not has some sweepers that require a quick response to navigate around. The river is designated as a national “Wild and Scenic River”. In addition to the picturesque landscapes the area is great for wildlife viewing and fishing.
Getting There: Although we can provide transportation to and from Birch Creek, we are providing these directions if you wish to get there on your own. The Birch Creek “Put-In” is located approximately 105 miles Northeast of Fairbanks. Starting from downtown Fairbanks take the Steese Highway north to mile 94.1 of the Steese Highway. At mile 94.1 is located the Upper Birch Wayside, which is the “put-in for Birch Creek.
There are two basic trips that can be taken on Birch Creek. The first trip entails a “Take-Out” at the Lower Birch Creek Wayside, which is approximately 110 river miles from the Upper Birch Creek Wayside, and takes about 50 hours on the water. If you miss the campground at the Lower Birch Creek Wayside, there is a “Take-Out” about 10 miles down stream where the Steese Highway crosses Birch Creek Mile 147). Beyond the “take-out” at the Steese Highway Bridge, Birch Creek slows down and the main river is difficult to distinguish from sloughs that may not have an outlet. Another words be prepared for a long trip beyond the Steese Highway take-out. You can take out at the Village of Birch Creek which can take up to two weeks to reach. The Village of Birch Creek is not accessible by the road system, thus folding craft are required.
If you get on the correct channel you can enter the Yukon River, and then take out at the Dalton River Bridge that crosses the Yukon River.
Planning Your Trip: Get familiar with the area by purchasing some USGS maps. The United States Geologic Survey (USGS) maps that cover the area are: Alaska Circle B-1 through Circle B-4 and Circle C-1. Another great resource is to lookup the Land Sat satellite data for the area.
Although we take care of your ground transportation and equipment we can also assist our clients in finding economical transport around town and housing for before and after your trip at no additional fee.
In additional to canoe rentals we also offer “Bear Boxes”(for food storage) and we are have a full retail store (Paddler’s Cove Outfitters) to get you the proper clothing that we feel works the best for paddling in Interior Alaska.
Birch Creek is a remote river and you must plan accordingly. River conditions can vary depending on rainfall in the days prior to you departure on Birch Creek Day time temperature can be in the ninety degree Fahrenheit range and can drop to 40 degrees even in mid summer. From around mid to end of June you will experience almost total day time. Sun block, mosquito repellent, and rain gear are essential.
Water temperatures are usually cold (even on warm days); therefore a PFD (life jacket) is mandatory. To insure you will wear your PFD at all times while on the river we provide high quality (comfortable) PFD’s at no extra charge.
Even though you are in pristine wilderness drinking water should be boiled, filter or treated chemically for Giardia.
Birch Creek provides an incredible opportunity for wildlife viewing such as; Dall sheep, moose, caribou and both grizzly and black bears, fox, wolves, and beavers. Keeping your campsite clean and store food away from tents and boats to avoid unwelcome visitors.
If you like fishing Birch Creek has Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike and Salmon. You will be required to get a fishing license which can be obtained in Fairbanks at several local stores.
If you require any further information for planning your paddle excursion please contact us.
