Fortymile River at a Glance

Location

The Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River is located in east-central Alaska near the Canadian border. The river's numerous forks (see the Maps page) flow into the 'mainstem' Fortymile River, which joins the Yukon River in Canada. Approximate driving times: 6 to 8 hours from Fairbanks; 8 to 10 hours from Anchorage; 2 to 3 hours from Dawson City, Yukon Territory.

Recreational opportunities

River float trips, camping, and sightseeing from the Taylor Highway are the primary attractions for visitors to the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River. For an Alaska river, the Fortymile has an unusual number of access points, making it possible to enjoy float trips that range from one day to several weeks in length.

River Access

The Taylor Highway provides road access to the Fortymile River at four places in Alaska. Another access point is available via a dirt road from the Top of the World Highway in Yukon Territory, Canada.  The end of the Taylor Highway in the village of Eagle provides additional road access for those who float to the mouth of the Fortymile River and then down the Yukon River.