If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing way to cool off this summer, paddling the Chena River is the perfect afternoon activity with clear, beautiful waters you can paddle your way down on a kayak or canoe. Enjoy the break from your bustling day to spend some time on this peaceful river through Fairbanks!

The Chena River is a 100-mile-long river that runs right down the center of Fairbanks, Alaska.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal Facebook
The river is rated a class II, with the difficult sections in the upper portion. The lower sections have calm, clear waters, making it a popular boating spot during the summer.
You’ll find more than just paddle boats on the river during the summer!
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Many people like to float on tubes, and others like to travel down it on their motor boats. The easiest section is a nice, two-hour float that passes by a popular restaurant on the river called The Pump House.
Many people like to paddle the entire river, taking time to camp on its banks.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal Facebook
There’s also great wildlife viewing. You can expect to see fox, waterfowl, mink, and even beavers!

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If you’re interested, there is spectacular hunting along the river.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal / Google Maps
Many people come out to travel the river to stock up on game. Fishing this beautiful river is also a favorite pastime of many people!
The river runs through both wilderness and city.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal Facebook
It’s an amazing juxtaposition that allows you to plan for many different types of trips! If you want a longer, more adventurous float trip, then you can plan that easily. For those wanting a shorter, relaxing float, there’s great places to put in and pull out within Fairbanks' city limits.
The water usually runs clear in this river, so if the river looks a little murky, practice caution.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal Facebook
That means the river is running high, and you will want to scout out your next moves when the river branches in certain areas. Make sure to always wear a life jacket while paddling down this or any beautiful river in Alaska!
There are plenty of amazing places to rent a canoe or kayak if you’re interested on paddling this river.
Fairbanks Paddle and Pedal Facebook
If you’d rather not paddle it by yourself, you can go with a guide at a company like Canoe Alaska, or Alaska Wildlife Guide. There are so many great options for traveling this beautiful river!

Have you had a chance to paddle the Chena River? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for somewhere great to eat on the river, check out The Pump House, which has The Most Delicious All-You-Can-Eat Dining Experience In Alaska You’ll Absolutely Love!

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