A serene landscape featuring a winding river surrounded by lush green forests and towering mountains with snow-capped peaks under a cloudy sky in Mat-Su, Alaska

About the Mat-Su

We’re only 35 miles north of Anchorage, but we’re a world of our own. Our region isn’t outlined on an average map, but then again there’s nothing average about this place. Here, the landscape transcends the ordinary. Delve into our rich history, or see for yourself.

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Find Your People

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough includes friendly communities of fellow adventurers, such as Wasilla, Palmer, and Talkeetna, and is centrally located between Anchorage and Denali National Park.

Talkeetna, Willow, & Parks Highway

Make the most of your Denali experience by visiting Willow, Talkeetna, Trapper Creek, and Denali State Park.

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A majestic snow-capped mountain peak rises above a lush green forest, with clouds swirling around its base in Mat-Su, Alaska
Four smiling people standing in front of a wooden sign that reads 'Welcome to Beautiful Downtown Talkeetna' in Mat-Su, Alaska
A seaplane takes off from a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and a small group of onlookers on a dock in Mat-Su, Alaska

Hot Tip

You can marvel at this famous mountain by road, by air, and by water.

Hot Tip

As the launch point for climbing expeditions on Denali, Talkeetna is a magnet for every kind of adventurer.

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From rafting to flightseeing, from backcountry lodges to cozy amenities, this area lets you encounter Alaska on your terms.

Hatcher Pass

A favorite among locals, this stunning mountain setting is where The Mat Su’s rich mining history comes to life.

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A cluster of rustic buildings nestled in a lush green valley with snow-capped mountains in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A majestic snow-capped mountain peak rises above a lush green forest, with clouds swirling around its base in Mat-Su, Alaska
A vast expanse of jagged, blue ice stretches across a mountainous landscape, with misty peaks rising in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A serene river scene at sunset with a canoe resting on the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil sky in Mat-Su, Alaska

Hot Tip

Gold was first discovered along Willow Creek back in 1896. (You never know.)

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In 1941, the Alaska Pacific Consolidation Mining Company was the largest producer in the mining district. Tour its fabled remnants.

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The mines have since become Independence Mine State Historical Park, where you can get a different kind of rush.

Palmer, Sutton, & Glenn Highway

The Palmer, Sutton, and Glenn Highway area contains both the Matanuska and Knik glaciers.

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A vast expanse of jagged, blue ice stretches across a mountainous landscape, with misty peaks rising in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A cluster of rustic buildings nestled in a lush green valley with snow-capped mountains in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A majestic snow-capped mountain peak rises above a lush green forest, with clouds swirling around its base in Mat-Su, Alaska
A serene river scene at sunset with a canoe resting on the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil sky in Mat-Su, Alaska

Hot Tip

Long daylight hours and fertile soil have made this area one of Alaska’s primary producers of award-winning vegetables. Give ’em a try.

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You can take a trek or try ice climbing on Matanuska Glacier, one of the only road accessible glaciers in the state.

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Hop on a boat or take an ATV or flight tour to Knik Glacier. Try your hand at glacier paddleboarding.

Wasilla, Big Lake, & Houston

These communities contain hundreds of glassy lakes for fishing and boating. Practice your golf swing under the midnight sun.

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A rustic wooden sign for the Iditarod Trail Race with colorful flags and a husky logo stands in front of a log cabin headquarters surrounded by lush greenery and flowers in Mat-Su, Alaska
An aerial view of a lush green golf course winding through a dense forest with a distant mountain range and clear blue sky in Mat-Su, Alaska
A man stands before a wall of engraved names, likely a memorial, under a clear blue sky in Mat-Su, Alaska
A golfer in a pink shirt and blue pants is swinging a club on a sunny day at a golf course in Mat-Su, Alaska

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Congratulations. You’ve found prime territory for fishing and water sports of all kinds.

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Wasilla is the borough’s largest town, with bustling restaurants and retail stores for fueling your excursions.

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With 67 miles of shoreline, Big Lake lives up to its name. No matter the season, we have you covered.

Daylight & Temp

Welcome to the land of the midnight sun. We have year-round low humidity and all four seasons. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare.

LET’S PREP

Make Your Move

We won’t tell you how to Mat-Su, but here are some pretty helpful resources and next steps that will elevate you to expert level.

LET’S PLAN

Frequently Asked Questions

The highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet, Denali is located in the Alaska Range of the United States, situated between the cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks.

On average, January is 20 degrees Fahrenheit with 6:24 of daylight. Learn more.

On average, June is 65 degrees Fahrenheit with 19:40 of daylight. Learn more.

Denali National Park & Preserve is (of course) home to Denali. Famous for its wildlife as well as its vast wilderness, we have all you need to navigate it with ease.

BUILD YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Our multi-day itineraries are filled with helpful suggestions as you sculpt your own Alaska journey. If you’re staying in nearby Anchorage, check out our day-trip ideas.