Navigating The Mat-Su

While most travelers touch down at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), the true Alaskan flying experience begins when you board a smaller regional craft. The Mat-Su is a world-class hub for general aviation, with bustling airfields in Wasilla and Palmer and the legendary flightseeing strips of Talkeetna. For an epic arrival, consider booking a regional air taxi or a puddle jumper to reach the more remote corners of the Borough.

If you prefer to leave the mountain driving to the experts, The Mat-Su is well-connected by professional shuttle and motorcoach services. These routes are perfect for travelers heading to our mountaineering hubs or hiking trails without the need for a rental car.

The Alaska Park Connection Motorcoach Service offers a seamless link between Anchorage, The Mat-Su, and Denali National Park, providing a stress-free way to watch the scenery of the Parks Highway unfold. For localized travel, several smaller operators offer hiker shuttles and regional transfers that can get you from the valley floor to the most iconic trailheads.

There is no better way to embrace the Alaskan experience than with a home on wheels. Renting an RV gives you the freedom to chase the best weather across the Valley. With a fleet of modern, subarctic-ready vehicles, providers like Great Alaskan Holidays allow you to set your own pace. Enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen to cook up your Mat-Su grown finds and the flexibility to stay an extra night when the Aurora Borealis puts on a show. Just remember to book your hookups in advance!

Riding the Alaska Railroad is a cinematic experience that follows the historic tracks of the pioneers. The Denali Star route winds through the heart of The Mat-Su, offering a relaxing, glass-domed perspective of the Susitna River and the towering peaks of the Alaska Range.

With key stops in Wasilla and Talkeetna, the train is a high-value option for those looking to pair luxury with legendary views. For a more rugged, local experience, look into the Hurricane Turn, one of the last flag-stop trains in the United States, which provides essential access to the remote wilderness stretches between Talkeetna and the northern reaches of the Borough.