Terry Gose
(907) 240-3667

Eagle River, AK Area Guide

Eagle River, annexed to the city of Anchorage, is situated on the Eagle River between Fort Richardson and Chugach State Park and the Chugach Mountains. If not for its annexation, it would be considered one of the five largest cities in Alaska, with a population of over 22,000. Eagle River has continued to try to secede from Anchorage since 2000 through petitions and home rule vote, but so far has been unsuccessful in its efforts. In spite of this, it’s continued to grow, with tourism a major factor, thanks to its parks and recreation. For more details please see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eagle_River,_Alaska

History

Settled by homesteaders, Eagle River was first reported by a geological survey in 1939. The area's history comes from the Dena'ina Indians, who settled in Eklutna and throughout Eagle River and Chugiak. Thanks to the Alaska Railroad, colonists flocked to Eagle River during the early 1900's, and it became a bustling agricultural community.

With the outbreak of World War II in 1939, military leaders began to anticipate the involvement of the United States. This led to the establishment of Fort Richardson Military Reservation and later Elmendorf Air Force Base, with most of the land acquired between 1940 and 1943.

Today, both bases are still operational and enjoy a close relationship with the people of Eagle River.

Eagle River has become the shopping hub between Anchorage, Palmer and Wasilla with major stores such as Wal-Mart and Safeway having stores there. The last decade has seen more growth in Eagle River, with amenities such as a six screen movie theatre and almost double the number of restaurants to choose from, with menus including Thai, Indian and that old standby, hamburgers as well as great little coffee shops to visit.

Trans-Alaska Pipeline
As a result of the Trans-Alaska pipeline, from 1980 to 1985, Chugiak-Eagle River's population grew from 14,800 to 25,067 people. New schools were constructed to accommodate the influx of people and roads and utilities were upgraded.

If you’re ready to explore, just a short ten mile drive from downtown Anchorage, Eagle River offers bothoutdoor excursions and upscale activities as well as tourist attractions.

Attractions

Eagle River Nature Center
The Eagle River Nature Center is a good place to start your visit. Part of Chugach State Park, the center has displays to share their information on local wildlife and nature. Daily guided walking tours are available as well as cabins to rent, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a yurt!

Eklutna Lake
Offers hiking, biking and cross country skiing as well as rafting and when you’ve finished hiking, you can visit. For more details about Eagle River, please visit: http://www.cer.org/index.htm

Eklutna Historical Park
Home of the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, the church has an onion-shaped globe perched on top of this small wooden historic building. Built in the 1830’s, it marks a site that was once a vital part of Russian America it. To learn more please visit: http://www.cer.org/pntsvint.htm

Thunderbird Falls
These spectacular falls are the terminus of a comfortable one mile family walk on a well maintained trail. It is a must see for all who visit this community! For more information, please visit: http://www.cer.org/pntsvint.htm

Lions Club Park Eagle River
This park was developed for public use by the Eagle River Lions Club and the Municipality of Anchorage with grants from the State of Alaska. Located at mile 1.5 on Eagle River Road, the park offers children's playground equipment and covered picnic areas. Six baseball diamonds, four tennis courts, a basketball court and horseshoe pits are maintained for use by the general public. The Lions Club House has wonderful banquet facilities and is available to rent for special events.

Events

Bear Paw Festival
Beginning in 1985, the Chamber of Commerce created the Bear Paw Festival to celebrate the community and to share the beauty of the area with others. 2010 saw the 25th anniversary of the festival and the Chamber is proud that most all of the effort expended staging this event every year comes from dedicated volunteers.

Winter Wonderland Walk and Community Tree Lighting
Downtown Eagle River Commons is where you want to be so you don’t miss the spectacular show. The tree lighting is co-hosted by the Chamber of commerce, Chugiak-Eagle River Parks and Recreation and the Eagle River Rotary and features elementary school choirs from the area. Santa and a team of his eight real reindeer visit the event with a Torched Processional and a visit with all the kids. Free Horse Drawn Sleigh rides take place annually along with lots of giveaway treats and fun. You can also share in the spirit of the season with donations of food to the Eagle River Food Pantry and donations of gifts to families in need through the Sleeping Lady Lions. Just bring your canned goods or unwrapped gifts to the event!

Scottish Highland Games
Welcome the Scottish Highland Games in Eagle River at Lions Park. This all day event features traditional Scottish Games and massing of the bag pipe bands in a spectacular cultural display. Come celebrate the Scottish heritage and visit us in Eagle River -- 4th Saturday of June each year! For more information please visit: http://www.cer.org/comevnts.htm

Independence Day Celebrations Fireworks on July 3 & Parade on July 4th
Annually, on July 3rd, the Eagle River Lions Club hosts the community-wide Independence Day celebration. Located at mile 1.5 of Eagle River Road. Lions Park is the scene for thousands to enjoy community entertainment, sky divers, games, and concessions. The evening's events begin at 6:30pm and culminate at Midnight with a terrific fireworks display. Because it starts off at midnight, this is the first official "July 4th" firework celebration in the area. Crowds bring blankets and picnic baskets and come to enjoy the event under the midnight sun! Residents, young and old alike, take this occasion to celebrate our nation's birthday! To learn more please visit: http://www.cer.org/comevnts.htm

For more details about Eagle River, AK please visit: http://www.cer.org/index.htm