Matanuska River

The Matanuska River flows southwest for 75 miles through a valley, receiving meltwater from the Matanuska Glacier before reaching Knik Arm of Cook Inlet.

The Dena'ina Athabascan people named this waterway Ch'atanhtnu, meaning 'trail comes out river', reflecting its role as a traditional transportation route.

The river corridor contains diverse plant communities, including black cottonwood, balsam poplar, white spruce, and paper birch trees that support local wildlife.

Access points for water activities include Hick's Creek, Chickaloon Bridge, and King Mountain Wayside, with the Old Glenn Highway Bridge serving as a takeout location.

The river's discharge varies dramatically throughout the year, from 500 cubic feet per second in March to 13,000 cubic feet per second in July.

GPS coordinates: 61.78291,-148.13835

Latest update: October 29, 2025 18:35