Klutina River, Mountain brook near Copper Center, United States.

Klutina River is a waterway near Copper Center that flows through dense forests and rocky terrain in south-central Alaska. It creates a natural passage connecting the Copper Center area to Klutina Lake across rugged country.

During Alaska's early mining development, this route connected prospectors traveling between Valdez and the Copper River region. The waterway became an important pathway for those seeking mineral resources in the territory.

The Ahtna name Tl’atii Na’ means "Glacier River," recorded in 1885 by Henry Tureman Allen, who spelled it Klatena. The river remains a sockeye and king salmon fishery, with king salmon sometimes weighing 50 to 90 pounds.

Most areas around the waterway require special permission, and access outside the protected easement area is restricted in most places. Contact the Ahtna or local authorities before planning a visit to confirm access rules.

The water shifts between turquoise and clear colors depending on how much glacial melt flows down from the Chugach Mountains. This color change happens naturally with the seasons and tells you when mountain snow is melting.