Discover Willow: Nature, History and Special Experiences

Willow combines impressive nature experiences with a history that stretches from the discovery of gold to the Iditarod tradition. Those looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Willow can therefore shape their stay in very different ways: with fishing and rafting on Willow Creek, historical discoveries or special experiences involving sled dogs. This combination is also interesting for families, as active days, nature observation and quieter excursions can be combined according to their own interests.

Water, Fishing and Paths through Nature

Near the confluence of Willow Creek and the Susitna River, Willow Creek State Recreation Area has a large developed campground for overnight stays. The area is also a popular fishing spot for salmon, rainbow trout, grayling and Dolly Varden. Those who enjoy being on the water will find a specific range of activities there: rafting is possible on a gentle section of Willow Creek, with Class I–II rapids. Day trips or overnight tours are available for this purpose.

Another option for planning your trip is provided by the fishing guides from Willow. They organize full- or half-day river trips targeting salmon and rainbow trout. This allows you to decide whether a short excursion or a longer day on the river better suits your holiday. The Willow Area Trails network is maintained by volunteers and used predominantly by motorized vehicles. For orientation, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough website provides an interactive map of all the trails.

Lakes and Special Viewpoints

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area is characterized by its lakes and is preserved for recreational purposes. The Nancy Lake Trailhead is located in Willow. The Willow Mountain Critical Habitat Area is also located near Willow and can be accessed from the south via the Peters-Purches Creek Trail starting at Hatcher Pass Road and via the Willow Creek Mountain Trail starting at Willer-Kash Road. Which of these options suits your trip depends on whether you want to focus on water, trails or exploring special natural areas.

There are public-use cabins at Nancy Lake. In summer, they can be reached by canoe, on foot or by floatplane; in winter, skis, dog sleds, snow vehicles or an airplane are options. At the Susitna Landing (Kashwitna River) Public Use Facility, the Kashwitna River and Susitna River meet. From there, you have a view of Mount Denali. To reach this facility, take the Parks Highway at mile 82.5 and then E. Susitna Landing Road, which runs for approximately one mile from the highway to the facility.

Gold-Mining History and Iditarod Tradition

Willow began as a tent city after gold was discovered on Willow Creek in 1897. The town's transportation history is also noteworthy: the Talkeetna Trail, the predecessor to the Parks Highway, ran through Willow, and by 1920 the town had its own railway station. These historical traces add another focus to the trip if you want to experience not only the landscapes but also understand the town's development.

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is one of the themes associated with Willow. The actual start takes place in Willow on the first Sunday in March at the Community Center. The official restart of the 2026 race was scheduled for Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m. in Willow. In summer, dog kennels in Willow offer tours and rides in dog-drawn carts. This makes it possible to experience the sled-dog tradition from another perspective outside the racing season as well.

The Right Accommodation for Your Travel Plans

When looking for a holiday apartment in Willow, it is worth first deciding on the rhythm you want for your trip. Fishing, river trips and rafting call for a stay focused on water-based experiences. Those more interested in history, the Iditarod and dog sledding can make these topics the focus of their trip. When looking for accommodation in Willow, you can take these personal priorities into account as selection criteria without having to commit to just one type of trip.

For further regional orientation, you can also include Wasilla, Palmer and Talkeetna in your plans.

For the broader travel overview: Matanuska-Susitna Borough.