Newhalen AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Newhalen, Alaska.
1. Newhalen River
FAMED SALMON-FISHING SPOT
Newhalen River is renowned for its incredible salmon runs, attracting anglers from around the world during the mid-summer season. The dramatic whitewater at The Rapids provides excellent wildlife viewing, including the chance to spot foxes, moose, and even bears near the riverbanks. The scenic setting between tundra, taiga, and mountains makes this a quintessential Alaskan outdoor destination.
2. Iliamna Lake
ALASKA'S LARGEST LAKE
Iliamna Lake, located at the edge of Newhalen, is the largest lake in Alaska and provides breathtaking views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is rumored to hold its own mysterious lake monster. With pristine waters and a tranquil environment, it's an essential stop for nature lovers.
3. The Rapids on Newhalen River
SCENIC WHITEWATER AREA
The Rapids is a stunning, unnavigable stretch of whitewater on the Newhalen River famous for bottlenecking salmon during their spawning run. This natural spectacle draws both anglers and wildlife, providing unforgettable viewing for visitors. The remote beauty of the Rapids showcases the raw power and vitality of Alaska's wilderness.
4. Berry Picking Tundra
SEASONAL WILD BERRY FIELDS
The tundra surrounding Newhalen is blanketed with wild berries like blueberries, lingonberries, crowberries, and cloudberries during the summer months. Locals and visitors alike enjoy berry picking, an activity that combines delicious bounty with scenic tranquility. The soft lichen carpeting the ground makes for a comfortable and picturesque outdoor experience.
5. Taiga Forest Trails
BLACK SPRUCE FOREST WALKS
Newhalen's extensive trail system winds through taiga forests dominated by black and white spruce, offering a quiet retreat for hikers and ATV riders. Exploring these forests reveals diverse wildlife and a peaceful atmosphere unique to Alaska's interior. The trails are also an essential route for subsistence activities and traditional gathering.
6. Local ATV Trail System
SCENIC BACKCOUNTRY RIDES
The local network of ATV trails provides adventurous ways to traverse Newhalen's natural landscapes, from berry fields to riverbanks. With limited roads, these trails are central to exploring the area, connecting people to lakes, forests, and traditional subsistence sites. Riding the trails offers an up-close look at Newhalen's rugged beauty.
7. Berry Patch Café (Seasonal Popup)
LOCAL HOMEMADE TREATS
Berry Patch Café is a seasonal community-run pop-up that offers homemade baked goods, featuring wild berries harvested locally. The café provides a taste of Newhalen's traditional bounty and serves as a cozy gathering place for residents and visitors. Enjoy locally made pastries, tea, and coffee in a friendly, informal setting.
8. Village Craft Shop
HANDMADE GIFTS AND ART
The Village Craft Shop showcases locally made crafts, jewelry, and art emphasizing the cultural heritage of the Dena'Ina, Yup'ik, and Sugpiaq peoples. Shoppers can find traditional beadwork, baskets, and carvings that make unique souvenirs. The shop supports area artisans and helps preserve regional craftsmanship.
9. Community Smokehouse
TRADITIONAL FISH PROCESSING
The Community Smokehouse provides a glimpse into the area's longstanding fishing traditions, where salmon is prepared and preserved using ancestral methods. Visitors can sometimes tour the facility, especially during salmon season, and sample smoked fish products. It's an authentic way to experience local subsistence culture.
10. Newhalen Cultural Center
HERITAGE AND HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Newhalen Cultural Center serves as a hub for celebrating and preserving the unique mix of Dena'Ina, Yup'ik, and Sugpiaq traditions in the community. The center hosts exhibits, workshops, and storytelling events that engage visitors in local history and customs. It's a meaningful stop for those interested in the cultural fabric of the region.
11. Iliamna River
FISHING AND BOATING SPOT
Located just across the lake from Newhalen, the Iliamna River offers excellent salmon and trout fishing as well as scenic float trips. Its picturesque river valley provides a serene setting for nature photography and wildlife observation. Anglers flock here for the abundance of fish and the tranquil environment.
12. Iliamna General Store
SUPPLIES AND LOCAL GOODS
Iliamna General Store, in the neighboring community, is the main stop for groceries, outdoor supplies, and basic provisions for Newhalen residents and visitors. The shop also carries locally made goods, snacks, and occasional seafood catches. It is a vital resource for those exploring the region's remote wilderness.
13. Alaska Peninsula Corporation Lands
GUIDED OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
The Alaska Peninsula Corporation manages vast tracts of private land around Newhalen that are available for permitted guided recreation, including fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. These lands are known for their stunning scenery and rich wildlife, attracting adventurous travelers. Permits and information are available through the regional office for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
14. Lake Iliamna Lodge
RUSTIC FISHING RETREAT
Lake Iliamna Lodge, located near Newhalen, offers rustic accommodations and guided fishing or adventure trips on Alaska's largest lake. The lodge specializes in personalized service, with opportunities to fish, hike, or explore the lake by boat. It's an ideal base for travelers seeking comfort amid the Alaskan wilderness.
15. Traditional Subsistence Sites
LIVING CULTURAL HERITAGE
Designated subsistence sites around Newhalen provide a window into the traditions of hunting, fishing, and gathering that sustain local families. Visitors can learn about seasonal cycles, resource management, and cultural practices from residents. Participating in a guided visit offers an immersive educational experience.