Tanana Lakes Recreation Area
Fairbanks' gem for fishing, swimming, boating, and community events, with a vibrant farmers market and winter ice skating.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fairbanks' gem for fishing, swimming, boating, and community events, with a vibrant farmers market and winter ice skating.
"A great summer spot for families and a nice gathering place for summer fun and activities!"
🎯 Dog-Friendly Swimming Spots
Head right towards the jet ski/boat area for dog-friendly swimming. Great for pups who love to splash! :dog:
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near the water in the evenings. Pack plenty of repellent! :japanese_goblin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tanana Valley Farmers Market
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area
Vibrant market with local produce, crafts, and food. A must-visit for a taste of Fairbanks!
Cushman Lake Beach
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area
Sandy beach perfect for swimming, picnicking, and family fun. Enjoy the clear water on a warm day.
Ice Skating Loop
Big Dipper Ice Rink (Tanana Lakes)
Enjoy outdoor ice skating on a scenic loop during winter months. Check conditions and rentals beforehand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Bugs
Fishing & Water Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dog-Friendly Swimming Spots
Head right towards the jet ski/boat area for dog-friendly swimming. Great for pups who love to splash! :dog:
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near the water in the evenings. Pack plenty of repellent! :japanese_goblin:
🎣 Stocked Fishing Lake
Tanana Lakes is stocked with rainbow trout and salmon. Great for anglers of all levels! :fishingpoleand_வத:
🛶 Watercraft Rentals
Rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards for a fun day on the lake. Perfect for exploring! :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dog-Friendly Swimming Spots
Head right towards the jet ski/boat area for dog-friendly swimming. Great for pups who love to splash! :dog:
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near the water in the evenings. Pack plenty of repellent! :japanese_goblin:
🎣 Stocked Fishing Lake
Tanana Lakes is stocked with rainbow trout and salmon. Great for anglers of all levels! :fishingpoleand_வத:
🛶 Watercraft Rentals
Rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards for a fun day on the lake. Perfect for exploring! :kayak:
🎟️ Market Tickets in Advance
For the Tanana Valley State Fair, buy tickets early to skip lines and enjoy the festivities! :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tanana Lakes for its diverse recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating to swimming and picnicking. The clean beaches and well-maintained trails are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great spot for family fun and community gatherings. Some find the bug situation can be intense during peak summer evenings.
"Tanana lakes recreation area has fishing ,boating and swimming areas. They also have a place where you can rent a canoe, kayak or paddle board. Good place to fish for trout. It is a stocked lake. They have a sandy beach where you can swim or picnic with your family. I enjoy taking my dog to the boat ramp where he can swim."
Scott York
"Although there is nothing like the ocean and a beach, this is a nice summer spot for families! Nice gathering place to meet up with friends too for summer fun and activities!"
Washington Stadunks
"Tanana Lakes Swim Beach was very nice, water is decently clear and not overly crowded. Great place for Family fun, birthdays and even cookouts.
Some things I recommend brining if you plan a trip.
Towels
Sunscreen
Canopy
Chairs
Food and drinks.
Overall great family fun!"
Cody Lambert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area is easily accessible from Fairbanks. It's located at 4400 S Cushman St Exd, Fairbanks, AK 99701. Many visitors drive, and there's free parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so check local transit schedules if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available at Tanana Lakes Recreation Area, and it's often free of charge. This makes it convenient for day trips and family outings.
Public transportation options to Tanana Lakes Recreation Area from Fairbanks can be limited. It's best to check with local Fairbanks transit authorities for the most up-to-date information on bus routes or other public transport services.
Yes, public restrooms are available at Tanana Lakes Recreation Area. They have been recently remodeled, offering a clean and convenient facility for visitors.
While specific hours can vary, Tanana Lakes Recreation Area is generally accessible during daylight hours for most recreational activities. Special events may have specific timings. It's always a good idea to check local park schedules for any event-specific hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee for Tanana Lakes Recreation Area, making it an accessible destination for everyone. However, special events like the Tanana Valley State Fair may have separate admission fees.
Entry to the Tanana Valley Farmers Market itself is typically free. However, if you plan to attend the larger Tanana Valley State Fair, it's recommended to buy tickets in advance to skip lines.
Yes, there are costs associated with renting canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards at Tanana Lakes. The exact pricing can vary, so it's best to inquire locally about rental rates before your visit.
This project enhances access to federally-managed lands along the Tanana River. It was funded through federal grants and has improved recreational opportunities in the area.
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area hosts various events throughout the year, including Bonfire Nights and Labor Day BBQs. It's advisable to check local event listings or the FNSB Parks and Recreation social media for upcoming activities.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating
Tanana Lakes is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and Chinook salmon, making it a popular spot for anglers. You might also encounter other species depending on the season.
Yes, there are boating areas at Tanana Lakes, including a boat ramp. You can launch personal watercraft or enjoy activities like jet skiing.
The lake is stocked, so fishing can be good in many areas. Anglers often find success near the stocked areas and around the lake's perimeter.
Yes, a valid Alaska fishing license is required to fish in Tanana Lakes. You can obtain licenses from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game or authorized vendors.
Fishing gear rental is not typically available directly at Tanana Lakes. It's recommended to bring your own fishing equipment or rent it from sporting goods stores in Fairbanks.
🎫 🏖️ Swimming & Picnics
The Tanana Lakes Swim Beach is generally considered very nice, with decently clear water. It's often not overly crowded, making it a great spot for family fun.
For a picnic, it's recommended to bring towels, sunscreen, a canopy for shade, chairs, and plenty of food and drinks. Don't forget bug spray!
Yes, dogs are allowed to swim at Tanana Lakes. A specific tip mentions turning right towards the jet ski/boat area where dogs can swim in calmer waters.
Absolutely! Tanana Lakes is described as a great gathering place for families, with clean beaches, picnic areas, and even a pavilion available for parties and get-togethers.
The picnic areas at Tanana Lakes are well-maintained and include public restrooms and barbecue facilities. There's also a pavilion that can be reserved for larger events.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
Tanana Lakes offers beautiful scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset. Snowshoeing trails in winter provide unique photographic moments with glorious light. The lake itself, the beach, and the surrounding natural landscape are all picturesque.
Yes, Tanana Lakes can be stunning in winter. Snowshoeing on the frozen lake offers unique perspectives and beautiful light conditions, though it can get very cold.
While not exclusively for photography, the Flicker Trail is noted for being well-laid out and accessible, offering pleasant views. The trails around the lake provide various vantage points for capturing the scenery.
You might spot wildlife like bald eagles fishing in the lake, as seen in one reel where an eagle snatched a trout. Keep an eye out for birds and other local fauna.
Many visitors find the scenery at Tanana Lakes to be beautiful and peaceful, making it a worthwhile visit even if you're not fishing or swimming. The sandy beach and lake views are particularly appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tanana Lakes: Activities Galore
Beyond water-based activities, the recreation area boasts well-maintained and labeled trails, including the accessible Flicker Trail, suitable for both individuals with and without disabilities. In winter, the area transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland. The Big Dipper Ice Rink offers an outdoor ice skating loop, providing a unique way to experience the Alaskan landscape. The trails are also popular for snowshoeing, offering stunning views and a chance to enjoy the crisp winter air.
Tanana Lakes also serves as a hub for community events. From Bonfire Nights and Labor Day BBQs to the vibrant Tanana Valley Farmers Market and the larger Tanana Valley State Fair, there's often something happening to engage visitors. The Tanana River Recreation Access Improvements Project has further enhanced access to the surrounding federally-managed lands, underscoring the area's commitment to recreational development.
The Tanana Valley Farmers Market Experience
Beyond the shopping, the market often features live music and a lively atmosphere, making it a fantastic place to spend a summer morning or afternoon. It's an excellent opportunity to support local businesses and get a true taste of the Fairbanks community. For those planning a visit, it's worth checking the market's schedule, as it typically runs throughout the summer months. Attending the market is a sensory experience, filled with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the friendly chatter of vendors and shoppers alike.
Winter Wonders at Tanana Lakes
Beyond the rink, the frozen lake and surrounding trails become a playground for snowshoeing and winter hiking. The scenery can be particularly breathtaking, with the unique experience of trails extending onto the frozen lake itself. While the beauty is undeniable, remember that Alaskan winters are cold, so dressing in warm layers and protecting extremities is crucial for an enjoyable experience. The crisp air and quiet solitude of a winter visit to Tanana Lakes offer a different, yet equally captivating, perspective on this popular recreation spot.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit