Eagle River

Eagle River is a community located within the Municipality of Anchorage, in the U.S. state of Alaska. It is situated on the Eagle River for which it is named, between Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Chugach State Park.

Geography

Eagle River is located at the northernmost point of the Municipality of Anchorage. It is bordered by the Chugach Mountains to the east and the Knik Arm of the Cook Inlet to the west. The community is named for the Eagle River, which runs through the center of town, providing numerous recreational opportunities including fishing, rafting, and hiking.

History

The area of Eagle River was originally inhabited by the Dena'ina people, an Athabaskan group. The first non-native exploration of the area was conducted by Lt. Henry T. Allen of the U.S. Army in 1885. The area remained sparsely populated until the construction of the Glenn Highway in 1940, which connected Eagle River to Anchorage and other communities in the region.

Economy

Eagle River's economy is primarily based on the service industry, with many residents commuting to Anchorage for work. The community also benefits from its proximity to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, which provides a significant number of jobs.

Education

Eagle River is served by the Anchorage School District, with several elementary, middle, and high schools located within the community. The University of Alaska Anchorage also operates a satellite campus in Eagle River.

Recreation

Eagle River is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. The community is located adjacent to Chugach State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Eagle River itself is a popular destination for fishing and rafting.

See also

• Anchorage, Alaska
• Chugach State Park
• Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson