The Chena River runs right through the center of Fairbanks, and the paved path along its banks is the most pleasant walk in town. The river walk stretches from Golden Heart Plaza downstream through parkland and residential neighborhoods, with benches, interpretive signs, and views of the slow-moving water.
In summer, the river is busy with canoeists and kayakers, and you can rent boats at several points along the way. Salmon run up the Chena in July and August — king salmon first, then silvers — and you can watch anglers casting from the banks within sight of downtown. In winter, the frozen river becomes a snowmachine corridor. The walk is flat and easy, and connects several of downtown's key landmarks.