[6] The nature center lies along the North Fork Eagle River, which runs roughly parallel to the main stem for several miles.

It then passes under Glenn Highway and flows through Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a military reservation, to Eagle Bay on Cook Inlet.

Reaching a put-in place on the main stem west of the visitor center involves an arduous portage.

A more accessible put-in place lies along the North Fork and Eagle River Road not far above the confluence with the main stem.

[8] The historic Crow Pass Trail, which runs 26 miles (42 km) from the Eagle River Nature Center and ends near the town of Girdwood, remains a favorite backpacking trip.