Entire home

MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN

Riverside holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN

WILLOW CREEK INN on the river
AUTUMN  AT WILLOW CREEK INN
Willow Creek Inn
Kitchen
Winter at Willow Creek Inn

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 292.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Nancy Lakes Recreation Area
  • Place, Willow Lake
  • Place, Willow Creek State Recreation Area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN

5 miles off Parks Hwy. Roads paved all the way & State maintained in winter. Located in foothills of Talkeetna Mtns in beautiful Susitna Valley. Willow’s centrally located to many popular & scenic places with hiking trails: Hatcher Pass State Recreation area(road over the Pass opens around beginning of July & closes in Oct), Independence Historic Mine, Nancy Lake State Recreation Park, Matanuska Glacier, Denali National Park. Surrounded by Talkeetna Mountains(east) & the Alaska Range(west & north).
* Willow Creek has rainbow, steelhead trout & arctic grayling. River in front of the rental is spawning ground for silver & king salmon. Recommendation: go with a local fishing guide unless experienced at fly-fishing. Fish for salmon as close as the confluence of Willow & Deception Creeks, 3 miles downstream from rental. Many streams crossing Parks Hwy are popular fishing spots.
* House on 27 acres of boreal forest sitting high over river. Vaulted ceilings, oak floors, large screened windows throughout, nicely furnished, cedar exterior siding.
*Beautiful view of the winding rapids. Long set of stairs & rooted trail to river bank.
*Animals in this area: river otter, lynx, moose, brown & black bear, eagles.
*Re-start of world famous Iditarod Sled-Dog Race is 7 miles from the rental on Willow Lake by community center, library & museum.
*Fall & Winter months you might view Northern Lights. Renters enjoy cross country skiing, snow shoeing & snow-machining. Snowmachine trail leading into Hatcher Pass is minutes away.
*Towns south of Willow: Houston, Big Lake, Meadow Lakes, Wasilla & Palmer. North: Talkeetna, Sunshine, Trapper Creek & Denali.
*People from every state and around the world have stayed, enjoying the peacefulness of this river-front property.
*
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
*Property’s kept wild, no lawns or flower beds. Wildflowers abound.
*No black-out curtains. Sensitive to the long light of Alaska summers? …bring eye covers. All windows have blinds.
*This is an adults only rental. Maximum occupancy: 2 adults
*Maximum # of nights that guests can stay is 10 consecutive nights.
*River’s change course from time to time. Sometime’s there’s a beach, sometime’s there isn’t. Some of our photos show when there is a beach, some show when there is no beach. That is just the way of a wild river.
*No check-ins after 11pm
*For all other info…Check AMENITIES Section.
*Owners live on property in separate house. Rental and owner’s house have separate driveways.

Keywords: House on river, private, 27 acres, wooded, easily accessible

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
Not baby/child proof House on river/class 2 rapids
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Do not strip beds or wash linens
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Maximum occupancy: 2 adults Couch not to be used as bed. No unregistered guests. Adults only rental.
No deep frying, no open broiling, no cooking bacon in oven, no oil/grease in any drain(use grease/oil can under sink. Don’t leave grill unattended.
No Check-ins after 11pm. Estimated time of arrival is required. Maximum stay allowed is 10 consecutive nites.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Willow

Located in Willow, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Willow Creek Studio, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Hatcher Pass Management Area and Willow Lake. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Willow, AK

What's nearby

  • Willow Lake - 16 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Gene Lake - 20 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Willow Creek State Recreation Area - 21 min drive - 12.9 km
  • Long Lake - 22 min drive - 15.1 km
  • Hatcher Pass Management Area - 47 min drive - 26.1 km

Getting around

  • Anchorage, AK (MRI-Merrill Field) - 93 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lead Dog Espresso - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Burnt Toast - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Roni's Chinook Deli and Pizza - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Trailside Cafe - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Sports Bar - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is MINUTES OFF PARKS HWY / RIVERFRONT ON 27 ACRES / WILLOW CREEK INN located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Willow Lake, Willow Community Center and Willow Public Library. Willow Creek State Recreation Area and Ruth Lake are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 162 out of 167 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 167 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 167 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 167 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 167 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was probably one of the best VRBO’s that I have ever stayed in. Cabin was right on the river, which roared all night long. We left the spot and the hosts were over and above in their hospitality. Definitely don’t miss this property!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home with excellent host

We had an amazing time. The hosts were very attentive to our needs and were only a text away if needed.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Boyd B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is my 3rd tine at this property. Amazing location on Willow creek makes it the perfrct hub for my adventures. With brathtaking views of the creek, this well situated cabin is amazingly comfortable and leaves you feeling ready for the next day.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric S., Maryland

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, beautiful house, gracious hosts!

We had a short but wonderful stay! Thank you for your hospitality! We will definitely return for a longer stay if we are in the area again!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

We enjoyed our time at Willow Creek Inn. The cabin was clean and had everything we needed. The creek was beautiful! We will recommend it to family and friends when they visit.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Casey M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Trip

What a wonderful cozy cabin! It had everything we needed for our two night stay. Sitting on the deck listening to the creek flowing was so tranquil. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heidi H., KENAI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden beauty

Very beautiful place.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Marti M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely cabin by flowing stream

This cabin was everything we could have hoped for. Beautiful setting, clean and well appointed modern cabin, and lots of homey touches. Paul & Ginny were gracious hosts. We would love to come back sometime.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca R.

Wonderful getaway!

We had a wonderful getaway at this cabin. The beach is just by the cabin and gave our kids hours of fun and us hours of relaxation. The cabin was very well decorated and clean. The owners have put in alot of effort and care and it shows.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2016

10/10 Excellent

colleen l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Probably the best VRBO that I have stayed in here in Alaska. Hard to beat.

Beautiful, well maintained cabin next to a large creek. Hosts are extremely attentive but give you your privacy. This is the second time I have used this cabin and already looking forward to the next.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

james z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home in beautiful setting

Paul and Ginny were perfect hosts. House was well equipped. Very clean. Great water sounds from Willow Creek.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy T G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Definitely will be back

Very cozy and comfortable. Super clean. Definitely will not hesitate to book again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Cabin

This was the best cabin we have stayed at in Alaska, we had everything we needed, beds were comfortable, cabin was clean bright and open. Best part was the back porch overlooking the river. We saw moose and salmon spawning our last night there.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Claudia B., Rolla, Missouri

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter Magic

Beautiful property inside and out. Easy to get to even in Winter. Host Paul is was knowledgeable and delightful. We hope to stay again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stephenie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Paul and Ginny were the most gracious hosts and had a nice warm fire started. The cabin was perfect, the location was perfect for us, and all communications were on target. We are already planning our next stay for 2023!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Corey S., Van Buren

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Great Experience all the way around. The kitchen was completely stocked, the house was comfortable, and the hosts very hospitable. It was very nice visiting with Ginny and Paul down by the creek. Completely enjoyed it!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Cabin

What a wonderful little cabin we stayed in. Very clean and had everything you needed. Paul was very helpful and even pointed us in the right direction for a nice winter walk. We even seen a bull moose out the kitchen window. Was very relaxing there. I am sure sumner is just as beautiful when the river is running. Thanks Paul and Ginny for making our stay a pleasant one. I would definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Incredible Property to Stay At!!!!!

So as my wife sit here at the airport waiting for our departure we already miss the experience we had at Paul and Ginny’s fantastic place. The communications with them throughout he booking and during our stay were tremendous and the cleanliness was spotless. The subtle little touches of cozyness spread throughout the cabin and the ability to hear the stream at night was amazing. We have stayed at many other places in our travels and Paul and Ginny’s place tops our list. Fantastic location as one can visit Denali as well as Seward in a days drive. Fishing is amazing! To the owners- our very sincere thanks for creating a place for us to stay during our 17 days in Alaska that created a lifetime of memories. We will for sure be back!
Stayed 17 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill, Broussard, La.

Amazing, peaceful retreat

This place exceeded ALL expectations. The cleanliness of the house is better than anywhere I've ever stayed. There were personal touches such as an ice chest with chairs near the water, peppermints in bedrooms, and soft music playing when we arrived. The bed was very comfortable and everything is very well stocked. It's an amazing peaceful house where you can relax and enjoy nature. The home was comfortable and roomy. The view is one in a million. Listening to the creek as you sit on the porch while admiring the beautiful wildflowers is wonderful. Or simply walk down to the creek and sit right by it in the chairs the owners provide. You will not find a cabin with a better view! The drive down Hatcher's Pass was one of the most beautiful drives I've ever experienced. The owners were only a text away to answer any questions. I would HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone wanting to visit Alaska. We spent 4 nights here and enjoyed every minute of it!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We absolutely loved this cabin! WAY before our arrival, Ginny provided us with SOOOO much information about the area, directions, where the stores were, things to do, etc. And then, from the moment we pulled up the driveway, we knew we'd love it....and we were right! It is supplied with everything you could possibly need (soap, shampoo/conditioner, laundry soap, bug sprays, bear spray, spices, oils, butter, foil, etc, etc., etc. The cabin was spotless, the beds were oh so comfortable, the river right outside your door is divine. Ginny met us on check in and showed us around.....always nice to meet our hosts! We asked if there were any fish in the river and she asked if we wanted some fishing poles...which we did....and her husband Paul brought them over. We didn't catch anything, but boy did we have fun! There's something real special about that river!! Thank you SO much for sharing this beauty with us. We had an incredible stay!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Will S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very clean, comfortable, and well-equipped modern cabin in a beautiful, tranquil woodsy setting right on Willow Creek.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

MaryJo L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Willow Creek Inn is hands down our most favorite & memorable stay to date. Each night, we slept with the bedroom window open to listen as the sound of the rushing Willow Creek put us to sleep. The cabin was absolutely perfect & everything was beyond our expectations. Paul & Ginny are truly amazing hosts. As we are visiting Alaska more often with work, we hope to stay again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Solitude

Met all expectations. Quiet and peaceful stay. Caught Trout and Grayling out front in the Willow and loved exploring the mat-su valley.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lorne H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Willow creek Inn cabin

We had a wonderful stay at the cabin. It is well equipped and was very restful to be there. The sound of the river is relaxing and being surrounded by nature is beautiful. The hosts were very helpful and welcoming. The listing shows an area where you can sit by the river but that’s not possible. There’s a small path you can walk to the water’s edge but no place to sit. Even so, there were beautiful wildflowers growing and it’s a great place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Cabin by the Creek

We loved staying at this cabin. Nestled among the trees next to Willow Creek this cabin was a perfect fit for us. It’s kept meticulously clean and has all the amenities you need. We enjoyed sitting out on the deck watching and listening to the water. We would love to stay again if we get back to the Willow.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Paul & Ginny

Host profile image
Willow Creek Inn has WiFi.
Just minutes off the Parks Hwy on paved, state maintained road, this is a beautiful and mountainous area. Home to many rivers, lakes and much wildlife. This 27 acres was purchased in 2005, knowing well it would be the perfect place for a wonderful vacation get-away because of the unique & wild beauty of the riverfront. Construction of Willow Creek Inn began in 2006 and was open for rental in 2007. People from all over the U.S. and the world have enjoyed this wonderful riverfront property.

Why they chose this property

This is gateway to Hatcher Pass State Recreational Area. WILLOW CREEK INN is centrally located to other areas popular with visitors. There's many things to do in Willow if you love the outdoors, love to fish or just enjoy scenic beauty & wildlife.

What makes this property unique

WILLOW CREEK INN is private. The river is 75 feet from the rental and the sound of the water is soothing. This portion of the river is not accessible for motorized boats, but a favorite for rafters & kayakers. Guests have spotted and/or photographed a variety of wildlife on the property. The river’s edge is accessible by foot. Great fly-fishing for rainbow/steelhead trout. If you are an experienced fly fisherman with the right outfitting there are gravel bars you can access for fishing. Willow has excellent fishing guides who will take you down the river in a raft. In the winter, snow-machiners use the 'old military trail' to gain access into Hatcher Pass. Winter renters also enjoy viewing the Northern Lights on cold clear nights in the Northern Sky.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests