The river continues through state, private and national wildlife refuge land for a total of 344 miles before emptying into the Yukon River about halfway between Fort Yukon and Beaver. Birch Creek has road access at its headwaters at MP 94 Steese Highway, at MP 140, and at MP 126. The water is predominately Class I, but there are some Class II and Class III areas.
Birch Creek provides for a wide variety of primitive-based recreation opportunities.
Attractive, natural campsites are abundant along the river. Winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and trapping. The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, traverses portions of Birch Creek National Wild River. The Birch Creek National Wild River Corridor is closed to off-highway vehicle use from 30 April through 15 October. Winter use of snowmachines in the corridor is limited to 1500 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or less.