Chena River

Chena River SRA https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aspunits/northern/chenariversra.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chena_River_State_Recreation_Area Chena River State Recreation Area is located east of Fairbanks. The recreation area is centered on the Chena River. Facilities include campgrounds, hiking, ATV, snowmachine and sled dog trails, a shooting range, fishing ponds, and several public-use cabins. Fishing for Arctic grayling is catch-and-release only in the river, but visitors may keep grayling caught in the three stocked ponds. The area is also noted for several concentrations of granite tors. The road through the recreation area ends at the privately owned and operated Chena Hot Springs resort.

For More Information: Northern Area Office Park History Thomas and Robert Swan came across Chena Hot Springs in 1905. When local Fairbanks residents learned of this resource, they requested access, and the U.S. War Department built a trail to the hot springs in 1913. Today, part of the Yukon Quest, an annual 1,000-mile sled dog race, is run on the old trail. 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451-2695 Welcome to C hena R iver State Recreation Area A Park for All Seasons Chena River State Recreation Area (SRA) encompasses 397 square miles of forests, rivers, and alpine tundra. You can hike, bike, dogsled, ski, horseback ride, skijor, snowmachine, 4-wheel, or snowshoe on over 100 miles of maintained trails. Winter Recreation Winter’s cold grip doesn’t put an end to recreational opportunities—instead park users snowmachine, ski, and dogsled on the winter trails. Public-use cabins are spaced so that skiers can reach them in a day, and local mushers use the area to train for dog sled races. Photo co urtesy o f Britt C oon Water Recreation The area around the springs attracted attention from gold prospectors and loggers as well. The Chena River became a central mode of transportation, carrying people to the hot springs and timber to the rapidly growing city of Fairbanks. With the advent of World War II, large numbers of servicemen settled in the Fairbanks area and developed the wild lands. The meandering, class I-II Chena River flows through the park, and is an ideal place for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, or sunbathing. River access roads (located at mileposts 31.6, 28.6, 28.0, and 27.0) and four bridges provide several choices for launching and ending float trips. Wildlife In 1967, Alaska legislators designated 15,360 acres as the Chena River State Recreation Area. One year later, oil was discovered in Prudhoe Bay and lands were rapidly parceled out and developed. Alaskans fought to preserve the remaining wild lands and their natural resources, and in 1975, 240,000 acres were added to the recreation area. Photo court e sy of Robe rt Ange ll Are you looking for wildlife? Chena River SRA abounds with wildlife including moose, bears, lynx, and a multitude of birds. During winter, snowshoeing is a great way to follow animal tracks along the many accessible trails. Don’t forget your camera! Photo cour tesy of Ro bert Ange ll urtesy of Photo co Angell ngell A f Robert urtesy o Photo co Robert Photo courtesy of Photo courtesy of Kyle Joly Photo courtesy Chet Fehrmann of Robert Angell Background photo courtesy of Robert Angell Alaska State Parks For additional information visit www.alaskastateparks.org Chena River SRA Highlights Fishing, Hunting, & Trapping Geologic Formations The Chena River, flanked by panoramic alpine ridges and towering landforms, cuts through this recreation area. The valley is anchored by Chena Dome (4,421 feet) to the north and the granite tors to the south. The granite tors’ weathered, craggy spires of intrusive granite rise above their surroundings. The two-toned Angel Rocks on the east side are the exposed tips of a large granite mass underlying the Chena River area. Enjoy these spectacular formations and breathtaking views from the expansive trail system and throughout Chena River SRA. Photo courtesy of Lucy Baranko Snowmachine & OffRoad Vehicle Use Areas Snowmachiners and off-road vehicle users delight in the abundant riding opportunities in Chena River SRA. Chena River SRA is open to snowmachines in all areas north of the Chena River, west of the south fork valley, and north of the east fork valley when snow depth is adequate to protect underlying vegetation. For information regarding winter openings call the Public Information Center in Fairbanks at (907) 451-2705 or visit www.alaskastateparks.org, under the “Current News” link. Campgrounds Cast a fishing line into the Chena River and there’s a good chance you’ll hook an arctic grayling. Since fishing in the Chena River is catch-and-release only, make sure to gently place the fish back into the water. You can keep fish caught in four ponds along Chena Hot Springs Road. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) stocks ponds at mileposts 30, 42.8, 45.5, and 47.9. An abundance of small game animals bring trappers and hunters to the park during the winter months. Sport hunting within the park includes moose, bear, rabbit, grouse, ptarmigan, and fur bearing animals. Park officials advise sportsmen to familiarize themselves with ADF&G regulations. Photo courtesy of Robert Angell Public-Use Cabins Chena River SRA has eight public-use cabins available by reservation online. Cabins are equipped with plywood sleeping platforms, shelves, a wood stove, kitchen counter, a table and benches, and an outdoor latrine. Located at milepost 27 on Chena Hot Springs Road, the Rosehip Campground is an ideal base camp for exploring Chena River SRA. There are 37 campsites. A handcarry boat l

Guide to Angel Creek Hillside Trail & Angel Creek Winter Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Angel Creek Hillside Trail Trail Access: Upper Chena Dome Trailhead Mile 50.5 Allowable Uses: ATV, Horseback Riding, Hiking, Biking, Snowmobile, Skiing, Dog Mushing Distance: 10 miles one-way to upper cabin Total Elevation Gain: 600 feet Difficulty: Easy Angel Creek Winter Trail Trail Access: Upper Chena Dome Trailhead Mile 50.5 Allowable Uses: Snowmobile, Skiing, Dog Mushing Distance: 6 miles one-way to upper cabin Total Elevation Gain: 150 feet Difficulty: Easy Angel Creek Hillside Trail The Angel Creek Hillside Trail provides year-round access to The Angel Creek Cabins (except during spring break-up). The trail stays high, contouring the hillside, offering many scenic views of the valley and surrounding hills. Maximum grades are 10% with an average grade of 8%. Connect the Angel Creek Hillside Trail and the Angel Creek Winter Trail during winter months for groomed loop trips of 8.5 and 15.5 miles. Angel Creek Winter Trail Park Access: Due to saturated soils during spring break-up, motorized trails are closed (except for hiking) from April 20th through May 24th. Contact the Northern Area office for closure dates; dates may vary. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/ chenareg.htm The Angel Creek Winter trail provides a more direct lowlands winter access to the Angel Creek Cabins. The trail generally follows the valley bottom with little elevation gain. This trail is closed to motorized use during summer. Cabins: Lower Angel Creek Cabin and Upper Angel Creek Cabins are both accessible from Angel Creek Winter Trail and Angel Creek Hillside Trail. Reservations are required to stay at the Public Use Cabins. To reserve them visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/north.htm Cabin Coordinates: Upper Angel Creek Cabin (N65° 1.503’ W146° 24.796’) Lower Angel Creek Cabin (N65° 1.917’ W146° 19.330’) Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Guide to Angel Rocks Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Trail Access: Mi. 48.9 Chena Hot Springs Road. Allowable Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding Distance: 3.7 mile loop Elevation Gain: 900 feet Difficulty: Moderate Trail Description: Special Features: Allow 3-4 hours to complete the loop hike. From the Angel Rocks trailhead, the trail parallels the North Fork of Chena River through mixed spruce and birch, before reaching a junction. Head right on the Angel Rocks Trail (the trail on the left is the Angel Rocks loop trail and a possible return route). The angel Rocks trail crosses a boggy area on a boardwalk before beginning the ascent through the forest. The trail turns sharply uphill for a short distance before coming to Overlook Rock (the first tor). It starts a moderately steep ascent, passing by many tors before emerging onto the ridge-top. At this point you have four choices: 1. Return on the same trail. 2. Head left and continue down the steep and rugged Angel Rocks Loop Trail; it travels through the tors on the North side of the ridge and down to the base of the hill. Look for trail markers. Once at the bottom of the ridge the trail leads back to the junction with the Angel Rocks Trail. 3. Head right to hike up the hill to the treeless alpine ridge for views of the surrounding mountains. 4. Continue on to the Chena Hot Spring Resort from the alpine ridge mentioned above (see Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail Guide). This 3.7 mile loop trail leads to unique rock outcroppings called tors. The tors formed millions of years ago when molten rock pushed upward and cooled before it reached the earth’s surface. The surrounding earth slowly eroded, exposing the less erodible rock pinnacles. Hikers will also find some interesting plant communities along the trail, especially in July. Look for broomrape and witches-broom near the first part of the trail, and purple and yellow violets along the stream. Sage, poppies, arnica, and dogbone can be found on steep, south-facing slopes. On north-facing slopes, you’ll find completely different vegetation. Plants such as moss campion, saxifrage and bunchberries thrive in the damp coolness found there. These plants are remnants of the vegetation that covered the interior 10,000 to 20,000 years ago. Safety and Considerations: Portions of the trail are steep and rocky, and can be treacherous. Wear suitable footwear. Weather can hamper visibility and make it difficult to find trail markers. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. Vehicles including mountain bikes are prohibited. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks,AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Guide to Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Trail Access: The trail begins at the Angel Rocks Trailhead at mi. 48.9 and ends at Chena Hot Springs at mi. 56.5 Chena Hot Springs Road Allowable Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding Distance: 8 mile traverse (one-way) Total Elevation Gain: 1900 feet Difficulty: Moderate/strenuous Trail Guide: Minimize your impact on the area by camping away from the trail, packing out what you pack in, and burying human waste away from the trail. The shelter cabin is located 4.8 miles from the Angel Rocks Trailhead. This cabin cannot be reserved and is on a first come first serve basis. Cabin Coordinates: (W146° 12.967’ N65° 0.690’) From the Angel Rocks trailhead, the trail parallels the North Fork of Chena River through mixed spruce and birch before reaching a junction where there are two options. Head right for the more-traveled and shorter route. Head left for a less-developed and longer route. Both ways pass by tors. Avoid cutting switchbacks to protect the easily erodible soils. Both trails meet again East of most of the tors (for a more detailed description of the Angel Rocks Trail & loop see “Guide to Angel Rocks Trail”). The trail towards the hot springs climbs a forested ridge and passes the last tor before emerging above timberline. The trail on the alpine ridge is faint in places and is marked with cairns. It eventually passes through two saddles as it descends into forest; the Angel Rocks Trail Shelter is located in the third saddle. The trail then continues the descent to another saddle with a junction. The shortest and easiest route heads right and is known as the Hillside Cut-Off Trail; expect several boggy areas. Go left at the junction encountered mid-way on this route. The Ridge Trail (to the left) gains more elevation and is longer, but is drier; there is also access to the boggy Bear Paw Butte Trail which offers modest views. The trails eventually converge again and lead to Chena Hot Springs. Safety and Considerations: Park Rules: Special Features: This route provides access to alpine tundra, views of surrounding mountains, and unique rock outcroppings called tors. The tors formed millions of years ago when molten rock pushed upward and cooled before it reached the earth’s surface. The surrounding earth slowly eroded, exposing the less erodible rock pinnacles. Camping: Portions of the trail are steep and rocky, and can be treacherous. Wear suitable footwear. Above timberline weather can hamper visibility and make it difficult to follow the trail or locate cairns. Portions of the trail and the North Trailhead are on private property; please be respectful. Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. Vehicles including mountain bikes are prohibited. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Guide to Chena Dome Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Trail Access: Upper Chena Dome Trailhead Mile 50.5 & Lower Chena Dome Trailhead Mile 49.4 Chena Hot Springs Road Allowable Uses: Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding Distance: 29 mile loop Total Elevation Gain: 8300 ft. Difficulty: Strenuous Elevation (feet) Elevation (feet) Hiking Time: 2-4 days for Backpackers Chena Dome TrailDome ElevationTrail Profile Chena 5000 4000 Saftey and Considerations: 3000 2000 1000 0 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 Trail(miles) Miles Distance Special Features: The Chena Dome Trail rewards hearty hikers with amazing views from the alpine ridgeline. The tundra is covered with wildflowers in July, and blueberries in August. At mile 8.5 from the upper trailhead is the site of a military airplane crash that occurred in the 1950s; stop and have a good look but don't disturb any artifacts. Trail Description: This 29-mile loop trail circles the entire Angel Creek drainage. Mile markers travel in a counterclockwise direction from the upper trailhead. Each end of the trail travels through forest for about three miles up to timberline. The rest of the trail follows tundra ridge tops and is marked by rock cairns. Each trailhead offers steep but scenic day hikes, and the entire loop is a good 2-4 day trip for backpackers. Always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Portions of the trail are steep and rocky, and can be treacherous. Wear suitable footwear. The route above timberline can be difficult to follow in inclement weather; the trail may not be obvious; hikers need to carefully follow rock cairns. Weather can change rapidly; carry rain gear, warm clothes, and be prepared. Camping: Minimize your impact on the area by camping away from the trail, packing out what you pack in, and burying human waste away from the trail. The shelter cabin is located near mile 17 from the upper trailhead. This cabin cannot be reserved and is on a first come first serve basis. Cabin Coordinates: (NAD83) N65° 0.825’ W146° 33.310’ Water Availability: Water sources are unreliable and are unsafe without treating. Make sure to purify or boil water before drinking. Carry at least one day’s supply of water. Water may be available at a saddle at mile 7.5, a spring at mile 9, pools at mile 11-13, a spring at mile 14.5, the trail shelter water catchment system at mile 17, pools near mile 18, and pools at mile 20.5. There may be snow banks in early summer. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Guide to Compeau Trail & Colorado Creek Winter Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Compeau Trail Trail Access: Mile 29.9 Chena Hot Springs Road Allowable Uses: ATV, Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding, Snowmobile, Skiing Distance: 18 miles one-way Total Elevation Gain: 2100 feet Colorado Creek Winter Trail Trail Access: Mile 31.6 Chena Hot Springs Road Allowable Uses: Snowmobile, Skiing, Mushing Distance: 5.7 miles one-way Total Elevation Gain: 400 feet Mike Kelly Memorial Trail: Compeau Trail: This multi-use trail provides year-round access to the Colorado Creek Cabin. Follow the blue/black trail markers for 18 miles to reach the cabin. The entire Compeau Trail follows an easy contour route with grades of 10% or less. The Compeau Trail makes a turn at mile 10; just past this turn the trail intersects the Mike Kelly Memorial Trail. You can also get to the cabin following the dozer line. After riding 5.5 more miles, the trail intersects a 1950’s dozer line; a sign marks this intersection. Follow the steep grade 3/4’s of a mile downhill before connecting with the Compeau Trail again. The last 2 miles gradually descend to the cabin. In winter, the Compeau Trail can be accessed from the Colorado Creek Winter Trail. Colorado Creek Winter Trail: The Colorado Creek Winter Trail provides shorter access to the Colorado Creek Cabin. Summer use is prohibited due to boggy soils. The Mike Kelly Memorial Trail is accessible from the Compeau Trail; it was constructed during the Boundary Fire in 2004. This trail is very rough and has steep grades, but the ridge offers stunning views of the Chena River Valley, the Alaska Range, and North towards the White Mountains. The trailhead to the Mike Kelly Memorial Trail is at the end of a 6-mile wood-cutting road known as the School Road. This un-maintained road leaves Chena Hot Springs Road at mile 18, next to Two Rivers Elementary School. The Mike Kelly Memorial Trail is 13.5 miles long ending at the top of a prominent ridge. The Compeau Trail joins the Mike Kelly Memorial Trail at about mile 8.5 of the Mike Kelly Memorial Trail. Colorado Creek Cabin Reservations are required to stay at the Colorado Creek Cabin. To reserve the cabin visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/north.htm Cabin Coordinates: (N64°58.233' W146°39.407'). Park Access: Due to saturated soils during spring break-up, motorized trails are closed (except for hiking) from April 20th through May 24th. Contact the Northern Area office for closure dates; dates may vary. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 (M ike Ke lly Me mo ria lT rai l) Chena Rivet State Recteation Atea Compeau Ttail & Colotado Cteek Wintet Ttail w@. �� . E s Projected Coordinate System: NAD 83, State Plane Alaska, Zone 3 Contour Interval: 100 Feet, 160,000 RATV � Riding R Snow- �mobiling CRSRA Boundary U � Hiking ;-:: 0.5 l!H 0.5 Fishing 1 Miles a 1 Kilometers Cabin Bridge Road Compeau Trail Winter Trail Non-Motorized Trail Multi-Use Trail (ATV) River Stream Produced by: Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Date Published: June 15, 2013. Cartographer: Justin Wholey This map represents differential GPS data collected during the Alaska State Parks Trail Inventory Project that was started in conjunction with National Park Service (NPS) Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance (RTCA) program and Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADNR) Information Resources Management (IRM). Trail Data was gathered with the assistance from Northern Region Alaska State Parks staff Alaska State Parks Northern Region Office: (907) 451-2695. www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks Alaska State Troopers: (907) 451-5100. Emergency: 911 The State of Alaska makes no expressed or implied warranties (including warranties of merchantability and fitness) with respect to the character, function, or capabilities of this product or its appropriateness for any user's purposes In no event will the State of Alaska be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, consequential or other damages suffered by the user or any other person or entity whether from use of the product, any failure thereof or otherwise, and in no event will the State of Alaska's liability to you or anyone else exceed the fee paid for the product 

Guide to Granite Tors Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Trail Access: The trail begins at the Granite Tors Campground Day-Use Area at milepost 39.5 Chena Hot Springs Road. Allowable Uses: Hiking Distance: 15 mile loop or optional 2 mile loop Elevation Gain: 2900 feet Difficulty: Moderate/strenuous Trail Guide: Special Features: This 15 mile loop trail provides access to unusual rock outcroppings called tors, alpine tundra, and views of both the Alaska Range and the Chena River Valley. The tors formed millions of years ago when molten rock pushed upward and cooled before it reached the earth’s surface. The surrounding earth slowly eroded, exposing the less erodible rock pinnacles. Camping: Minimize your impact on the area by camping away from the trail, packing out what you pack in, and burying human waste away from the trail. The shelter cabin is located approximately 7 miles in when taking the East trail. This cabin cannot be reserved and is on a first come first serve basis. Safety and Considerations: Portions of the trail are steep and rocky, and can be treacherous. Wear suitable footwear. Weather can hamper visibility and make it difficult to find trail markers. This guide describes the clockwise loop beginning with the East Trail and ending on the West Trail. This route provides a more gradual ascent than the counterclockwise route. At the first trail junction (at the bulletin board) go left; you will travel along the river on boardwalks through black spruce and bog, eventually crossing Rock Creek. In less than a mile, you’ll encounter a boardwalk heading to your right. This connects with the West Trail, giving the option of a two mile loop hike. As you continue on the East Trail on the 15 mile loop, you will ascend through black spruce forest and drop through 2 saddles before reaching timberline. This forested area burned in 2004. Follow rock cairns as the trail traverses the face of Munson Ridge; it then emerges in an alpine meadow near the trail shelter. From here, the East Trail ends and a less developed route begins that follows wooden tripods through wet areas to the tors on the ‘Plain of Monuments.’ The route then follows rock cairns through more tors. The West trail begins near mile 9; it winds through a spruce and alder saddle and emerges on a barren ridge top. It then drops down to the last group of tors. You will then travel through a sparsely wooded saddle and begin a steep descent through black spruce to a boardwalk on the upper part of Rock Creek. The trail then returns to the junction of the East and West trails. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. Vehicles including mountain bikes are prohibited. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Alaska State Parks, Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Guide to Stiles Creek Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area Trail Access: Chena Hot Springs Rd: Mi. 31.6 & 36.4 Allowable Uses: ATV, Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding, Snowmobile, Skiing Distance: 15 miles one-way from lower to upper trailhead Total Elevation Gain: 1700 feet *Note: The Stiles Creek extension is under construction during 2013/2014, and will be accessible from Mi. 41.6 when completed. Stiles Creek Trail: Stiles Creek Trail begins at mile 31.6 Chena Hot Springs Road and ascends gently to a ridgeline paralleling the road, with pleasant valley views at several spots. Stiles Creek Cabin Reservations are required to stay at the Stiles Creek Cabin. To reserve the cabin visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/north.htm Cabin Coordinates: (N64° 57.917' W146° 28.056'). Camping: Minimize your impact on the area by camping away from the trail, packing out what you pack in, and burying human waste away from the trail. Park Rules: Disturbing or gathering natural materials is prohibited in the Recreation Area, except for berries, mushrooms, and similar edibles for personal use. For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/chenareg.htm Park Access: Due to saturated soils during spring break-up, motorized trails are closed (except for hiking) from April 20th through May 24th. Contact the Northern Area office for closure dates; dates may vary. The trail is relatively level as it intersects with the Chena Hot Springs Winter Trail a half-mile from the trailhead. Keep right to continue on the Stiles Creek Trail; to the left is the Chena Hot Springs Winter Trail (this also leads to the Colorado Creek Trail—see map). After 1.75 miles the trail levels out and then climbs gently to a hilltop view of Chena Dome. The next five miles of the trail consist of a series of small ridges and saddles. Mile marker 7 provides a flat, open area with a great view of the Chena Dome Trail. Beginning at mile 7.7 the trail drops downslope to the Stiles Creek Cabin. At mile 7.9, turn right to the cabin or continue straight if you wish to bypass it. From mile 7.9 to 9.1, the trail is fairly flat with a gentle uphill rise. From an overlook of Chena Dome Trail, at mile 9.1, the trail begins a 3.5 mile trek over a series of ridges and saddles. At mile 12.8, there is another scenic overlook. This area is a pleasant place to camp overnight. From there, the trail continues downhill and flattens out. It intersects again with the Winter Trail. Take a left turn to reach the trailhead at the mile 36.4 shooting range on Chena Hot Springs Road. Alaska State Parks Northern Area Office 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451 - 2695 

Welcome to History View of men riding in Model T Ford with banner, Valdez-Fairbanks Trail, Valdez, Alaska. Northern Area AMRC-b62-1-a-83, Crary-Henderson Collection The Northern Area is steeped in history important to the development of Interior Alaska. For thousands of years, this region was home to Tanana Athabascans. When Europeans arrived, most contact with Alaska Natives was tied to trading posts and government explorations. Big Delta began as a trading post and, for the next 100 years, served as a transportation and communication hub for weary travelers, prospectors, traders, and military personnel. For More Fo re Info Information format fo ation 1RUW 1 UWKH KHUQ UQ Q $UH UHD D 2I 2IÀFFH 3700 37 00 Air irpo porrt Way Fair Fa i ba ir ank nks, s AK 99709 9 (90 07) 451 51-2695 51 Alaska State Parks Fairbanks, Delta Junction, and Tok Vicinity www.al www. alas aska kasttat a epar arks k .o org www ww w.al alas aska kast stat atettra ailils. s.or org g What would the region’s history be without tall tales of VWUHDPVÀOOHGZLWKJROG"3URVSHFWRUVUXVKHGLQWR$ODVND after news spread of the Klondike Gold Rush in 1897. 'XHWRWKLVLQÁX[RISHRSOHWKH860LOLWDU\VWDUWHG construction of the Valdez-Eagle Trail in 1899. In 1902, Felix Pedro’s gold strike, caused a stampede to the Fairbanks and Chena areas. Welcome With over 400 square miles of land dedicated to outdoor recreation and natural and cultural history, Northern Area Alaska State Parks provide plenty of room to play and learn. During long summer days, head outside to ÁRDWULYHUVDQGVWUHDPVFRRORIILQRQHRI the many lakes, go camping with family and friends, hike through forests and over hills, or take in some of Alaska’s history at Big Delta State Historical Park featuring Rika’s Roadhouse. Don’t even think about following the bear’s example and sleeping through winter! The parks in this area beckon visitors to enjoy the snow and invigorating cold air. Try your KDQGDWLFHÀVKLQJVNLRQJURRPHGWUDLOV snowmachine on fresh powder, go skijoring with your pooch, or enjoy the dazzling winter scenes as you hike along in snowshoes. Today, when you drive through the Northern Area, you are more than likely following historic routes. The Richardson Highway is Alaska’s oldest highway, designed to link the coast and the rich resources of the interior. The Alaska Highway is the result of an incredible effort during World War II when over 1,600 miles of pioneer road were built during one short construction season. Northern Highlights With 16 state parks spanning from Fairbanks to Tok, the Northern Area is ideal for a summer road trip. It also offers great platforms for launching into winter fun—the sky is the limit! ll g Lake Hardin Robert Ange by Photo Each park has something different to offer outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Summer in this inland region is very warm and perfect for water-based activities as nearly every park is located near a water body. Stiles C reek Tr ail Photo courtesy s in Chena Riv er SRA of Lona Boyars ky Fall brings with it opportunities to hunt for moose, bear, and other animals; loads of sweet, juicy berries for the picking also draw people outdoors. Winter settles in with a blanket of snow inviting skiers, sledders, dog mushers, and snowmachiners to enjoy the northern lights. Spring ÁRZVLQZLWKEUHDNXSQHZEXGVDQG Angel Creek Valley Photo courtesy of Brooks Ludwig leaves, and thousands of migratory birds, beckoning hibernating people to get out and stretch their legs. Moose calf Photo by Robert Angell A Division of the Department of Natural Resources IA L PRO DUCT FI Compeau Trail WŚŽƚŽĐŽƵƌƚĞƐLJŽĨ:ƵƐƟŶtŚŽůĞLJ OF Rika’s Roadhouse, as seen from the riverbank Photo courtesy of the Harold Washburn Collection C Harding Lake Photo by Robert Angell AL A Female mallard and ducklings Photo by Robert Angell OF SKA S™ ARK TE P STA 0— — E S T. 1 9 7 Alaska State Parks Public-Use Cabins Wildlife Wildlife of all shapes and sizes can be found throughout these parks, from water-loving mink to forest-dwelling lynx, and from bugle-sounding sandhill crane to willow-munching moose. Please remember that wildlife is wild no matter how docile they may seem, so appreciate them from a distance. Keep your cameras and binoculars handy—you never know what you will see! Pleasant Patches Delta-Clearwater River Photo courtesy of Justin Wholey River Floating Sandhill Crane Photo by Robert Angell 0RVWSDUNVLQWKH1RUWKHUQ$UHDDUHÀUVWUDWH boating destinations. Many are also prime locations IRUULYHUÁRDWLQJDGYHQWXUHV:KHQÁRDWLQJZDWFK for obstacles and avoid them well in advance to prevent disaster. Wear a life jacket—it can be the difference between life and death if your boat capsizes or you fall overboard. Interior Alaska is famous for its wild berries—you just have to know where and when to look. Blueberries, raspberries, crowberries, bearberries, low-bush cranberries, and black a

Photo courtesy of Bill Berkhahn Wood-Tikchik State Park Photo courtesy of Wayne Biessel Photo courtesy of Nicole Acevedo Photo courtesy of Mary Kowalczyk Background photo courtesy of Donna Olson Independence Mine State Historical Park Fort Rousseau State Historical Park Totem Bight State Historical Park Wildlife Viewing Independence Mine State Historical Park Photo courtesy of Wanda Scholze Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park Brown bear, Chugach State Park Trails Whale Watching Photo courtesy of Dan Kehlenbach Background photo, Wood-Tikchik State Park Alaska State Parks boasts an unrivaled multiuse trail system. Trails range from paved, ADA accessible paths to challenging mountain scrambles. Explore the map inside or visit us online at www.alaskastatetrails.org to view interactive maps and download printable guides. Photo courtesy of Justin Wholey Crow Pass Trail, Chugach State Park Swimming Snowshoeing Photo courtesy of Kyle Joly Chena River State Recreation Area Snowmachining Skiing Photo courtesy of Wayde Carroll Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site Wickersham State Historic Site Photo courtesy of Donna Quante Willow Creek State Recreation Area Running Photo courtesy of Kyle Joly Wood-Tikchik State Park Relaxing Alaska State Parks offers Shelter Island State Marine Park more than 80 public-use cabins for rent year-round. These coveted cabins are booked months in advance, so make your reservation today! For more information visit http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/index.htm. Photo courtesy of Andre Kaeppele Kachemak Bay State Park Pack Rafting Historic preservation is embedded in the Alaska State Parks’ mission statement. Our uniquely Alaskan State Historical Parks (SHP) and State Historic Sites (SHS) represent several eras of Alaska’s history and are as diverse as the places in which they reside: tour a hard-rock gold mining camp at Independence Mine SHP in Palmer; explore a WW II Army artillery base at Fort Abercrombie SHP in Kodiak; or view Tlingit and Haida designs on the totem poles and the clan house at Totem Bight SHP in Ketchikan. Rupe Andrews Cabin, Picnicking Public-Use Cabins Eklutna Lakeside Trail, Chugach State Park Photography Big Delta State Historical Park Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Birch Lake State Recreation Site Paragliding Pitch a tent in the backcountry or slide your RV into a drive-in slip. With over 2,500 campsites and limitless backcountry settings, there is no shortage of camping options in Alaska State Parks. Explore the map inside for a list of developed campgrounds. Orienteering History & Culture Camping For More Information: Visit us online at Alaska is big, wild, and scenic, www.alaskastateparks.org with a state park system to match. Encompassing Area Offices over 3.3 million acres of rugged, unspoiled terrain, Chugach State Park Potter Section House 18620 Seward Hwy. Anchorage, AK 99516 (907) 345-5014 the Alaska State Park System provides endless recreational opportunities year-round, and is a priceless resource for residents and visitors alike. Northern 3700 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 451-2695 Kenai/PWS P.O. Box 1247 Soldotna, AK 99669 (907) 262-5581 Southeast 400 Willoughby Ave. P.O. Box 111070 Juneau, AK 99811 (907) 465-2481 Kodiak District 1400 Abercrombie Dr. Kodiak, AK 99615 (907) 486-6339 Wood-Tikchik State Park P.O. Box 1822 Dillingham, AK 99576 (907) 842-2641 Mat-Su/Copper Basin 7278 E. Bogard Road Wasilla, AK 99654 (907) 745-3975 DNR Public Information Centers Anchorage: (907) 269-8400 Fairbanks: (907) 451-2705 Welcome to Alaska State Parks ATVing Backpacking Recreation From high alpine tundra to temperate rainforests, the state’s diverse landscapes are reflected in the parks, historic sites, recreation areas, trails, preserves, and special management areas that comprise the Alaska State Park System—a collection of 157 units Wood-Tikchik State Park Photo courtesy of Bill Berkhahn ranging in size from the half-acre Potter Section House State Historic Site to the 1.6-million-acre Wood-Tikchik State Park. Beachcombing Berry Picking Biking Bird Watching Denali State Park Photo courtesy of Erik Schlimmer Camping Canoeing Recreational opportunities are equally varied: hike through fields of lupine; pick blueberries under the midnight sun; snowmachine in Denali country; observe a pod of orcas from your sea kayak; or fish the world-famous Kenai River. Clamming Alaska State Park units are an essential component of the Alaskan lifestyle, with locals participating in wilderness recreation at a rate twice that of the national average. Alaskans make up over two-thirds of the 5.4 million annual visitors to our parks. Outdoors is “where it’s at” in the last frontier, and with a square mile of land for every resident, we have plenty of room for you to find your Alaska! Dog Mushing Climbing Exploring Fishing Hiking Horseback Riding The Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation provides outdoor