Chugach National Forest
The Chugach National Forest, roughly the size of New Hampshire, has a geographic diversity that is truly unique among national forests. The 5,940,000-acre forest spans three distinct landscapes, extending from the Kenai Peninsula to Prince William Sound and ending in the Copper River Delta. The Chugach National Forest has a plethora of recreational opportunities. Hikers and mountain bikers have access to hundreds of miles of trails, with many excellent options for overnight backpacking trips.
Boating and kayaking are popular activities in Prince William Sound's calm, protected waters. The Chugach National Forest also has a number of fishing spots. Anglers can target rainbow, cutthroat trout, as well as Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling, and all five Pacific salmon species. Many of the fishing spots are easily accessible, with roadside lakes and rivers providing anglers with the opportunity to catch that trophy fish.
There are numerous overnight trip options in the Chugach National Forest. The forest has 15 campgrounds, the majority of which are located along the Kenai Peninsula's road system, making them easily accessible to RV and tent campers. 42 public use cabins are scattered throughout the forest, nestled in scenic spots on lakes, quiet forests, and in beautiful mountain passes.
With the snow comes even more recreation opportunities in winter. The Chugach National Forest is a popular destination for cross-country and backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, and snowmobiling.
- Tripadvisor Rating: 5.0/5
- Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/chugach
- Admission Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily
- Address: Seward, AK 99664
