By Erin Cole
For The Cordova Times
Remote cabins provided by the U.S. Forest Service have been in use on public land for over a century, and some of the oldest are still available today. In that tradition, the Cordova Ranger District hosts 16 of Chugach National Forest’s 42 public use cabins, available to anyone year-round.
It is an incredible opportunity for vacationers to relax in a secluded shelter warmed by a wood stove, but anyone who calls the Chugach home can also enjoy these remote sites. While many require boat or air travel to visit, the three cabins nearest Cordova are accessible by road.
Northeast of town, those with the spirit of adventure can hike along a valley floor beside towering mountains teeming with life to Power Creek Cabin, cozily screened from view on a hillside. A morning hike in winter reveals the glimmer of frosted branches warming and melting as the sun rises.
For a shorter hike, McKinley Trail Cabin sits 80 yards off the Copper River Highway, the only remaining structure in the historic town of Alaganik. Built in 1917 during a period when rail was the primary mode of transportation for the Copper River Delta, its log construction, sphagnum moss chinking, and V-notching are unique when compared to the other cabins in the area.
Down the trail, McKinley Lake Cabin affords a more remote setting and proximity to historic Lucky Strike Mine. Lucky Strike includes remains of the McKinley Lake Mining Company, operated from 1906 to 1912, and a private operation by a local Cordovan from the 1920s to late 1950s. Interpretive signs provide visitors with information about mine shafts, buildings, and how they were used. Plan carefully, as weather can change between Cordova and these nearby cabins.
To explore opportunities on the Chugach and nationwide, the Interactive Visitor Map at fs.fed.us/ivm is an incredible tool. Search for cabins, campgrounds, biking and more with this dynamic map. Whether traveling from afar or exploring your local area, visit recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777 for cabin reservations. Current rates are $30-$85 a night forest-wide. Each dollar spent is reinvested into Chugach National Forest cabin maintenance and improvement, providing for the use of future generations.
Visit the Cordova Ranger District Office at 612 2nd Street for information and assistance. Plan well, be prepared, and always keep exploring.
Author Erin Cole works for the USDA Forest Service, Chugach National Forest, Cordova Ranger District.
