Slana: Nabesna Road and Landscape

Slana and the Nabesna Road

The Nabesna Road near Slana begins at Mile 60 on the Tok Cutoff Highway and is 42 miles long. Along the route, you can drive, hike, cycle, observe wildlife, and enjoy picnics; the views include mountains, lakes, rivers, streams, and valleys. The road lies in a valley between two mountain ranges. The surrounding Mentasta Mountains, as well as smaller lakes and rivers, also offer opportunities for outdoor activities. Depending on your interests, you can include a drive, exercise on foot or by bike, wildlife observation, or an outdoor break in your travel plans. The road’s 42 miles make it a considerably longer driving route than the hiking trails described here; their lengths refer to individual trails and destinations.

Hiking Trails, Geology, and Wildlife Viewing

The Skookum Volcano Trail branches off the Nabesna Road at Mile 36.8 and runs 2.5 miles to a high pass; the route to the pass is therefore slightly shorter than the Caribou Creek Trail’s approximately 3 miles. The Skookum passes through an extinct, deeply eroded volcanic system and offers panoramic views, as well as opportunities to observe Dall sheep and Arctic ground squirrels on the surrounding slopes. These sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed; check trail conditions and stream crossings before your trip. The Caribou Creek Trail offers views of the Wrangell Mountains and the lakes and rivers below; trail conditions may vary. The Skookum highlights volcanic landscapes and seasonal wildlife viewing, while the Caribou Creek Trail offers views of mountains, lakes, and rivers.

Trails and Mining History

The Rambler Mine Trail is half a mile long, steep, and climbs to the remains of the abandoned Rambler Mine. The mine produced gold in the early 1940s; historic mine buildings and artifacts are associated with it. The mine structures are dangerous, and the trail is not maintained.

The original Slana Roadhouse was built in the 1930s, served travelers on their way to Chisana, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is privately owned and not open to the public.

Getting Oriented Before Your Trip

The Slana Ranger Station provides information about the park, road and trail conditions, and route planning. It is open daily from mid-May to mid-September. Check current seasonal opening hours and permit procedures before your trip. You can use this information to choose between the road route and a hiking trail before setting out.

Porcupine Creek State Recreation Site is located nearby at Mile 64 on the Tok Cutoff; Slana is the nearest community. The site offers camping and fishing opportunities, as well as trails. Campground operations and availability may vary seasonally; check both when planning. Rafting trips on the Copper River often begin at Slana River Access. Rafting is therefore a separate activity option from hiking, cycling, and picnicking on land.

Discover more destinations: Tatitlek, Glennallen, Copperville, Valdez, Cordova, Copper Center, Tonsina

Return to the main travel overview: Valdez-Cordova Census Area.