The Tongass and Chugach National Forests in Alaska offer opportunities for remote adventures and experiences. On these National Forests, visitors can hike in rainforests, walk on glaciers, watch brown bears catching salmon, and, if it is the right time of year, see the northern lights. It was the remote nature of visiting these Forests and the unpredictable Alaskan weather that led the Forest Service to develop cabins for the public to use starting in the 1930s. Today there are nearly 200 cabins available for the public to reserve, providing visitors with a safe place to explore our nation’s two largest National Forests. The NFF is excited to contribute to the history of providing cabins to the public by partnering with the Forest Service to construct and renovate cabins on Alaska’s National Forests.
Need For Renovations and New Cabins
Many existing cabins have experienced decades of use and need repairs and renovations. From sinking foundations and leaking roofs, to replacing furniture, there are a variety of updates that are needed. In addition, the growing interest in recreation in Southeast and Southcentral Alaska has created a demand for cabin rentals that far exceeds availability.
PHOTO: The Big Shaheen Cabin was built on the Tongass by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938.
