This little town by the river on the edge of civilization shouldn’t be overlooked. Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and cradled by the mighty Copper River, Chitina, Alaska, holds a special place in the state’s history. It isn’t the bustling boom town it once was, instead it serves travelers and explorers as the gateway to America’s largest national park.
Driving through Chitina, Alaska sort of reminds me of where I grew up in the south; just without the massive mountains, waterfalls, gushing rivers, and large mammals. The broke down cars, the disheveled cabins tucked away against the forests edge, the divisive political signage, and the shotgun holes in the street signs all warm my frozen heart and make me feel like I’m driving through rural Georgia again.
Quick Chitina Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Population | ~100 year-round residents |
| Location | Mile 34, Edgerton Highway |
| Distance from Anchorage | ~260 miles, ~5-6 hours |
| Distance from Glennallen | 66 miles southeast |
| National Park access | Western entrance to Wrangell-St. Elias NP |
| McCarthy Road starts here | 60 miles of gravel to McCarthy |
| Best time to visit | May through September |
| Winter | Ghost town — most businesses closed |
| Dip netting season | June 7 – September 30 (residents only) |
| Elevation | 1,648 feet |
My Experience with Chitina, Alaska
I passed through Chitina, Alaska every couple weeks for a year while working in McCarthy for National Geographic Channel. Wether we were coming or going, hitting Chitina was a big deal, it was either the last liquor store going in or the end of the rough McCarthy road coming out! After 3-4 weeks of living in dry cabins, hitting a paved road and finding the edge of civilization always felt good.
While we never spent much time in Chitina, Alaska my crew and I always appreciated it. During the winter months it was more of a symbolic mile marker, but on the shoulder months and in the summer its amenities were an oasis in the frozen Alaskan desert.
Furthermore, as a cinematographer always looking for a pretty shot, passing through the mountain and crossing the copper river always offered some inspiration. The area, no matter the time of year, is stunning and super unique. The copper river is always doing something wild and I could watch the salmon fish wheels for hours. Chitina, Alaska is strange bird all its own, I hope you enjoy this article about it.
Chitina, Alaska History
From Indigenous Echoes: Chitina, Alaska boasts a rich and storied history that dates back thousands of years. The area, originally inhabited by the Ahtna Athabascan people, was a vital hunting and fishing ground long before the arrival of European settlers.
The Lure of Copper: In 1900, the discovery of copper near Kennecott Glacier sparked a gold rush, drawing prospectors and homesteaders like moths to a flame. Chitina, strategically located at the foot of the Valdez-Fairbanks Trail, quickly blossomed into a vibrant boomtown. The iconic Copper River & Northwestern Railroad, completed in 1911, became the town’s lifeblood, transporting ore and supplies while fueling its growth.
Bustle and Bust: For nearly three decades, Chitina bustled with hotels, saloons, and general stores catering to miners, and railroad workers. However, the prosperity of Chitina, Alaska was short-lived. By the 1930s, the copper mines began to decline, and the railway fell into neglect, leading to a decline in population and economic activity. The town became somewhat of a ghost town.
Beyond the Boom: In recent decades, Chitina has experienced a small resurgence, fueled in part by the growth of tourism and outdoor recreation in the region. Today, the town serves as a gateway to the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, attracting visitors from around the world eager to explore its rugged beauty.
While much has changed since its early days, Chitina, Alaska retains its frontier spirit and rugged charm, offering visitors a glimpse into Alaska’s rich history.
Things to do in Chitina, Alaska
There ain’t a ton of stuff to do in Chitina, but there are some pretty unique things this little hamlet offers. It’s a great place to break up the long drive between Anchorage and McCarthy, or to stock up on supplies before heading down the bumpy McCarthy road. Here’s a list of some things to do while visiting Chitina, Alaska:
Watch the Fish Wheels
These weird contraptions look like something out of Kevin Costner’s Waterworld. You’ll see these ingenious devices on the banks of the copper river as you pass over the Copper River bridge, just outside of Chitina. These mechanical fishing devices are used by Alaska Natives to catch migrating salmon swimming up the river. I’ve been all over Alaska and I’ve never seen them anywhere else.
The subsistence fish wheels are essentially water mills made out of netting that turns with the rivers current. The wheel is mounted on a floating platform or anchored to the riverbank, allowing it to be positioned in the current of the river. As the river flows, the fish wheel turns, scooping up fish that swim into its baskets or nets. Once caught, the fish are lifted out of the water and deposited into a collection bin or chute for retrieval by the operator. Freaking awesome.
O’Brien Creek Overlook
If you want to watch salmon in the river without a dip net permit — or you’re just looking for a good pull-off with a view — head to O’Brien Creek. It’s a short drive down a dirt road from town, searchable as “Chitina salmon fishing” on Google Maps. The overlook sits right above the water and gives you a clear view of the salmon moving upriver. No permit required, no gear needed. Just pull over and watch one of the great natural spectacles in Alaska play out in front of you. During peak sockeye season in July the river is thick with fish.
Soak Up the History
Chitina, Alaska’s rich history seeps through as you wander its rustic streets. Once a bustling boomtown fueled by the nearby Kennecott Copper Mine, the town has seen busier days, but glimpses of what it used to look like still remain. If you’re a history buff, Chitina is certainly an interesting point of interest in the states history.
Explore the Chitina Ranger Station, located in the historic Ed S. Orr Cabin. The historic cabin displays photographs and info from the days when Chitina was a major transportation hub. Then move on and discover the historic tinsmith building in town. It was constructed in the early 1900s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it houses the Spirit Mountain Artworks Building, serving as an art gallery for visitors to explore. Then cap of your history tour with a stay at the Chitina Hotel, the 100 year old lodging hall is dripping in old frontier nostalgia, with updated comforts.
Liberty Falls
Liberty Falls State Recreation Site offers easy access to its namesake waterfall and creek, creating a serene backdrop for camping adventures. Surrounded by the majestic Wrangell Mountains, the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The nearby Liberty Falls Trail is a scenic two-mile trek with panoramic views of the Copper River and surrounding landscapes.
The Road to McCarthy, Gateway to the Wild
Today Chitina, Alaska primarily serves as the gateway to the vast and untouched Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States. While the small town also turns into a bustling red salmon hotspot for dip netting locals, it marks the edge of civilization for everyone else.
Unfortunately Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is one of the lesser visited parks. It’s just not super easy to get to, but Chitina is making it a little easier. Use Chitina to stock up and get ready for an adventure of a life time. The park is a great place to hike through epic valleys, climb mountain peaks, kayak glacier lakes, or embark on a backpacking adventure into the heart of the wilderness. It’s truly one of the worlds greatest hidden gems.
If you want a full guide on traveling form Anchorage to McCarthy check out our article: Anchorage to McCarthy, Alaska: The Journey is the Destination
Want to see Wrangell-St. Elias from above? Wrangell Mountain Air has been running flightseeing tours out of McCarthy since 1992, it’s one of the great Alaska experiences and worth building your trip around.
When to visit Chitina, Alaska
Winter is tough, let me tell ya. For most of the shows I work on, the network wants the “harsh realities of living off the grid in rural Alaska” That means filming when its cold and miserable outside, so that’s when I’ve spent most of my time in places like Chitina, Alaska.
I’ve been through Chitina nearly every month of the year, and during the winter months it’s a total ghost town. The folks that stay in town are inside next to their woods stoves. Plumes of smoke coming out of chimneys are the only activity you might see for days. If you’re planning a trip to the park, you’ll want to come in the summer anyway, as the conditions can be brutal. Visit Chitina, Alaska and the surrounding areas from May to September.
Chitina, Alaska Hotels and Amenities
Disclaimer: Chitina is a remote location, so be prepared for limited amenities and unpredictable weather, especially during winter months. Pack accordingly, respect the solitude of locals, and don’t assume everything will be open, its best to call ahead.
Chitina Guest Cabins
Located just north of town, Chitina guest cabins offer individual cabin rentals on a beautiful hillside. Every booking comes with an evening salmon snack tray and an optional tour of their fish wheel. Breakfast and freshly ground coffee are severed in the main cabin.
Phone: (907) 823-2288 Email: info@copperriverhideaway.com
Gilpatrick’s Hotel Chitina
If you need a room for the night in Chitina, Alaska, Gilpatrick’s hotel is the place. A relic from a the past, this 100 year old hotel is an operational time-capsule to past life in the old frontier. It’s not all candles and wool blankets though, the local owners have done a nice job of renovating the place. “All rooms have queen beds & private bathrooms. There is a full service restaurant, saloon, and beer garden.” The Chitina, Alaska hotel is open from May 1 to October 15.
Phone: 1-907-823-2244 Email: info@hotelchitina.com
Wrangell View RV Park
A little outside of Chitina, Alaska and next to the “airport”, is Wrangell View RV Park. They are the sole RV park near the entrance of Wrangell St. Elias National Park offering full hookups. Sites include readily available electric, water, and sewer hookups.
Phone: 907-823-2255
Wrangell view store
The last stop before you exit town and head down the dusty (or Icy, depending on the time of year) McCarthy Road, Wrangell view store carries a variety of grocery and convenience items, as well as fishing and dip netting permits. They say they’re open all year, but sometimes they might be out of gas, so fill up if you can.
Phone: (907) 823-2265
Uncle Tom’s Tavern
Chitina, Alaska’s local watering hole. If you’re in town and need a drink, this is the only spot to get one. It’s chock full of the normal dead things hanging on walls. There’s a pool table, occasional live music, and friendly service. Saddle up partner! Call ahead to confirm they’re open, Uncle Tom runs the place himself and hours can be irregular early and late in the season.
Phone: 907-823-2253
Chitina Grubstake
Besides the restaurant at Gilpatrick’s, which you have to be a guest of the hotel to eat at, Grubstakes is THE place to get a meal in town. And they only operate on limited hours during the summer months. So don’t count on getting a meal, but if you do, they serve massive $22 burgers and $16 hot dogs. Gotta love those Alaska prices baby!
Phone: (907) 202-2575
Spirit Mountain Artworks
This seasonal art store in Chitina, Alaska is renowned for its diverse collection of fine art, crafts, and unique gifts from the works of 100 different Alaskan artists. Its situated in a historic “false-front” building and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Phone: 907-823-2222
Getting to Chitina, Alaska
Chitina, Alaska is literally at the end of the road, the paved road anyway. So it takes some time to get here, but thankfully there are some options on how to do that.
Driving
You could rent a car and make the trek from Anchorage, it’s around a 6 hour drive, depending on road conditions. Fuel up and grab a bite to eat in Palmer, because the your options get slim.
Just be aware, if you plan on continuing on to the park, some rental car companies won’t allow you to drive past Chitina on the hazardous McCarthy Road.So if you prefer to snap photos out the window and not worry about rental contracts, you could charter a flight or take a bus.
Chitina, Alaska Airport
They use the term “airport” liberally here. The Chitina, Alaska airport is a strip north of town. Wrangell Mountain Air offers daily flights to McCarthy. Scheduled flights cost around $130 each way.
Phone: 907-554-4411
Kennicott Shuttle
The Kennicott Shuttle departs from Glennallen and has two stops in Chitina, Alaska. One at the airport and one at the gateway. The shuttle provides transportation to the Kennicott River Footbridge in McCarthy. Roundtrips are around $150.
Phone: 907.822.5292 Email: kennicottshuttle@gmail.com
Dip Netting in Chitina, Alaska
Salmon can be caught from June 7 to September 30, following Emergency Order schedules based on Miles Lake sonar escapement estimates. Participation is restricted to Alaska residents with a valid sport fishing license and Chitina Subdistrict Personal Use Fishing Permit. Which is obtainable online for a $15 fee. Permit funds support maintenance and sanitation services.
Dipnetters must log catches on permits, clip fish tails before leaving the site, and report harvests online by October 15 to maintain eligibility for the following year’s permit. Failure to report will result in permit denial. Check out the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website for more details.
Copper River Salmon, Why Chitina Is Famous for Fish
The Copper River is one of the most famous salmon rivers in the world — and Chitina sits right at its edge. Every summer, millions of sockeye and king salmon make one of the longest and most grueling migrations in North America, swimming nearly 300 miles upstream from the Gulf of Alaska to their spawning grounds. That brutal journey is exactly why Copper River salmon are so prized.
The longer a salmon swims upstream, the more fat it needs to complete the journey. Copper River sockeye and kings pack on extraordinary fat reserves — omega-3s, rich flavor, dense flesh — that make them some of the most sought-after fish on earth. When Copper River salmon hit the market in late May every year, they command premium prices at fish markets and restaurants across the country. A Whole Foods in Seattle will charge $40 a pound for fresh Copper River king on opening day. The people standing on the banks of the river in Chitina with dip nets are getting the same fish for the cost of a $15 permit.
The two main species at Chitina:
Copper River Sockeye (Red Salmon) — the workhorse of the Chitina dip net fishery. Deep red flesh, bold flavor, high fat content. The best sockeye you’ll ever eat comes out of this river. Peak run is typically late June through July.
Copper River King (Chinook) — the largest and most prized Pacific salmon. Copper River kings are legendary — buttery, rich, extraordinary fat content. The season opens in mid-May and the fish are gone fast. If you’re lucky enough to be in Chitina during king season with a dip net in your hands, you’re having one of the great Alaska experiences.
If you want to understand what makes these fish so special before you go, our complete guide to types of salmon in Alaska covers all five species, run timing, and what makes Copper River salmon different from everything else.
Dip Netting Charters in Chitina, Alaska
If you’re a local Alaskan and want to take advantage of the bountiful natural resource that is, Copper river Sockeye Salmon, Chitina, Alaska is the place to do it. It’s hard to find a more efficient way of harvesting the succulent species.
AK eXpeditions:
These guys do it all. They offer multiple different charters catering to full day fishing or an express 2.5 hour option. They also operate a tent campground and RV park with firewood and ice for purchase.
Phone: (907) 903-2329 Email: info@ak-x.com
Chitina, Alaska Map
Here’s a map of Chitina, Alaska and some noteworthy points of interest.
Chitina Alaska FAQs
What is Chitina Alaska known for?
Chitina is known as the gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park — the largest national park in the United States — and as one of Alaska’s premier dip netting locations for Copper River sockeye salmon. It’s a small historic town of about 100 year-round residents with a fascinating boom-and-bust history tied to the Kennecott copper mines and the Copper River & Northwestern Railroad.
How far is Chitina from Anchorage?
About 260 miles, roughly five to six hours depending on road conditions and stops. The route goes through Palmer, Glennallen, and then southeast on the Edgerton Highway to Chitina. It’s a beautiful drive through the Matanuska Valley and the Copper River region.
Is the McCarthy Road paved?
No. The McCarthy Road starts at Chitina and runs 60 miles of gravel, potholes, and occasional flat tires to McCarthy. It’s passable in a standard vehicle with decent clearance but worth knowing about before you go. Some rental car companies prohibit driving it, so check your contract before leaving Anchorage.
What is dip netting in Chitina?
Dip netting is a personal use fishing method where Alaska residents use large nets on poles to scoop salmon directly from the Copper River. It’s only available to Alaska residents with a valid sport fishing license and a Chitina Subdistrict Personal Use Fishing Permit ($15).
What are fish wheels?
Fish wheels are mechanical fishing devices that look like water mills made from netting. They’re mounted on floating platforms or anchored to the riverbank and turn with the river’s current, scooping up migrating salmon and depositing them into a collection bin.
When is the best time to visit Chitina Alaska?
May through September. During winter Chitina is essentially a ghost town, most businesses close, the year-round population stays inside next to their wood stoves, and the McCarthy Road conditions can be brutal. Summer brings the dip netting season, open businesses, and the most spectacular scenery. Late August and September are particularly beautiful as the tundra begins to turn.
Where is Gilpatrick’s Hotel Chitina?
Gilpatrick’s Hotel Chitina is a 100-year-old historic hotel on Main Street in Chitina, open May 1 through October 15. .
Is there food in Chitina Alaska?
Limited options. Chitina Grubstake operates on limited summer hours and serves massive burgers and hot dogs. The restaurant at Gilpatrick’s Hotel is available to hotel guests. The Wrangell View Store carries convenience and grocery items.
What is Liberty Falls?
Liberty Falls State Recreation Site is a short detour near Chitina with a scenic waterfall, creek, and campground surrounded by the Wrangell Mountains. The Liberty Falls Trail is a two-mile trek with panoramic views of the Copper River and surrounding landscapes. First-come, first-served camping. Worth the stop if you’re not in a rush.
More Alaska Wilderness & Adventure Guides
- Anchorage to McCarthy — the full road trip guide from Anchorage through Chitina to McCarthy
- Best Places to Live in Alaska — McCarthy gets its own section
- Types of Salmon in Alaska — the Copper River sockeye you’re dip netting
- Best Restaurants in Palmer — last good meal before Chitina on the drive out
- Alaska in September — one of the best months to visit this area
- Snowmobiling in Alaska — the other way to experience this country
- McCarthy, Alaska & Wrangell St. Elias National Park – The gold at the end of the rainbow