The Mary Shields Cabin is one of six front country Cabins located in the Chena River State Recreation Area and is road accessible. The cabin is supplied with a woodstove, table, seat, broom, axe, and shovel. Please help keep it neat and attractive for those who will use it after your visit.

Mary Shields was a trailblazing Alaskan dog musher whose life and legacy helped shape both the sport and the local mushing community. In 1974, she made history as the first woman to finish the Iditarod, paving the way for generations of women on the trail. She later went on to complete multiple Yukon Quests and other long-distance races, driven by her deep love of adventure. Known for her strong bond with her dogs, her generosity toward fellow mushers, and her fiercely independent spirit, Shields inspired countless people to take to the trail. A longtime resident of the Fairbanks area, Mary Shields passed on July 14, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving a legacy across Alaska and beyond. This memorial cabin honors her enduring impact on dog mushing and the freedom, kindness, and joy she brought to life on the trail.

Location:
The Mary Shields Cabin can be accessed at the Stiles Creek Extension trailhead, located at 41.6 mile Chena Hot Springs Road. This is a multi-use trail which is open to hiking, biking, horseback, skiing, skijor, dog sled, snowshoe, ATV and Snowmachine. Follow the driveway to the locked gate. The gate code and cabin door code will be provided with your reservation.

GPS N 64° 55’41.94” W 146° 19’24.53” 

Special Notes:
The combination to the lock on the door is provided when the cabin is rented.

The Stiles Creek Extension trail nearby the Mary Shields Cabin is frequented by both snowmachines, ATVs and non-motorized users to access the Stiles Creek Cabin 8 miles away. However, the Stiles Creek Extension trail from the Stiles Creek Cabin is infrequently groomed in winter, so if you choose to use the trail, expect deep, unbroken snow and challenging backcountry conditions. You can check the trail conditions report at https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/asp/curevnts.htm

** Pets must be under control at all times and you are responsible for cleaning up your pet's waste.

Pack out everything you pack in.

Check for Availability on Reserve America