Check out the virtual tour of the Nugget Creek Cabin!

Nugget Creek cabin is one of five backcountry cabins located in the Chena Recreation area. This cozy log cabin offers 3 platform bunks and sits above the South Fork of the Chena River. Formerly a miner's cabin, Nugget Creek has that "authentic" Alaskan cabin appeal.

Location:
Summer Access: Mastodon Trailhead is at mile 38.6 Chena Hot Springs Road. The trail is 13.5 miles long. The first half mile winds through a spruce forest before entering an old forest fire burn from 2004. The next 2.5 miles wind along the east side of the Mastodon drainage before dropping down into Mastodon Creek at mile 3. From the creek you enter the 2019 fire scar that burned across much of the next 10 miles of trail. From the creek crossing the trail climbs 700 feet over the next two miles. A bench greets people at mile 6.5 where they can enjoy the panoramic view. From the bench the trail crosses over into the Nugget creek drainage where it circles high on the ridge. The last two miles descend to the Public-Use Cabin on the south Fork of the Chena River. Winter access is strenuous due to deep snow at higher elevations and should only be attempted by the most physically fit and prepared outdoor enthusiast.

Winter Access: by snowmachine, dog team, skis, or snowshoes. The 7 mile trail is marked with green diamonds starting at the Chena River. As you enter onto the river, travel west (right) approximately 1/4 mile on the far bank the trail is marked with a green trail marker. The trail winds back along the bank upstream before leaving the river. There is often thin ice or open water, even in late winter, so use caution.

GPS: W 146°30.829' N 64°50.506'

Special Notes:

WINTER ACCESS ALERT: The South Fork Winter Trail with access to Mastodon and Nugget Public Use Cabins has a river crossing immediately at the 31.4 mile CHSR Trailhead that requires significant cold weather to freeze sufficiently for crossing. Check ice conditions before reserving. Check condition report at https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/asp/curevnts.htm. If you choose to use the 13 mile Mastodon Trail, expect deep, unbroken snow and challenging backcountry conditions.

** 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.

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