As the second largest National Forest in the United States, Chugach National Forest, in central Alaska, has almost 7 million acres of wide-open space to explore.

Even though almost 30% of the forest is covered in ice, the area is very popular for hiking, kayaking, camping, and snowshoeing year around.

8 Things to see when you visit Chugach National Forest:

–       Hike the Portage Glacier and Valley

–       Fish for salmon on the Russian River

–       Rent a rustic cabin near Copper River Highway

–       Take a guided natural Alaskan canoe trip to see the glaciers

–       Mountain bike at Resurrection Pass Trail

–       Bird watch for Bald Eagles (they have the largest population in the entire US)

–       Go Whale watching

–       Trace the path of black bears and grizzly bears

Fun Fact: US Olympic skiers are using the backcountry to prep for the 2014 Sochi Games next year, using the high altitude and perfect skiing conditions to help strengthen their chances of winning gold.

 

Photo by Paxson Woelber.