Chitina, Alaska
Chitina-The Town
Chitina lies in a colorful valley, surrounded by
mountains. The Copper River is just
around the bend and in the quiet of night one can hear the rush of the
water.
Wildlife is abundant and the moose casually wander around town.
Squirrels, otters and mountain sheep frequent the area.
For the bird watchers; eagles, swans, jays and the busy chickadee are just a few
of the visitors.
View the fish wheels working the river for salmon, or fish the local
lakes for trout or grayling.
The town itself is steeped in history. Chitina was established at the turn of the
century as a railroad town for the
Copper River and Northwestern Railway. The famous railway carried copper from
the Kennicott Mine in McCarthy to Cordova, 138 miles away. Chitina was
soon established
as the transportation link to interior Alaska. The early railroad town was
a bustling
community supporting 5 hotels, a general store, a bakery and even a movie
theater.
At the close of the Kennicott Mine in 1938, Chitina was all but abandoned and
close
to becoming a ghost town.
Today Chitina is being revitalized and many of the historical buildings are
being restored.
The town offers groceries, gas, eateries, fishing charters, lodging, church
services and other amenities, all
well within walking distance.
If you travel on to McCarthy, it is a long 60 miles from
Chitina. Plan to take at least three hours
for the drive. The road is gravel, however generally maintained. Services
for shuttle and fly-in
are available and we would be happy to help with arrangements.
(907)823-2298
www.chitinachamber.org
www.traveltoalaska.com
www.mccarthylodge.com
www.valdezudrive.com
www.wrangellmountainair.com
www.Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Chitina - Kennicott - McCarthy - Chitina -
Copper River - Wrangell- St. Elias Mtns - Chitina - McCarthy
- Kennicott - Glennallen - Kenny Lake - Chitina
5/15/08