Nabesna Road near Slana begins at mile 60 of the Tok Cutoff Highway and is 42 miles long. It offers various ways to experience the landscape: scenic drives, hikes, bike rides, wildlife viewing, and picnics. Along the way, you can enjoy views of mountains, lakes, rivers, streams, and valleys.
Nabesna Road and the Landscape
The road lies in a valley between two mountain ranges. Notable landscape features in the area include the Mentasta Mountains and several small lakes and rivers, which offer opportunities for outdoor activities. This makes it possible to combine a trip along Nabesna Road with different priorities: time on the road, getting around on foot or by bike, and stopping to enjoy the views or watch wildlife.
One specific turnoff for a hike is at mile 36.8: this is where the Skookum Volcano Trail begins, leading 2.5 miles to a high pass. The trail passes through an extinct, deeply eroded volcanic system with distinctive geology. Panoramic views are available from there. The surrounding slopes offer opportunities to spot Dall sheep and Arctic ground squirrels; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed. Check trail conditions and stream crossings before setting out.
To compare distances, consider two hikes: the Skookum Volcano Trail runs 2.5 miles to a high pass; the Caribou Creek Trail is about 3 miles long. It offers views of the Wrangell Mountains, as well as the lakes and rivers below. The approximate three-mile distance is a guide to the trail's length, not an indication of hiking time or trail conditions.
Gold Mining History and Historic Sites
The Rambler Mine produced gold in the early 1940s; the site includes historic mine buildings and artifacts. The Rambler Mine Trail is steep, half a mile long, and climbs uphill to the remains of the abandoned mine. The mine buildings are dangerous, and the route is not maintained. Keep these conditions in mind when planning to explore the area's mining history.
The original Slana Roadhouse also tells the story of travel in the area. Built in the 1930s, it served travelers on their way to Chisana. The roadhouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is privately owned, and is not open to the public.
Planning and Activities Nearby
The Slana Ranger Station provides information about the park, road and trail conditions, and route planning. It is open daily from mid-May to mid-September. Check current seasonal hours and permit procedures before your trip.
Nearby, Porcupine Creek State Recreation Site offers camping, fishing, and trails. It is located at mile 64 of the Tok Cutoff; Slana is the nearest community. Campground operations may vary seasonally. This means trips along Nabesna Road can be combined with the amenities at the recreation site, though the two do not require the same kind of stay.
Rafting trips on the Copper River often begin at Slana River Access. Together with the hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities along Nabesna Road, this offers another way to shape your trip. The right combination depends on whether you would rather spend your time on the road, on trails, enjoying the scenery, or by the river.
Discover more destinations: Tonsina, Copper Center, Tatitlek, Cordova, Glennallen, Copperville, Valdez.
Back to the main travel overview: Valdez-Cordova Census Area.
