Adventure awaits in Alaska’s National Forests during Great American Outdoors Month

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Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 2:10 PM

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Juneau, Alaska (KINY) - Ready to experience an Alaska National Forest adventure? June is a great time to do it while Great American Outdoors Month is celebrated.

From world-class hiking trails to cabins and campgrounds, the Chugach and Tongass National Forests have something for everyone.  

A few top places to explore in the Tongass National Forest are:

•    Auk Village Campground: Stay in an established campsite near a scenic beach in Juneau.
•    Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site: View brown and black bears fishing for salmon near Hyder.
•    Skater’s Cabin: Enjoy a family picnic on the shore of Mendenhall Lake in Juneau.
•   Find more sites on the Tongass here.

A few top places to explore in the Chugach National Forest are:

•    Begich, Boggs Visitor Center: Tour exhibits, attend educational presentations and learn about the Chugach National Forest.
•    Crooked Creek Information Site: View spawning chum and pink salmon, birds, and spot the occasional bear in Valdez.
•    Trail of Blue Ice: A scenic and easy trail for hiking and biking in the heart of Portage Valley.
•    Find more sites on the Chugach here.

Use these key tips for a successful adventure:

•    Make it special. Use this opportunity to create new memories and traditions or celebrate long-lasting ones on Alaska’s National Forests – where nature, people, and tradition come together.
•    Stay flexible. Weeknights and non-holiday weekends may have fewer visitors with more open camping spots and fewer people on the trails.
•    Try a new location. There are many spots on both the Chugach and Tongass National Forests that have exciting outdoor opportunities to offer.
•    Remember to have fun. Leave no trace and recreate responsibly. 

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