When I think of true seclusion and untouched wilderness, Eastern Alaska always comes to mind. Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredibly remote towns that offer peace, solitude, and a deep connection with nature that you just can’t find elsewhere.
Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a while or seeking a place where the modern world feels a million miles away, these ten secluded towns in Eastern Alaska might just be what you’re searching for. Let’s journey together through these hidden gems, each with its own unique charm and story.
10. Chistochina: Gateway to the Copper River Basin
Chistochina is a tiny community with a population of around 100 people, and it’s one of those places where I feel like time stands still. Nestled at the junction of the Copper River and the Tok Cutoff, it’s a haven for those who love fishing, hunting, and immersing themselves in Native Alaskan culture.
The town is deeply rooted in Ahtna Athabascan traditions, and I always appreciate the opportunity to learn about their rich heritage when I visit. There’s not much in terms of industry here beyond subsistence living and some tourism, which adds to its untouched charm.
What makes Chistochina truly secluded is its vast surrounding wilderness and the minimal development in the area. It’s the kind of place where you can disconnect from the modern world and truly appreciate the tranquility of nature.
Where is Chistochina?
Located in Eastern Alaska, Chistochina lies along the Tok Cutoff section of the Glenn Highway, about 42 miles northeast of Glennallen. Its seclusion stems from its remote setting in the expansive Copper River Basin, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and dense forests.
The limited road access and sparse nearby settlements contribute to its isolated feel. To get there, I usually drive along the scenic route from Anchorage, which takes about five hours, offering breathtaking views along the way. The journey itself is part of the experience, reinforcing the sense of escape from urban life.
9. Tanacross: A Village Preserving Tradition
Tanacross is a small Athabascan village with a population of about 140 people, and it’s a place where traditional Alaska Native culture is very much alive. Whenever I visit, I’m struck by the quiet atmosphere and the strong sense of community among the residents.
The town doesn’t have much in terms of modern entertainment, but that’s part of its appeal. I enjoy participating in local events and learning about the Athabascan way of life, from storytelling to traditional crafts. The mainstay here is subsistence hunting and fishing, which the residents rely on just as their ancestors did.
Tanacross is secluded due to its remote location and the residents’ dedication to preserving their cultural heritage, untouched by the bustle of modern cities.
Where is Tanacross?
Sitting on the south bank of the Tanana River, Tanacross is about 12 miles northwest of Tok, along the Alaska Highway. Its seclusion is enhanced by the vast stretches of boreal forest and the river that surrounds it, creating a peaceful barrier from the outside world.
The lack of nearby urban centers and limited infrastructure make it feel like a hidden gem tucked away in the wilderness. When I travel there, I usually drive from Tok, crossing the Tanana River, and it always feels like stepping into a different world where tradition and nature reign supreme.
8. Nabesna: Seclusion at the Road’s End
Nabesna is one of those places that redefine the meaning of remote, with only a handful of residents calling it home. Situated at the very end of the Nabesna Road, it’s a gateway to the northern reaches of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
I love venturing out here because it feels like you’re on the edge of the world. Activities revolve around hiking, backpacking, and exploring untouched wilderness—you might not see another soul for days. There’s a rich history of mining in the area, remnants of which you can still find if you know where to look.
Nabesna’s seclusion is due not just to its location but also to the rugged road that leads here, which can be challenging even in the best conditions.
Where is Nabesna?
Nabesna is located in Eastern Alaska, northeast of Glennallen, and is reachable via the 42-mile-long Nabesna Road, one of only two roads that enter Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
The area’s solitude is amplified by the fact that the road is often rough and unmaintained, discouraging casual visitors. To get there, I usually prepare my vehicle for the gravel road and check conditions ahead of time, as parts can be washed out or muddy.
Its remote position at the end of a long and seldom-traveled road truly makes Nabesna feel like a last frontier, perfect for the adventurous spirit.
7. Northway: Remote Community Amidst Forests
Northway is a small community with a population hovering around 70, and every time I visit, I’m struck by the dense boreal forests that envelop the area. The town is spread out, adding to the feeling of isolation and tranquility.
For outdoor enthusiasts like me, it’s a paradise for fishing and wildlife viewing—bears, moose, and an array of bird species are common sights. The people here lead a subsistence lifestyle, relying on the land and traditions passed down through generations.
Northway’s remoteness and limited infrastructure make it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Northway?
Northway is located near the eastern border of Alaska, close to the Alaska Highway, and not far from the Canadian border. Its seclusion comes from being nestled in the vast expanse of the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, with miles of wilderness in every direction.
To reach Northway, I usually drive the Alaska Highway from Tok, heading east for about 50 miles. The journey itself is a scenic drive through unspoiled landscapes, reinforcing just how far removed Northway is from the bustle of city life.
6. Tetlin: Serenity Near the Border
Tetlin is a quiet village of approximately 130 people, and it’s a place where I find a unique peace that’s hard to describe. The village is adjacent to the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, making it a prime spot for bird-watching and experiencing the vast wetlands that characterize the area.
The residents primarily engage in subsistence hunting and fishing, maintaining a way of life closely tied to the land. What makes Tetlin so secluded is not just its remote location but also the serene landscapes that surround it, offering a tranquility that’s rare to find elsewhere.
Where is Tetlin?
Located in Eastern Alaska near the Canadian border, Tetlin is about 20 miles southeast of Tok along the Alaska Highway. Its seclusion is amplified by the expansive wetlands and the lack of nearby urban centers, making it an oasis of calm in a remote setting.
Getting there involves a drive along the Alaska Highway, where I often find myself stopping to take in the stunning vistas. The remoteness of Tetlin makes it feel like a hidden sanctuary, perfect for those looking to escape into nature.
5. Mentasta Lake: An Athabascan Village Retreat
With a population of around 100, Mentasta Lake is a tranquil Athabascan village that I find incredibly inviting. Set on the shores of the serene Mentasta Lake, it’s an ideal spot for fishing, canoeing, and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
The community is rich in Native Alaskan culture, and I’ve always appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the residents. Subsistence living is the mainstay here, with hunting and fishing being central to daily life.
Mentasta Lake’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the untouched wilderness that envelops it, making it a peaceful retreat away from the modern world.
Where is Mentasta Lake?
Mentasta Lake is situated in Eastern Alaska, northwest of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, along the Tok Cutoff highway. Its remoteness is heightened by the surrounding mountains and forests, which create a natural barrier from the outside world.
To get there, I typically drive from Tok, heading southwest for about 60 miles along a picturesque route. The journey through the rugged landscape adds to the sense of isolation, and arriving at Mentasta Lake always feels like stepping into a tranquil haven.
4. Slana: Edge of the Wild
Slana is a small community of about 147 people, sitting at the northern entrance to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, and every time I’m there, I feel like I’m on the doorstep of adventure.
The town serves as a starting point for explorers and outdoor enthusiasts wanting to delve into the vast wilderness. Activities include hiking, hunting, and fishing, with opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitats.
Historically, Slana had some mining activity, but today, subsistence living and a bit of tourism are the primary ways of life. Its secluded nature stems from its location at the edge of America’s largest national park, far from the trappings of urban life.
Where is Slana?
Located in Eastern Alaska along the Tok Cutoff, Slana is about 85 miles northeast of Glennallen. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the rugged terrain and the immense Wrangell-St. Elias National Park borders it.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through remote landscapes, and I always make sure my vehicle is ready for the journey. The lack of nearby services and communities reinforces Slana’s status as a gateway to the wild, perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.
3. Chisana: Alaska’s Isolated Ghost Town
Chisana is perhaps one of the most remote places I’ve ever visited, and with virtually no permanent residents, it truly feels like a step back in time. Once a bustling gold mining town in the early 1900s, it now stands as a ghost town nestled deep in the Wrangell Mountains.
Exploring the abandoned buildings and mining relics is like piecing together a forgotten chapter of Alaska’s history. Access to Chisana is primarily by air, which only adds to the sense of isolation and adventure. Its seclusion is unparalleled, offering an experience of solitude and connection with the raw Alaskan wilderness.
Where is Chisana?
Chisana is located in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Eastern Alaska. Its extreme seclusion comes from being accessible only by small plane or via rugged trails that can take days to traverse.
When I plan a trip to Chisana, I arrange for a bush flight from Tok or McCarthy, flying over breathtaking mountain ranges and glaciers. The logistics of getting there underscore just how isolated Chisana is, making it a destination for those truly seeking to escape the modern world.2. Eagle: Gateway to the Yukon
2. Eagle: Gateway to the Yukon
Eagle is a historic town with a population of about 86, perched on the banks of the mighty Yukon River. I find Eagle fascinating because of its rich history dating back to the gold rush era.
The town is home to Fort Egbert, a U.S. Army base established in the late 19th century, which I love exploring for its well-preserved buildings and artifacts. Activities here revolve around river life—boating, fishing, and enjoying the serene wilderness that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Eagle’s seclusion is due in part to its distance from major highways and its location along the Canadian border, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in history.
Where is Eagle?
Located in Eastern Alaska, Eagle is about 200 miles east of Fairbanks, accessible via the Taylor Highway. The town’s remoteness is heightened by the fact that the road is only open during the summer months, and even then, it’s a long, winding journey through rugged terrain.
When I travel to Eagle, I prepare for a scenic and sometimes challenging drive that emphasizes just how far removed it is from bustling cities. The town’s position along the Yukon River and near the border enhances its secluded feel, making it a unique gateway to the wilderness beyond.
1. Chicken: A Remote Gold Mining Community
Chicken is perhaps one of the quirkiest and most charming places I’ve ever stumbled upon, with a tiny population of just about 7 hearty souls.
The town got its unique name because the original settlers couldn’t agree on the spelling of “ptarmigan,” the local wild bird, and opted for “Chicken” instead. I love visiting Chicken for its rich gold mining history, and it’s one of the few places where you can still pan for gold and feel like an old-time prospector.
The town’s few businesses, like the Chicken Gold Camp, offer a glimpse into frontier life, and the annual Chickenstock Music Festival is a hidden gem worth experiencing. Chicken’s seclusion is a big part of its charm, surrounded by rolling hills and expansive wilderness, far from the beaten path.
Where is Chicken?
Located in Eastern Alaska along the Taylor Highway, Chicken is about 66 miles southeast of Tok. The town’s remote location is underscored by the rough, gravel roads that lead there, which are only open during the summer months.
When I make the journey to Chicken, I’m always prepared for a rugged drive through some of Alaska’s most beautiful and untouched landscapes. The limited accessibility and minimal population make Chicken feel like a well-kept secret, a place where adventure and history intertwine away from the hustle of modern life.
