​The Nature Center has been working on solving our parking challenges since 1997.  When Friends of Eagle River Nature Center took over management of the Nature Center from Chugach State Park that year, we discovered quickly that parking could be a nightmare.  Staff and volunteers built an "overflow parking" area, but it was hard to reach without 4 wheel drive and difficult to maneuver.  But it worked to alleviate the situation on some of our busiest days.  By 2007, we were reaching out to the AK State Parks to help us find a way to add parking.  Chugach State Park administrators put it on their list of needs and we all waited.  We received grants to evaluate the situation and come up with ideas.  Neighbors provided feedback.  Money was scarce.

Thanks to the initiative of our seasonal staff member, Timothy Kane, and gardening enthusiast extraordinaire you'll notice that the garden plot in back of the Nature Center has received a total makeover.

Our 2020 Summer Trail Crew has been spectacular. Each Thursday morning they have been working hard to keep the trails in great shape, provide firewood for yurt campers, fix the building, beautify the gardens, and much, much more.  We can't thank them enough for all that they accomplish each week.