Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find an answer to your question here, please contact us.
Are drones allowed on the trails ate the Nature Center?
Drones are not allowed on the trails and grounds of the Eagle River Nature Center. Drone use is not permitted in Alaska's State Parks. Violators will be subject to penalties.
Are groups allowed to join scheduled programs or take self-guided hikes on your trails?
ORGANIZED GROUPS WHO WANT A NATURALIST PROGRAM: (such as camps, non-profits, scouts, schools, etc) who wish to attend a scheduled program (Jr. Naturalist, All-ages, Summer Walk, etc.) must make arrangements with the Nature Center as follows:
- If your group is made up of 5 or less people, no notice is needed. Keep in mind that if a program requires registration, you'll need to register each person for the specific program listed on our website (see Public Programs).
- If your groups is between 6-10 people you will need to get permission from the presenter at least 2 days prior to the program by emailing us at [email protected] or calling 907-694-2108.
- If your group is larger than 10 people you will need to make a reservation for a private program (there will be a fee).
SELF -GUIDED GROUPS: If your group is over 20 persons and you wish to take a self-guided hike, you must make a reservation with the Nature Center and pay a fee of $1/person plus parking if coming in individual cars (buses free). Contact our naturalist or call us at least 2 days prior. Due to limited parking and depending on how many guided programs we have, it may be necessary to decline your request (particularly during peak school field trip times in September and May). Even if your group is under 20 persons, please contact us so that we can let you know if your date/time does not conflict with other scheduled programs. We will suggest a less busy time. Please note, that parking is very limited at the Nature Center.
Are pets allowed at programs?
Pets are not allowed at programs unless they are specifically designated as "dog friendly programs".
Are pets allowed on the trails and inside the building?
Yes. Pets are allowed on the trails and at the overnight yurt and cabin facilities. They need to be leashed on the Rodak and Albert Loop Trail and in the parking lot and near buildings. If you forget your leash, please stop inside to obtain a loaner leash. All pet waste on the trails should be removed by the owner. Bags for pet waste are located at the trailhead.
Pets are not allowed inside the Nature Center building and educational yurt unless they are service dogs.
Pets are not allowed inside the Nature Center building and educational yurt unless they are service dogs.
Are the trails closed when the building is closed?
No. The trails are accessible 24/7. Check the trail condition board at the front of the building in case a trail is closed. Typically, from late July through October the Albert Loop Trail is closed when salmon return to spawn. At this time, there is a greater potential for encountering a bear near the creeks. This is a strict annual closure enforced by Chugach State Park law enforcement rangers.
Can I bicycle on the Eagle River Nature Center trials?
No, bicycling is not allowed on the Nature Center trails.
ONLY DURING WINTER MONTHS are fat tire bicycles allowed to access the Eagle River via the Lower Albert Loop Trail. Follow the service road (near parking lot entrance, go around gate) until you reach the Albert Loop Trail. Continue on the Lower Albert Loop Trail for about 3/4 mile to reach the river. See our trail map for directions.
For other bicycling opportunities check the Alaska State Parks website.
ONLY DURING WINTER MONTHS are fat tire bicycles allowed to access the Eagle River via the Lower Albert Loop Trail. Follow the service road (near parking lot entrance, go around gate) until you reach the Albert Loop Trail. Continue on the Lower Albert Loop Trail for about 3/4 mile to reach the river. See our trail map for directions.
For other bicycling opportunities check the Alaska State Parks website.
Can I carry a firearms at the Nature Center?
Yes, however, no discharge of firearms is allowed within a 1/2 mile of a developed facility (this includes all of our Cabin/Yurt rental facilities). Target shooting and firearms sighting are prohibited. Explosive devices, such as fireworks, is strictly prohibited within all Alaska State Parks.
Can I fish at the Eagle River Nature Center?
No, fishing is not permitted in the beaver ponds located by the viewing decks or any of the small streams/ponds located by the public use cabin and on the Albert Loop trail. For fishing regulations in the Eagle River Valley and on Eagle River visit Alaska Department of Fish and Game or give them a call at 907-267-2218.
Can I park and spend the night in my RV?
No, you are not allowed to spend the night in your car or RV at the Nature Center. The closest campground is the Eagle River Campground (at the Hiland Road/ Eagle River Loop Exit off the Glenn Highway).
Can I park on any of the roads if the parking lot is full?
The Nature Center's parking lot can fill up quickly. During the summer months, we have an overflow parking area that can be accessed by using a gravel service road. The service road is located just before the entry to the main parking lot on your right. It is too steep and does not have sufficient turnaround area for RV's or trailers.
YOU MAY park on Eagle River Road approximately 100 yards down the road from the roundabout/parking entrance where there are no "No Parking" signs. You may not park on any of the side residential streets. They are too narrow and you may receive a parking ticket. Parking in the roundabout and in front of the mailboxes is illegal. Parking in "no parking" areas is illegal.
YOU MAY park on Eagle River Road approximately 100 yards down the road from the roundabout/parking entrance where there are no "No Parking" signs. You may not park on any of the side residential streets. They are too narrow and you may receive a parking ticket. Parking in the roundabout and in front of the mailboxes is illegal. Parking in "no parking" areas is illegal.
Can I pick flowers of take rocks or other natural items from the park?
You are prohibited from taking rocks, flowers, plants, fossils, and historical artifacts from Alaska State Parks. You may pick berries or mushrooms for personal use only. However, picking mushrooms, berries or flowers is not allowed on the Rodak Nature Trail and section of the Albert Trail (out to Four-Corners - see map) so that they may be used for educational purposes.
Do I need to register for all the programs?
No. You only need to register for those programs which have a limited number of allowed participants or a fee (workshops or craft programs). Many weekend programs do not require registration, but remember that seating is limited inside the Nature Center.
How many cabin and yurts do you rent and can I drive to them?
We have 1 public use cabin and 3 yurts for overnight stay. No, you cannot drive to them. You must hike between 1.5 to 2 miles to reach them with all your gear. These are rustic facilities. RENT A Cabin/Yurt
Is a permit required to bring a group to the Nature Center?
A permit is NOT required for regular park activities of self-guided groups under 20 people. Any self-guided group larger than 20 people must contact the Nature Center and must acquire a permit from Chugach State Park.
Non-regular park activities require a permit from the Nature Center and/or Chugach State Park. This includes: weddings, commercial photography, commercial filming, barbecues/parties, commercial guiding, and conducting scientific research. Call the Nature Center at 907-694-2108 for more information.
Non-regular park activities require a permit from the Nature Center and/or Chugach State Park. This includes: weddings, commercial photography, commercial filming, barbecues/parties, commercial guiding, and conducting scientific research. Call the Nature Center at 907-694-2108 for more information.
What are the potential hazards on your trails?
- Wildlife can be found in the area and near the trails, including moose and bears
- There are tripping hazards such as tree roots and uneven terrain
- There are stinging insects in the summer, such as wasps
- Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain, snow, mud, and wet or icy trails
- The terrain is not flat on many of the trails
Where can one build a campfire?
You may build a campfire at designated backcountry camping spots which have fire rings (Echo Bend, and others along the Crow Pass Trail), on the banks of Eagle River beneath the high water mark, and in the fire rings at the rental yurts and cabin. Only dead, downed wood may be used for outdoor fires or bring your own firewood. Cutting live vegetation is illegal.
Where can we tent camp at the Nature Center?
Anywhere off the trail and at least 1 mile away from a developed facility (Nature Center) or trailhead. There are a number of designated camping spots along the Crow Pass Trail. Most are first-come first-served and do not require a permit. Only those who reserve and pay a fee for the Rapids Camping Area may use the food storage locker, picnic table, and metal fire ring. Fee: $2/person for up to 24 persons maximum.
For other camping policies contact Chugach State Park Headquarters at (907)345-5014; the Public Lands Information Center at (907)271-2737 or online at the Alaska State Parks website.
For other camping policies contact Chugach State Park Headquarters at (907)345-5014; the Public Lands Information Center at (907)271-2737 or online at the Alaska State Parks website.
Why can't I use my AK State Park parking pass at the Center?
The Nature Center is operated by a non-profit organization that maintains the trails and buildings in the area. We do not receive any direct funds from the AK State Parks. Our membership includes a parking decal(s) for unlimited parking for 1 year. Non-members may pick up a day-use parking pass for $5 inside the Nature Center or at the kiosk in front of the building. A payment kiosk is also located at the trailhead next to the summer overflow parking area.