Description

Public use cabin near airstrip:

Cabin location: N62.065789, W142.042072
Refer to USGS Maps: Nabesna 1:250,000; Nabesna1:63,360 (A- 3)

Too Much Johnson Cabin is 11 feet by 15 feet in size, sleeps up to two people. Cabin contains 2 standard twin- size wooden bunks, a table and chairs, a wood stove, fire extinguisher, info bulletin board, and pit toilet. Water is not available near the cabin, but from a seasonal spring located 1/4 mile northeast of the cabin on Chathenda Creek. The cabin is located in the historic mining settlement of Chisana.

Recreational Opportunities: Excellent opportunity for extended treks along the Chisana River or the Gold Hill historic mining district, situated 10 miles to the northwest.

Special considerations: There are numerous bugs; head nets are strongly advised during June, July, and August. Obtain firewood from dead and down wood. Chisana is residentially occupied, private lands are scattered around the area.

Today, Chisana enjoys a seasonal population of about twenty- five. A few persistent placer miners continue to work the district's creeks. The spiritual heirs of the stampeders, they continue their predecessor's quest, ever searching for that one rich strike. There are bed and breakfasts and guide/outfitters in this area that is accessible only by small aircraft. Some adventurous hikers retrace the steps of the early stampeders and make the trek
from Chisana to McCarthy. This is a difficult route and should only be attempted by experienced backcountry travelers.

As you hike around Chisana you will see ruins of structures and historic artifacts throughout the area. Please don't remove or relocate anything. They provide important clues to the story of the people who followed the lure of gold to Chisana. Many of the historic structures are located on private property. Public easements are marked, so please respect private property while at the site. The National Park Service has restored four log buildings (including Too Much Johnson Cabin) in the original townsite.