If you’d like to spend the night listening to the rush of a wild river, visit this snug yurt overlooking Eagle River with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Although perched at the edge of hard-core wilderness — deep inside the mountains — the facilities are close to trails maintained by the Nature Center itself, giving families with small children the option of combining short hikes with education. The facilities can also be used as a first-night stop for people doing the Cross Pass Crossing to Girdwood. They will be quiet: no motorized recreation allowed.
Located less than two miles form the Nature Center off the Albert Loop Trail, the yurt sleeps up to four, with two on wooden bunks and two on the floor. It features a deck, two chairs and a table, plus a wood stove with firewood stacked in a shed. The River Trail Yurt abuts the Eagle River, which provides fresh water in summer and a ski thoroughfare in winter.
Amenities
If you intend to gather wood in the forest, bringing a camp saw will be helpful. Although firewood should be provided at each facility, it’s a good idea to bring a camp ax to chop kindling. Each facility features a latrine, but you will need to bring your own toilet paper. Food should be stored in the bear-proof locker. Pond, stream and river water should be purified for drinking. The entries is not keyed but can be locked on the inside. Dogs are welcome. The trails are non-motorized — hiking, skiing, snowshoeing. No bikes.
What Can You Do At River Trail Yurt?
- Take a nature walk. The Eagle River Nature Center is known for its educational programs and well appointed trail displays.
- Explore Eagle River’s shore. The cabins are close to this wilderness river, with views of mountains and wildlife.
- Hike. The 21-mile trail connects the nature center with Girdwood over Crow Pass. Do it in one long day or make it a multi-day trip. Along the way, there are countless options for exploration.
