Located about two miles up the Iditarod Trail and a short hike beyond the Rapids Camp area, this yurt offers both river access and forested surroundings. 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 Yukla Yurt can be used as a first-night stop for people doing the Cross Pass Crossing to Girdwood. It's also a great base for exploring the valley or for taking a hike on the upper half of the Dew Mound Trail. The area will be quiet: no motorized recreation allowed. This yurt is the furthest from Nature Center, with a more remote feel than Rapids Camp Yurt.
Amenities
This yurt sleeps up to six on plywood bunks and features four chairs and a table, a woods stove with firewood stacked in a shed, and a deck. 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. The closest water source is Eagle River. Pond, stream and river water should be purified for drinking. None of the entries are 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 Yukla 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.
