From the Copper River Delta to Prince William Sound and the Kenai Peninsula, the Chugach National Forest embraces a wide and diverse swath of the great Alaska panorama. Within its boundaries lies the northernmost extension of a coastal temperate rainforest stretching from California. Here, dynamic landscapes are recurrently shaped by geologic forces.

North America's largest contiguous wetland on the Pacific coast provides an annual feast for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl. Rivers of ice spill from rugged mountains into deep fjords of marine blue. Pristine streams and lakes spawn literally millions of fish in world-class salmon runs. All of this is underscored by the long-held traditions of stewardship over these lands and waters by First Nation peoples including the Chugach, Eyak, Ahtna, and Dena'ina.

In the backyard of Alaska's largest city, the Chugach National Forest is a treasure for all to enjoy. Let author Andromeda Romano-Lax lead you through its riches to discover the cultural traditions, abundant wildlife, recreational opportunities, and the Forest Service's one hundred-year legacy of celebrating these cherished treasures.