Give to the future of recreation access in Juneau
For over 90 years, the U.S. Forest Service has maintained a public-use cabin system on the sprawling Chugach and Tongass National Forests, offering shelter and access for Alaskans to enjoy their stunning surroundings. In recent years, demand for cabin rentals in Southeast, and Juneau especially, has exceeded availability.
Enter the Alaska Cabins Project, a partnership between the National Forest Foundation and the Forest Service that undertakes the largest public cabin expansion in 50 years with an eye toward improved accessibility for all.
In Juneau, up to five new cabins are proposed. This cabin was completed in June of 2026, supported by $100,000 in funds from the Foundation, thanks to a generous gift in memory of Lynn Wegener. With your help, the Community Foundation can help support the next two Juneau-area cabin projects: one on the popular Treadwell Ditch Trail, and a second cabin in the Mendenhall Campground.
Each donation toward our fundraising goals for these upcoming cabin projects will unlock federal funds from the Forest Service, quadrupling your impact. More than just a gift for today, your donation is a legacy that ensures access to Juneau’s wondrous outdoors for generations to come.
Sítʼ Yá Hítʼ is located inside Mendenhall Campground, cabin features include:
- Lofted design that sleeps up to 8 people
- Drive-in access during summer, ski in/out in winter
- View of the lake and glacier
Generations of Alaskans and visitors have made treasured memories with family and friends, connected with nature, and experienced Juneau in an unparalleled manner from the shelter of public-use cabins. It’s a legacy of outdoor access that promotes sustainable recreation.
Sítʼ Yá Hítʼ opened in summer of 2026 and is already booked through the winter.
For questions about the cabin at Sítʼ Yá Hítʼ/Mendenhall Lake or the Alaska Cabins Project, please contact:
Carolyn Auwaerter (they/them)
Tongass Stewardship Coordinator
cauwaerter@nationalforests.org
The mission of the National Forest Foundation is to engage Americans in the restoration and enjoyment of National Forests and Grasslands.
