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BLM Camping

Summit Trail Shelter

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Summit Trail Shelter is located on the Summit Trail, which starts at the Wickersham Dome Trailhead. The Wickersham Dome area, which is north of Fairbanks, is known for its excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, and the area is popular throughout the year. Many visitors come to take in the gorgeous scenery or spot wildlife. The trail shelter was designed for emergency use, but it can be used by anyone at any time.

Bureau of Land Management sites follow the BLM's mission to offer and sustain the health, productivity, and diversity of public lands. These lands are set aside for both present and future generations to enjoy. BLM sites offer different amenities, including camping options that range from primitive to highly developed. To find BLM sites, search for "BLM camping near me."

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Summit Trail

This beautiful trail offers stunning views, but it can be a bit muddy, and snow tends to melt slowly in the area, so be prepared for rough spots.

Length: 7 miles

Intensity: Hard

Ester Dome Inner Loop

This trail offers beautiful views and is particularly spectacular during the autumn months.

Length: 2.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Wickersham Creek Trail

Excellent for hiking or snowshoeing, this trail is connected to several other trail systems in the area, making for many path options.

Length: 19.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Wander Lake Trail

For a gentle hike with plenty of lovely views and the opportunity to spot many bird species and other native wildlife, the Wander Lake Trail is a great option.

Length: 1.4 miles

Intensity: Easy

Birch Hill White Bear Loop

This trail offers amazing views of the scenery and is a good option for hikers who don't mind a bit of a challenge.

Length: 6.1 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

The Chena River is arguably the most popular and possibly the best spot for fishing in the Wickersham Dome or Fairbanks area. Anglers can often catch trout and grayling, and salmon are common during the right season. There are also many options for boating, paddling, or swimming along the Chena River.

Climbing

Grapefruit Rocks near Fairbanks offers the most climbing options in one setting, but the area between Fairbanks and Wickersham Dome has many rock climbing hotspots. Byers Lake, for example, has eight traditional and top-rope routes, and Rock Creek offers some of the best bouldering in the area.

Wildlife Viewing

Summit Trail is an excellent place to spot wildlife, as are many of the other trails in the area. Visitors can often see a range of mammals, including beavers, bats, squirrels, marmots, porcupines, moose, elk, caribou, and even foxes, lynx, coyotes, and bears. Many bird species also call the area home, and hikers can sometimes spot migratory birds during different seasons.

Picnicking

There are many locations along the Chena River that are ideal for picnicking. Graehl Park, for example, offers beautiful views of the river, and there are several picnic tables available.

Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Dog Sledding

As might be expected in Alaska, winter sports are some of the most popular, and people find ways to explore the beautiful countryside no matter the season. Many trails can be used for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing when enough snow has accumulated, and some trails are specifically designed for dog sledding or snowmobiling. Check for additional information about each trail to make sure it's the right choice for your activity.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is available at several locations around Fairbanks and the Wickersham Dome area. The Whitefish Campground and Boat Launch sets no limit on the size of RVs, and toilets, water, and picnic sites are available. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA has 154 sites with full hookups. Showers, restrooms, and a laundry area are available. The park is also pet-friendly.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at the Summit Trail Shelter, although it is better used for emergencies. Campers can also find several dispersed camping locations in the nearby Chena River State Recreation Area. There are few or no amenities when dispersed camping, so bring any supplies you might need with you.

RV Rentals Near Summit Trail Shelter Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Summit Trail Shelter BLM trip

The Wickersham Dome area is a beautiful, untouched location that is home to many large wild animals. Predatory wild animals can be dangerous, but even large herbivores, such as moose, can be threatening if spooked. It is always a good idea to observe animals only from a distance and to take precautions when in bear country. For example, you should secure any food out of reach so as not to draw bears or other predators to your campsite.

The Summit Trail is beautiful at any time of year, but the area is remote, and the weather can turn quickly, particularly during the winter months. Always plan ahead and take precautions. Bring a map, compass, or GPS with you. Ensure that someone knows where you've gone and when you'll return. Dress warmly or in layers, and pack plenty of water, snacks, and first aid supplies. The trail shelter is perfect for riding out inclement weather but be aware that, unlike many other trail shelters in the area, there is no wood stove.

Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds must always be cared for by following Leave No Trace policies, and it's important to familiarize yourself with these policies before heading out. For example, fires must be made only in designated areas where they can be easily controlled. If you see any trash along the trail, pick it up and throw it away, and always take your own trash with you and throw it away properly. Be courteous to other hikers and campers, and give wild animals plenty of space and respect.