In a far western corner of Alaska, snuggled up against the Canadian border, you’ll find this wacky small town chock full of rural Alaskan charm. It’s a long drive from almost everywhere, and that’s the way they like it. If you want to take a vacation to a remote part of Alaska, head to Chicken and spend some time away from the rest of the world. There are just a few places to visit, but sitting on the porch and soaking in the sun seems to be the perfect thing to do. Visit the wacky small town of Chicken for a taste of classic Alaskan charm.
Chicken, Alaska – Mile 66.5 of Taylor Highway
Coordinates: 64°4′15″N 141°52′30″W
In the late 1800's, gold miners set up camp at the South Fork of the 40-Mile River for the abundance of ptarmigan in the area. They used the plump birds as a food source and survived the long winters.
In 1902, Chicken became the second Alaskan town to be incorporated. Chicken was famously named when the local residents couldn't agree on the spelling of ptarmigan, the Alaska state bird.
The town is decorated with chickens and you'll find chicken jokes from one end to the other.
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The winter population is around 20 people, and in the summer the addition of gold miners expands that to over 100. Chicken residents carve out a life together in the wilderness.
The town has existed simply for all this time, welcoming those who cruise the highway in the summer and nestling down into the hills for the long, cold winters. The main street seems largely unchanged from 100 years ago.
The Pedro Dredge is a central feature of the town. This dilapidated gold dredge lays at rest on a small mound. Free camping is open to visitors for a two-night maximum. Head to the main drag for more information.
The Chicken Creek Cafe serves up delicious diner cuisine any time of day. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and homemade pies keep the community fed and happy. You'll definitely want to tank up for your adventures at this homey cafe.
The saloon is the spot for night life, and day time relaxing, in beautiful downtown Chicken. This local watering hole is always hopping with both locals and visitors.
The walls of this insane saloon, are covered in hats, bras and the remains of underwear that were blasted out of the canon in the parking lot, used exclusively for blasting panties into the air. Just another thing that makes Chicken unique.
Head up the Top of the World Highway to this secluded spot in the middle of the wilderness in Alaska. Set out for adventure this summer to reach this wacky small town, a slice of pioneer Alaska still thriving in the woods.
