Chitina, Alaska: Connecting to the Copper River Valley

Nestled along the banks of the Copper River in Alaska's Copper River Census Area, the small community of Chitina offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern connectivity. As a census-designated place, Chitina may be small in population, but it punches above its weight when it comes to providing its residents with reliable internet access.

Chitina's remote location, just outside the western boundary of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, means that residents have had to be resourceful in obtaining high-quality internet services. Fortunately, the area is served by two primary internet providers: Copper Valley Telecom and HughesNet.

Copper Valley Telecom, a local telecommunications cooperative, offers a range of internet options to Chitina residents, including DSL and fiber-optic connections. With download speeds up to 1,000 Mbps and upload speeds to match, Copper Valley Telecom provides the kind of blazing-fast internet that allows Chitina's residents to stay connected, whether they're working remotely, streaming entertainment, or video-chatting with loved ones.

For those in more remote areas of Chitina, HughesNet satellite internet is a viable alternative. While the maximum download speeds of 25 Mbps may not match the fiber-optic offerings, HughesNet's reliable service ensures that even the most isolated residents can access the internet and stay connected to the outside world.

The availability of high-quality internet in Chitina is particularly important given the community's rich history and cultural significance. As an Athabascan settlement that has existed for centuries, Chitina has long been a hub for fishing, mining, and transportation. Today, the town remains a popular destination for visitors drawn to the annual dipnet fishing season, where locals and tourists alike can harvest the abundant salmon runs of the Copper River.

Whether you're a remote worker seeking a peaceful retreat, a history buff exploring Alaska's past, or an outdoor enthusiast eager to experience the region's natural wonders, Chitina offers the perfect blend of connectivity and community. With reliable internet access and a wealth of local attractions, this small Alaskan town is poised to continue thriving well into the future.