The 8 Native Villages of Ahtna Nene
Traditional village communities across 28,000 square miles of the Copper River Basin in East-Central Alaska.
Cantwell
Ahtna Name: Yidateni Na’
Located at the junction of the Parks and Denali Highways, Cantwell was historically an important winter settlement and trade hub along the Nenana River.
Cheesh’na / Chistochina
Ahtna Name: Cheesh’na
Cheesh’na means "Red Fish River" in Ahtna. One of the most traditional villages in the region, situated along the Tok Cut-Off with deep roots in customary salmon harvesting.
Chitina
Ahtna Name: Tsedi Na’
Meaning "Copper River," Chitina is located near the confluence of the Copper and Chitina Rivers and serves as a major salmon fishery destination and gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Kluti-Kaah / Copper Center
Ahtna Name: Tl’aticae’e
One of the oldest continuously inhabited Ahtna settlements, located where the Klutina River meets the Copper River. Kluti-Kaah translates to "Headquarters of the Klutina River."
Gakona
Ahtna Name: Gaxona
Gakona is situated at the junction of the Gakona and Copper Rivers. Famous for its historic lodge, fertile river confluence, and traditional winter trapping lines.
Gulkana
Ahtna Name: C’ulc’ana
Located on the Gulkana River near the Richardson Highway. Gulkana is known for its active village council, community salmon enhancement projects, and youth leadership programs.
Mentasta
Ahtna Name: Mendaesde
Situated at Mentasta Lake in the pass between the Alaska Range and Wrangell Mountains. Renowned for its rich oral history, Elders council leadership, and traditional birch basketry.
Tazlina
Ahtna Name: Tezdlen Na’
Located at the mouth of the Tazlina River along the Richardson Highway, Tazlina hosts the Ahtna Corporation Administrative Complex and serves as a regional governance center.
Interactive Copper River GIS Map
Explore Leaflet interactive maps and traditional boundaries for all 8 villages.