Chena

Chena is a toponym most commonly associated with Alaska, United States, where it designates several geographic features and related sites. The two best-known references are the Chena River and Chena Hot Springs.

Chena River: The Chena River is a northward-flowing river in central Alaska that rises in the White Mountains and passes through the Fairbanks area before joining the Tanana River, and it is part of the larger Yukon River watershed. The river has historical significance for the development of communities in the region and today serves as a site for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and riverside trails. Its watershed supports nearby towns and contributes to local drainage and ecosystem dynamics.

Chena Hot Springs: Located roughly 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is a geothermal resort known for its natural mineral pools and year-round recreation. The site includes hot spring pools, lodging, and geothermal facilities, as well as the Ice Museum, a seasonal display of ice sculptures and architectural ice work. Chena Hot Springs functions as a tourist destination and has been part of efforts related to geothermal energy use in Alaska.

Other uses: The name Chena also appears in various local place names and, less commonly, as a personal name in Alaska. The river and the hot springs are by far the most widely recognized references to the term.