Windfall Lake Cabin
Windfall Lake Cabin, built in 1998, is one of the most popular cabins on the Tongass National Forest. This rustic retreat is open year-round and is open as an overnight accommodation and a warming hut for winter recreationists. The cabin is an ideal base for enjoying the serenity and beauty of Windfall Lake or participating in various recreational activities. The site can be accessed by the Windfall Lake Trail, Montana Creek Trail or floatplane, depending on conditions. Winter weather may require a 3-mile trek on snowshoes or skis. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
This 14 ft. by 16 ft. pan-abode style cabin sleeps six people with two single and two double bunks. The cabin also has a table and benches, broom, propane furnace, wood stove, axe and splitting maul. Propane is provided for the furnace. The cabin is accessible, with an elevated boardwalk connecting the dock, cabin and outhouse. A picnic table sits on the front deck and a campfire ring is outside as well. Water, firewood and electricity are not provided. Water is available from Windfall Lake, but visitors must treat water before drinking or cooking with it. It is recommended that visitors bring their own water supply. Visitors must provide their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, food, a cooking stove, cookware, plates, utensils, lanterns or flashlights, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter. They are expected to pack out trash, empty the cabinets and clean the cabin before leaving. Click here for more cabin details.
Need to Know
- This facility is located in an extremely remote and wild area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water, and weather safety (including cold)
- Recreating in Alaska can present both obvious and hidden dangers; please be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to occasionally poor weather
- Water is not available at the cabin; visitors must bring their own water supply or treat water from natural sources
- Please pack out all trash and food
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- Cabin is open to the public as a warming shelter from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Click here for more information about Tongass National Forest
- Check out the forest's campground description for specific information to Fish Your National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The cabin sits on the eastern end of Windfall Lake, just off the shore. The front deck overlooks the crystal-clear water and offers views of the surrounding mountains and dense evergreen forest. Bears are frequent visitors to the area, and visitors may see beavers and a variety of waterfowl on the lake. Berries grow in the area, and are available for picking in the summer.
Recreation
The partially planked trail leading to the cabin has an elevation gain of 100 feet, appealing to hikers, snowshoers and skiers of all levels. Cross-country skiing is good in winter on an undeveloped trail route to Spaulding Meadows (map and compass are recommended). Visitors can use canoes to explore Windfall Lake, and must bring their own flotation devices. Salmon and trout fishing in Windfall Creek and Windfall Lake is possible with a state fishing license.
Contact Information
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Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road JUNEAU AK 99801
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Access is by hiking trail or floatplane. Take Glacier Highway north of Juneau to 26.6 miles, the parking area is on the right just past Herbert River Road before the Herbert River Bridge. A 1 mile hike on Herbert River Road leads you to the trailhead on the bank of Herbert River. The road is closed to vehicle traffic.
The trail is 3 miles and can be used by hikers, snowshoers and skiers. Alternate trail to cabin is 7 miles and starts at the end of Montana Creek Road.
The cabin is also accessible by jet boat. Access the Herbert River by Eagle Beach and continue up the Herbert River into the Windfall River. Sometimes river obstructions will occur.
