Mcdonald Lake Cabin
Tongass National Forest
McDonald Lake Cabin sits on Wolverine Island near the outlet of McDonald Lake 50 miles from Ketchikan, Alaska. The cabin is available year-round and makes an excellent
base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its many recreational options and abundant wildlife.
The cabin is remote and accessible only by boat or float plane, depending on conditions. Visitors arriving by boat must anchor at Yes Bay and walk the 1.5-mile McDonald Lake Trail to get to the cabin.
This primitive cabin has no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage.
Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
The 12x14-ft. (pan-abode style) cabin accommodates 6 people with 2 double bunks and 2 single bunks. Other amenities include a table and benches, a cooking counter, a broom with dust pan, outhouse, splitting maul, and woodstove. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed.
Drinking water is not available at the cabin. It is recommended that visitors bring their own water supply, but water is available from a small stream near the cabin and should be treated before drinking or cooking with it (water safety tips).
Visitors should bring sleeping bags, sleeping pads, a cooking stove and cooking gear, lanterns or flashlights, toilet paper, garbage bags, fire extinguisher and a fire
starter. Rain gear and boots are recommended. Visitors are expected to pack out all their trash, gear and food and clean the cabin before leaving (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
- Drinking water is not available at this cabin
- Pack out all trash, gear and food
- Same day reservations allowed for this cabin
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- The person holding the reservation for this cabin must be at least 18 years of age and must be a member of the party using the cabin
- There are no discounts for Golden Age/Access Passports for Alaska cabin rentals
- Learn more about the Tongass 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 is backed by old-growth cedar, Sitka spruce and Western hemlock rainforest. From the front deck, visitors can gaze out over the lake and its forested
shoreline, as well as admire the surrounding mountain peaks.
Wildlife in the area includes Sitka black-tailed deer, black and brown bear, wolf, beaver, marten, mink and otter (bear safety and precautions). A variety of birds may be spotted in and around the lake.
Recreation
Boating, hiking, fishing and hunting are popular activities at this cabin. The McDonald Lake Trail features a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) 3-sided shelter.
A skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. The skiff can use a
short-shaft motor, which is not provided.
Steelhead and salmon runs occur up to Wolverine Creek. The lake offers resident trout and Dolly Varden. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons,
visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
Contact Information
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KETCHIKAN/MISTY AK
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 907-225-2148
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Approximately 50 miles from Ketchikan. Located on Cleveland Peninsula,
north of Yes Bay. Cabin site is on Wolverine Island near outlet of lake.
Access is by float plane or boat. There is a 1.5-mile hike by trail from Yes
Bay Lodge at saltwater.
Refer to USGS Ketchikan D-6.
In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for information prior to making reservations during these periods.
Available Campsites
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