Checats Lake Cabin
Checats Lake Cabin is located on the mainland just south of Rudyerd Bay, within the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. The rustic and secluded retreat offers
year-round relaxation, sightseeing and recreation opportunities in Alaska's beautiful Inside Passage.
The site can be accessed by float plane, depending on conditions. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their
own amenities.
This 12-by-12 cabin ( pan-abode style ) has two single bunks and two double bunks, to accommodate up to six people. It is also equipped with a table and benches, wood stove, splitting maul, broom and an outhouse. The cabin features a skylight. NOTE: Firewood may be available, but visitors are encouraged to contact the Ketchikan Misty Fjords Ranger District to check the status of the woodshed. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from a nearby creek, but guests should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety tips ). It is recommended that guests bring their own water supply. Other items to pack include sleeping bags, sleeping pads, lanterns or flashlights, cookware, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and matches, among other necessities. Guests are expected to pack out trash 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; guests must bring their own water supply
- Please pack out all trash and food
- This cabin is in designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- High levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) have been reported in this area
- Click here for more information about 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 sits on a little knoll, at the outlet of Upper Checats Lake near Checats Creek. The area surrounding the lake is heavily forested. Guests can see the steep,
rocky cliff faces that surround the lake on three sides.
Black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goats are all common in the surrounding area (click here to learn about bear safety).
Recreation
Fishing is rated as very good for rainbow trout up to 24 inches (60 cm). Hunting for mountain goat, Sitka black-tailed deer, black bear and brown bear is possible with proper permits.
A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for exploring the lake, but guests must bring their own life jackets.
Contact Information
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KETCHICAN/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
The cabin is located approximately 45 miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland south of Rudyerd Bay. Accessible by float plane only. 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 office prior to making reservation during these periods. This cabin is in designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS topographic map for Ketchikan B-3.
