Winstanley Lake Cabin
Winstanley Lake Cabin is located on the mainland on the shore of its namesake lake approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan. The cabin offers recreational
and wildlife viewing opportunities and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska.
The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane or boat, depending on conditions. Access by boat involves a 2.5 mile hike from saltwater plus a 2.25
mile row to the cabin. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
The 12x14-ft. ( pan-abode style ) log cabin accommodates 6 people with 2 single and 2 double bunks. Other amenities include a table and benches, a cooking counter, food storage, broom, and wood stove. An outhouse is located nearby. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed.
Drinking water and electricity are not available. Visitors must bring their own water supply, but water is also available from the lake and should be treated before drinking or cooking with it (water safety ).
Visitors should also bring sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking gear, lanterns or flashlights, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter.
Rain gear and boots are recommended. Visitors are expected to pack out their trash, gear and food and clean the cabin before leaving.
Click here for more cabin details and maps.
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
- Please pack out all trash and food and clean cabin before departure
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- This is the Winstanley Lake Cabin, not the cabin on Winstanley Island
- This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal
- Same day reservations allowed for this cabin
- 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 located within the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. It is backed by a forest of large old-growth spruce, hemlock and cedar and offers views of
the placid lake with its forested shoreline and surrounding mountains.
The Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness supports a diverse variety of wildlife. Mountain goats, bears, deer, moose and bald eagles make their home
here (bear safety). Many species of birds may be seen in or around the lake.
Recreation
A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. Visitors can row to the historic
Winstanley Lake Shelter at the end of the lake, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s.
Anglers can fish for cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon in the lake. Hunting is possible for Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goat, black bear and brown bear with the
proper permits.
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
The cabin is located on Winstanley Lake approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland, east of Winstanley Island. The cabin is accessible by float plane or by trail from saltwater (skiff provided at end of trail; please return it to the trail after use). Access by boat involves a 2.5 mile (4 km) hike from salt water plus a 2.25 mile (3.6 km) row to the cabin. Refer to USGS Ketchikan B-3. 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. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal.
