Hugh Smith Lake Cabin

$45.00/night

Overview

Hugh Smith Lake Cabin is located on the mainland within the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. This rustic, secluded retreat is open year-round for relaxation and recreation 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.

Recreation

There is a working fish weir near the outlet of the lake. Anglers can fish for cutthroat, Dolly Varden and sockeye salmon. Guests can use the cabin's 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars, but they must provide their own life jackets.

An abandoned cannery site sits at the east end of the lake, inviting exploration. Hikers will find a trail leading to saltwater.

Facilities

This 12x14-ft. pan-abode style cabin sleeps six and comes equipped with two single bunks, two double bunks, a table and benches, wood stove, splitting maul, broom and an outhouse. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed.

Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from the lake, but guests should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it. 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 fire starter. Guests are expected to pack out trash and clean the cabin before leaving. Click here for more cabin details.

Natural Features

The cabin sits on a peninsula that extends into Hugh Smith Lake. It is surrounded by an old-growth forest of Sitka spruce, western hemlock and cedar. Guests have views of the lake and the gentle, forested slopes on the opposite shore.

This area is home to a large population of brown bears. Other species that make their home in the wilderness include Sitka black-tailed deer, wolves, martens and moose. A variety of waterfowl may be seen around the lake.

Camp site features

Across 1 camp site:

Largest party: 6 people

Fees

Only one change per reservation for all Alaska cabins is allowed. Change is defined as a modification to the start or end date of the reservation; after one change has been made, if additional changes are desired, the customer must cancel the current reservation and re-book the new dates.

Directions

The cabin is located approximately 55 air miles southeast of Ketchikan on the mainland south of Marten Arm. Accessible by floatplane. No moorage available. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS Ketchikan A-3. In fall, winter and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (floatplanes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for information prior to making reservations during these periods.

Stay Limit

Check in from 12 PM, check out by 12 PM.

Reviews

1 review

5 stars

Ryan H

Loop:Area Hugh Smith Lake Cabin

Site:

Reviewed 4 months ago

Hugh Smith Cabin was one of the best wilderness experiences we’ve had. It was the perfect escape from the noise and stress of city life. We caught plenty of rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, hiked both outlet streams, and the stream closest to the cabin led to a beautiful waterfall that was well worth the hike. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game had a weir in place during our visit, so the salmon couldn’t pass upstream, but it was still fascinating to walk down and watch them gather below it. The staff we met were friendly and happy to answer questions. We saw ducks, loons, bald eagles, and other wildlife every day. The rowboat was sturdy, dependable, and became part of our daily routine as we explored the lake and fished. I know this cabin may not see as many visitors as some others, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Places like Hugh Smith provide a rare opportunity to experience the Tongass in peace and solitude. I sincerely hope the Forest Service continues to maintain this incredible cabin so others can enjoy it for generations to come.

Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

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