About CHECATS LAKE CABIN
Overview 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.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.Facilities 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).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 bl
How to Get There
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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to CHECATS LAKE CABIN
Heading to CHECATS LAKE CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for CHECATS LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for CHECATS LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232967) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CHECATS LAKE CABIN?
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…
How do I contact CHECATS LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources
