About HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN
Overview Humpback Lake Cabin is located on the mainland within the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. It has the feel of a secluded getaway, even though a commercial lodge is nearby. The cabin is open year-round, offering relaxation, sightseeing and recreation in Alaska's beautiful Inside Passage. The site can be accessed by floatplane, depending on conditions. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is available at the cabin, but guests must provide their own life jackets. Guests can row to the Humpback Creek Trailhead and enjoy a scenic 3-mile hike to Mink Bay. The trailhead is located at the north edge of a large log jam near the west end of the lake. The lake offers excellent fishing for Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout.Facilities This 12x14-ft. pan-abode style cabin sleeps six and comes equipped with two single bunks, two double bunks, a table and benches, tiny woodstove, broom and an outhouse.Firewood cannot be guaranteed, bring your own firewood or biobricks. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from the lake, but guests must 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 offers spectacular views of the glacier-carved lake and the surrounding high alpine peaks with sheer granite walls. The landscape is covered in lush old-growth forest of Sitka spruce, cedar and western hemlock. 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 m
How to Get There
The cabin is approximately 48 air miles southeast of Ketchikan, east of Mink Bay on the mainland and is accessible by floatplane. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS Ketchikan A-2. 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
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 HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN
Heading to HUMPBACK 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 HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232977) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN?
The cabin is approximately 48 air miles southeast of Ketchikan, east of Mink Bay on the mainland and is accessible by floatplane. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS Ketchikan A-2. In fall, winter and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (floatplanes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjor…
How do I contact HUMPBACK LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources
