About MANZANITA LAKE CABIN
Overview Manzanita Lake Cabin is located in Alaska's Tongass National Forest. Manzanita Lake Cabin is located on the scenic northwest arm of Manzanita Lake approximately 28 miles northeast of Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island. 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 canoe, depending on conditions. This primitive cabin has no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors 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 provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. Visitors can row over and explore the nearby stream inlet delta. The lake offers excellent fishing for cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden and kokanee salmon. Sitka black-tailed deer and black bear hunting is possible with a permit.Facilities The 12x14-ft. (pan-abode style) cabin can accommodate 6 people with 2 single bunks and 2 double bunks. Other amenities include a table with benches, a cooking counter, food storage, broom and an wood stove for heat. An outhouse is located nearby.Drinking water and firewood are not provided. Visitors must bring their own supply of drinking water and biobricks for tiny wood stove. Water is also available from a nearby stream or the lake (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 (more cabin details). Natural Features The cabin is located about 100 yards from the lake shore beside a spectacular series of cascading waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy views of steep granite walls and snow-capped peaks.
How to Get There
The cabin is located approximately 28 miles northeast of Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island on the northwest arm of Manzanita Lake and is accessible by float plane or canoe. 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. Refer to USGS Ketchikan C-4. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal.
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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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 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 MANZANITA LAKE CABIN
Heading to MANZANITA 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 MANZANITA LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for MANZANITA LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232979) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MANZANITA LAKE CABIN?
The cabin is located approximately 28 miles northeast of Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island on the northwest arm of Manzanita Lake and is accessible by float plane or canoe. 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 duri…
How do I contact MANZANITA LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources
