About DEVILS ELBOW CABIN
Overview Devil's Elbow Cabin is set back from the coastal water in a scenic area of southeastern Alaska. It provides access to a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting and viewing wildlife. The location is also popular among rockhounds and geology enthusiasts. The cabin is accessible by boat or float plane only, and tides impact access. Those arriving by boat should be prepared to hike a half-mile to reach the cabin if they arrive at low tide. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation The cabin's location makes it a favorite among kayakers and canoers, as it provides some protection from inclement weather. Rocky Pass is known for its interesting geology, inviting boaters from all over. Low tides affect boat navigation over the tide flats around the cabin, so boaters should consult tide charts in advance (local tide tables). Hunting is possible for waterfowl, grouse and bear in designated seasons as per state or federal hunting regulations; click here for more information from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Anglers may find steelhead during April and May and coho salmon in August and September. The tide flats are a rockhound's paradise.Facilities The A-frame cabin has bunks and a sleeping loft to accommodate up to seven people. It is equipped with a table, benches and an oil stove for heat. An outhouse with a pit toilet is provided. Water for drinking, cooking and cleaning is not provided at the cabin. Water taken from the creek, which is a quarter-mile south of the cabin, should be treated or boiled before consumption. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own drinking water if possible. Heating oil is not supplied at the cabin. Visitors must bring enough kerosene or No. 1 heating oil for the oil heater, approximately one gallon per day. Visitors need to bring their own sleeping bags and pads, cook stove and cooking gear, towels, food, clothing, fi
How to Get There
Access is by boat (66 miles from Petersburg or 26 miles from Kake) or float plane (44 miles from Petersburg). A 16-foot tide is required for direct float plane access to the cabin. Arrival at lower tides will require a half-mile walk on the tide flat. Refer to USGS topographic map Petersburg C6. Petersburg D6 may also be helpful. Maps are available online or by calling the Petersburg Ranger District at (907) 772-3871.
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).
- 👖
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 DEVILS ELBOW CABIN
Heading to DEVILS ELBOW 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 DEVILS ELBOW CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for DEVILS ELBOW CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232999) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DEVILS ELBOW CABIN?
Access is by boat (66 miles from Petersburg or 26 miles from Kake) or float plane (44 miles from Petersburg). A 16-foot tide is required for direct float plane access to the cabin. Arrival at lower tides will require a half-mile walk on the tide flat. Refer to USGS topographic map Petersburg C6. Petersburg D6 may also be helpful. Maps are available online or by calling the Petersburg Ranger Distri…
How do I contact DEVILS ELBOW CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-772-3871.
References & Official Resources
