Aspen Flats Cabin (Chugach National Forest, Ak)
4.756 reviewsSeward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, SEWARD, AK 99664, USA
Aspen Flats Cabin (Chugach National Forest, Ak)
$50.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates for the cabin vary by season: $60 per night during peak season (May 1 to Sep. 30) and $50 per night during non-peak season (Oct. 1 to Dec. 31). Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine Upper Russian River in south-central Alaska, Aspen Flats Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This rustic retreat serves as your gateway to some of Alaska's finest fishing waters, where salmon leap through crystal-clear currents and untamed trails wind through ancient forests. While the cabin offers solitude and spectacular natural beauty, visitors should come prepared for true wilderness encounters—from curious bears to nature-reclaimed pathways. Here, modern amenities take a backseat to raw, unfiltered Alaskan adventure.
Aspen Flats Cabin offers a rustic and remote camping experience with accommodations limited to a single cabin, suitable for small groups. Primitive camping is not explicitly stated as an option.
Weather and SeasonsThe Upper Russian River maintains its icy embrace throughout the year, creating perfect conditions for the legendary salmon runs that draw anglers from around the world. From June through September, the river comes alive as sockeye and coho salmon surge upstream in their ancient ritual. Summer brings mild temperatures ideal for exploration, while winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland—though seasoned travelers should note the significant avalanche risks during the snowy months. Each season paints the wilderness in dramatically different hues, offering unique adventures for those willing to embrace Alaska's ever-changing moods.
ElevationPerched in the gentle embrace of south-central Alaska's rolling landscape, the cabin enjoys a perfect balance between accessibility and wilderness immersion. The terrain transitions from riverside flats to gentle hills, creating an ideal playground for hikers and mountain bikers alike. This stable, varied topography offers something for every skill level, from leisurely riverside strolls to more challenging hill climbs that reward explorers with sweeping vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape unfolds like a living tapestry, where ancient spruce and cottonwood groves frame breathtaking mountain vistas. As summer deepens into autumn, the forest floor erupts in a bounty of wild berries—nature's reward for those who venture off the beaten path from late July through September. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters: majestic moose browse the riverbanks, while both black and brown bears feast on seasonal salmon. Wolves ghost through the shadows, and the sky serves as a highway for countless bird species. Every glance offers a potential wildlife encounter, making each moment at Aspen Flats an opportunity for natural discovery.
Geological RegionThe cabin sits within south-central Alaska's remarkable Russian River corridor, where gentle hills rise from riverside meadows to meet the distant peaks. This unique geological setting combines the accessibility of rolling terrain with the dramatic beauty of Alaska's mountain country. Ancient forests of spruce and cottonwood have claimed the hillsides, their roots anchored in soil shaped by millennia of glacial activity. The result is a landscape that feels both intimate and infinite—a perfect microcosm of Alaska's vast wilderness compressed into one spectacular valley.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for disabled individuals are not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to eight guests with bunk space for six people.
Sites PrivacyAspen Flats Cabin is secluded, offering a high level of privacy according to user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAspen Flats Cabin is well-maintained and provides bunk space for six. Visitors should bring their own chairs for comfort as the deck has limited seating.
Best CampsitesAspen Flats Cabin is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 3 consecutive nights during peak season (May 15 to Aug. 31).
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people, with bunk space for 6.
Groups
Not applicable as there is only one cabin on-site.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to Dec. 31, with peak season from May 1 to Sep. 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations must be made in advance; no walk-up availability reported.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 service fee. Late cancellations, no-shows, and early departures do not receive refunds. One modification allowed per reservation; further changes require cancellation and rebooking.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aspen Flats Cabin in Chugach National Forest offers diverse outdoor activities ranging from fishing, hiking, and biking to wildlife viewing. The Russian River adjacent to the cabin is noted for excellent fishing opportunities, particularly Dolly Varden and rainbow trout. Seasonal salmon runs occur from June to September. Hiking and biking trails, including the 21-mile Russian Lakes Trail, traverse varied terrains such as muskeg, meadows, and high-canopied forests. "Hikers and bikers can explore unique terrains, but the trail is closed to motorized vehicles year-round," states an official source.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails include the 21-mile Russian Lakes Trail, which features diverse terrain such as meadows, muskeg, and forest canopy. Some parts of the trail are closed to motorized vehicles seasonally.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching Dolly Varden and rainbow trout in the Russian River. Seasonal salmon runs occur from June through September, but fishing for salmon upstream of Russian River Falls is prohibited.Biking
The 21-mile Russian Lakes Trail provides opportunities for biking across varied terrain. Motorized vehicles are prohibited year-round on certain sections.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include seeing moose, black and brown bears, wolves, and various bird species. "Visitors should remain on high alert for bears," according to multiple user reviews.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes skiing and snowshoeing. High avalanche hazards exist on the Russian Lakes Trail during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests may use the wood stove provided in the cabin for heating. Firewood is not supplied but splitting maul and hand saw are available.
Hazards
General hazardsBear encounters are frequent, requiring visitors to remain on high alert and practice bear safety. The trail is overgrown and signage can be hard to read, increasing navigation difficulty.
Active alertsHigh avalanche hazards exist on Russian Lakes Trail in winter.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Seward Ranger District, Seward, AK, reachable at 907-288-3178. Additional emergency services likely available in Seward.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to Sep. 30
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Visitors must pack out all garbage and food waste.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Russian River, with fishing opportunities for Dolly Varden, rainbow trout, and salmon.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight challenges such as overgrown trails, hard-to-read signage, and frequent bear activity.
Campground Map
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, SEWARD, AK 99664, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is via the Russian Lakes Trail, 12 miles from the Russian Lakes Trailhead on Snug Harbor Rd. or 9 miles from the trailhead located in Russian River Campground. Follow the short cabin access trail off the main trail. Refer to USGS topographic maps Seward B8 and Kenai B1 for detailed navigation.
Access requires hiking, biking, skiing, or horseback travel. Motorized access is prohibited year-round. The trail to the cabin can be overgrown, and signage is reportedly run down and hard to read. Winter travel may involve over-ice conditions.Nearby places
Seward (approximately 20 miles from trailhead, travel time varies depending on transport method).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel likely available in Seward, approximately 20 miles from the trailhead. Visitors should pack all necessary supplies before heading to the cabin.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews
Aspen Flats Cabin (Chugach National Forest, Ak) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's excellent location along the Upper Russian River and its peaceful, secluded nature. Positive sentiments revolve around the cabin’s cleanliness, scenic surroundings, and comfortable interior despite its rustic amenities. However, signage and trail maintenance were noted as areas for improvement.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the cabin's excellent refurbishment, scenic surroundings, and wildlife opportunities. "Absolutely loved this cabin," and "Great location, newer cabin," were common sentiments. Visitors...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include poorly marked trails leading to the cabin and overgrown paths. "The signage along the trail was pretty beaten up and hard to read," one user wrote. Others noted the lack of deck...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring chairs for more comfortable seating and additional tools for firewood preparation, as the saw may be missing, according to user feedback.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are particularly favorable due to the salmon runs and berry abundance. Winter reviews highlight the challenge of navigating snowy and icy trails, compounded by avalanche risks.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Fantastic secluded cabin next to the river! Even butterflies!" - Sarah R. "Excellent cabin, great location, and this time, perfect weather. I love this cabin so much." - Adrienne D. "Absolutely...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The cabin is referred to as S05 in user reviews, consistently receiving high ratings for its location and amenities despite trail access issues.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025