Crow Pass Cabin
4.156 reviews145 Forest Station Rd. P.O. Box 129
Crow Pass Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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
The fee for reserving the cabin is $75. Additional fees for reservations include $8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in-person. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee, while cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled within 14 days of check-in.
About this campground
Perched high in the Chugach Mountains, Crow Pass Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. This rustic mountain refuge sits just 500 yards off the legendary Crow Pass Trail—part of the historic Iditarod Trail that gold miners and mushers once traversed. Today's visitors use the cabin as their basecamp for exhilarating alpine adventures, from challenging mountain ascents to pristine backcountry skiing runs. While the cabin provides basic shelter from the elements, true to its backcountry nature, you'll need to pack in everything from sleeping gear to cooking supplies, embracing the self-sufficient spirit of Alaska's early pioneers.
Crow Pass Cabin is a rustic rental cabin suitable for hikers and climbers visiting the Chugach Mountains. It is accessible via a strenuous hike, making it ideal for primitive-style camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceYour journey follows in the footsteps of countless adventurers who've traversed the Crow Pass Trail, a storied segment of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. This ancient pathway has witnessed the dreams of gold rush prospectors, the determination of early mail carriers, and the endurance of legendary dog mushers. Along the trail, the haunting remnants of the Monarch Mine stand as silent testimony to Alaska's golden era, when fortune seekers braved these rugged mountains in search of precious metals and new beginnings.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature guards this alpine sanctuary well, opening her doors only from June through October when avalanche danger subsides and snow releases its grip on the high country. Even in summer's embrace, the mountain weather plays by its own rules—cool temperatures and sudden precipitation remind visitors they're in big mountain territory. As autumn approaches or spring lingers, winter conditions can surprise the unprepared, making warm layers and weatherproof gear essential companions for your journey to this elevated outpost.
ElevationAt 3,500 feet above sea level, the cabin claims its place in the alpine realm where trees dare not grow. Here in the open tundra, you'll find yourself literally above the clouds on many days, breathing the thin, pure air of the high country while the world stretches endlessly below.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your doorstep at 3,500 feet, a natural amphitheater of wonder unfolds before you. The ancient ice of Raven Glacier gleams in the distance, while summer wildflowers paint the tundra in brilliant splashes of color against the austere beauty of the Chugach peaks. This pristine wilderness serves as home to Alaska's most iconic residents—grizzly and black bears roam the valleys below, while sure-footed Dall sheep and mountain goats navigate impossible cliff faces. Lucky visitors might glimpse wolves threading through the landscape or spot a massive bull moose browsing in the willow thickets. The alpine environment creates an ever-changing canvas where dramatic weather, dynamic wildlife, and raw mountain beauty converge.
Geological RegionThe mighty Chugach Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for your alpine adventure, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of soaring peaks and deep valleys. Above the tree line, the cabin sits amid classic alpine tundra—a resilient ecosystem of low-growing shrubs, hardy grasses, and specialized wildflowers that burst into bloom during the brief mountain summer. This fragile yet enduring landscape represents one of Alaska's most pristine wilderness environments, where every plant and animal has adapted to thrive in the challenging conditions of the high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess requires a strenuous 3-mile hike along the Crow Pass Trail with an elevation gain of 2,080 feet. The trail features steep switchbacks, stream crossings, and may have snow from October to mid-June, making it less accessible during these periods.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 16x16 feet, suitable for accommodating up to six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers moderate privacy but is located along a popular hiking trail, meaning visitors may peek inside during your stay. "Other people coming up to the cabin and looking inside while we were there" was mentioned in a review.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring 1 gallon of kerosene per day for heating, water purification supplies, and adequate gear for cold conditions. Consider staying multiple nights to fully enjoy the area.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin (Crow Pass Cabin) is available; reviews highly rate its location and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 3 nights per stay, and a total of 3 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 6 guests per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin located 500 yards off the Crow Pass Trail.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 1 to October 31. Closed outside these months due to hazardous avalanche conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov via website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is available by reservation only; no walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled within 14 days of check-in. Late cancellations are not supported on the day of check-in.
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
Crow Pass Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, climbing, and historical site exploration along the Crow Pass Trail. "The section to the cabin is a popular trail for families, but does have steep switchbacks in places," noted the official description.
Hiking
The Crow Pass Trail is a 24-mile picturesque section of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. Highlights include alpine hiking, waterfalls, the Monarch Mine ruins, and views of Raven Glacier. The trail requires experienced navigation and includes steep switchbacks and stream crossings. "Steep climb for the kids (ages 6, 9, 11) was WELL WORTH the effort," said one user review.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
The area surrounding the cabin is home to black and brown bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, marmots, arctic ground squirrels, and white-tailed ptarmigan. "Mountain goats traveled through the camp, passing right outside the cabin," recalled one reviewer.Winter Activities
Backcountry skiing is available during late fall and early summer, though avalanche hazards are a concern in these seasons.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No information on firewood policies; visitors are advised to burn local firewood to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are No information provided.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal avalanche risk, potential encounters with bears, and cold temperatures even in summer.
Active alertsSeasonal avalanche warnings apply from October through mid-June. Snow-free conditions are expected by mid-June.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Girdwood, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 - October 31
Trash and recyclingThe cabin requires campers to pack out all trash and food. No recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Crystal Lake and a small creek, visitors can access water sources but must treat the water before consumption.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with lack of toilet paper in the outhouse, missing signage indicating cabin occupancy, and insufficient pre-trip instructions for lighting the heater.
HostUnstaffed facility; guests can contact main office at (907) 783-3242 for general information.
Campground Map
145 Forest Station Rd. P.O. Box 129
Driving directionsAt mile 90, AK-1 S/Seward Highway (35 miles south of Anchorage). Turn left onto paved road leading to Mt. Alyeska Resort (Alyeska Highway). After 2 miles, turn left onto Crow Creek Road. Trailhead is at end of road (7 miles) and parking is available. Refer to USGS Map, Anchorage A6.
Access is via paved roads leading to the trailhead, followed by a 3-mile hike with an elevation gain of 2,080 feet. Seasonal snow conditions may exist from October through mid-June, and the trail includes small stream crossings.Nearby places
Girdwood (3 miles to the trailhead)
Nearby supplies
Fuel, groceries, and supplies are likely available in Girdwood, approximately 10 miles from the trailhead.
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Crow Pass Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews indicate the cabin is a rustic yet rewarding experience for those prepared to hike in and bring necessary supplies. The trail and surrounding scenery receive high praise, though there are concerns about the lack of insulation, needed preparations for the stove, and lack of privacy due to hikers peeking into the cabin.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include stunning alpine scenery, wildlife encounters such as mountain goats, and the rustic charm of the cabin. "Cabin exceeded expectations all around," said one user. "Steep climb for...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints center around the lack of privacy due to the cabin's location on a popular trail, inadequate pre-trip instructions for using the kerosene stove, and missing essentials in the outhouse such...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra kerosene for the stove (recommendation: 3 gallons for 2 nights), toilet paper, and paper for lighting the heater. Expect cold conditions even in summer and pack accordingly. Plan for...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter and shoulder seasons pose challenges such as unstable snowpack and hazardous avalanche conditions. Late spring through early fall is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing as the trail is...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Don't be discouraged, do this and fulfill that missing part in your life. Absolutely mind-blowing," said Anthony Thompson. "Wished we had brought 3 gallons of kerosene for our 2-night stay," said...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mostly praise the cabin's location near wildlife and scenic overlooks. Complaints include lack of privacy and missing essentials such as toilet paper. "The cabin isn't well...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility challenges include a strenuous 3-mile hike with steep switchbacks and stream crossings, which can be challenging for families with young children or those with mobility limitations.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025