Hugh Smith Lake Cabin
00 reviewHugh Smith Lake Cabin
$45.00 - $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
Facility rates vary by season: Peak Season (May 01 - Sep 30) is $60 per night, Non-Peak Season (Oct 01 - Dec 31) is $45 per night. Rates do not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Deep within Alaska's legendary Inside Passage, Hugh Smith Lake Cabin awaits those seeking true wilderness solitude. This remote sanctuary, accessible only by floatplane, sits nestled among towering old-growth forests at the edge of pristine Hugh Smith Lake in the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. While the cabin provides essential shelter with its rustic amenities, adventurers must arrive fully prepared with all necessary supplies for their backcountry escape. Here, far from civilization's reach, you'll discover the raw beauty of untouched Alaska.
The campground exclusively offers cabin lodging in a remote wilderness setting.
Historical SignificanceAt the eastern shores of Hugh Smith Lake lies a fascinating remnant of Alaska's industrial past—an abandoned cannery that once buzzed with activity during the territory's fishing boom. Today, these weathered structures stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, inviting curious visitors to explore and imagine the lives of those who once worked these remote waters. The site offers a compelling glimpse into the region's maritime heritage and the enduring relationship between Alaskans and the sea.
Weather and SeasonsWinter brings dramatic weather to Hugh Smith Lake, with temperatures hovering between 31°F and 37°F while heavy rains and occasional snow transform the landscape. The cabin truly shines during late spring and early summer, when clear skies and gentle breezes create perfect conditions for exploration. As seasons change, so does the lake itself—winter's icy grip eventually yields to summer's open waters, affecting floatplane access and shaping each visitor's unique experience in this remote corner of Alaska.
ElevationPositioned at the serene waters of Hugh Smith Lake, the cabin sits at lake level, offering intimate connections with both the aquatic environment and the surrounding temperate rainforest ecosystem.
Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin commands a spectacular position on a forested peninsula that juts into Hugh Smith Lake, surrounded by a cathedral of ancient Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and aromatic cedar trees. This pristine wilderness serves as home to Alaska's most iconic wildlife—mighty brown bears fish along the shoreline, black-tailed deer browse in forest clearings, wolves move like shadows through the underbrush, and majestic moose wade through shallow coves. The lake itself becomes a stage for nature's aerial ballet, with diverse waterfowl species gracing its surface throughout the seasons.
Geological RegionThe cabin sits within the breathtaking Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity in Alaska's famed Inside Passage. This geological wonderland showcases dramatic fjords carved deep into the coastal mountains, while pristine old-growth forests of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and cedar blanket the slopes that rise from Hugh Smith Lake. The surrounding terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces and ice ages have created one of North America's most spectacular wilderness areas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information is provided regarding accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x14 feet and is designed to accommodate six people. It is equipped with two single bunks and two double bunks.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated on a peninsula within an old-growth forest, offering a high level of privacy and natural seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve during late spring or early summer for better weather conditions and easier accessibility.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite (cabin available).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin sleeps six.
Groups
No group camping details are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin, pan-abode style, located on a peninsula.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; Peak Season runs May 01 - Sep 30. Non-Peak Season runs Oct 01 - Dec 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to remote nature of the cabin; advanced reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations 14 days or fewer before check-in incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Late cancellations for one-night stays forfeit the entire amount paid.
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
The Hugh Smith Lake Cabin offers a variety of wilderness recreation opportunities including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. An abandoned cannery site and trails leading to saltwater add options for exploration.
Hiking
Hikers at this campground can explore a trail leading to saltwater. The trail offers views of the old-growth forest and opportunities for solitude.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Hugh Smith Lake, where anglers can catch cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and sockeye salmon. A working fish weir near the outlet of the lake is an added feature for visitors.Boating
Guests can use the cabin's 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars for boating activities. Life jackets must be brought by visitors.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a large population of brown bears as well as species like Sitka black-tailed deer, wolves, martens, and moose. Waterfowl are also commonly seen around the lake.Winter Activities
During fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surfaces, limiting recreational activities.Water Sports
The aluminum skiff provided allows for basic boating activities such as rowing, but guests must bring life jackets themselves.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests must bring their own firewood; on-site firewood is not guaranteed. Use is limited to the wood stove.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh population of brown bears; guests should practice bear safety. Water can be unsafe and needs treatment. Weather conditions may include freezing and heavy precipitation. Guests should be prepared for extended stays due to poor weather.
Active alertsNone
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for emergency information. Closest major city for services is Ketchikan.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - Sep 30
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food, and clean the cabin before departure. No trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresCabin is situated on a peninsula surrounded by Hugh Smith Lake; guests can use a 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars.
Common complaintsSeasonal access issues due to lake freezing. Requires guests to bring all amenities.
HostNo on-site hosts; managed by Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe cabin is located approximately 55 air miles southeast of Ketchikan on the mainland south of Marten Arm. Accessible by floatplane. No moorage available. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS Ketchikan A-3. 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.
Access to Hugh Smith Lake Cabin is only possible via floatplane due to its remote location in a designated Wilderness area. Helicopter access is prohibited. Seasonal restrictions apply, as the lake surface may be frozen in fall, winter, and early spring.Nearby places
Ketchikan - 55 air miles southeast
Nearby supplies
Guests must bring all supplies, including water, food, firewood, life jackets, and other amenities due to the cabin's remote location.
Camper Reviews
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Review Summaries
What Campers Love
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Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025