Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter
01 reviewShoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
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About this campground
Perched above the pristine waters of Zimovia Strait, this scenic overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across Shoemaker Bay. From this vantage point, visitors can watch the ever-changing tapestry of Southeast Alaska's coastal wilderness unfold before them, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife traversing the strait's protected waters below.
The Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter caters to dispersed camping with a minimalistic approach. It primarily serves hikers, given its location at the end of a trail.
Historical SignificanceThis overlook stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between people and the sea in Southeast Alaska. The shelter serves as a modern waypoint along ancient routes once traveled by Tlingit peoples, offering contemporary visitors a chance to connect with the timeless rhythms of this coastal landscape.
Weather and SeasonsThe maritime climate brings dramatic weather patterns year-round, from misty mornings that cloak the strait in ethereal fog to crystal-clear days when distant islands emerge like jewels on the horizon. Summer months offer the most reliable conditions for viewing, while shoulder seasons provide a more intimate experience with nature's raw beauty.
ElevationRising above sea level, the overlook provides a commanding perspective that transforms the surrounding seascape into a living map. The elevation gain rewards hikers with cooler temperatures and unobstructed sightlines that reveal the true scale and majesty of Alaska's Inside Passage.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter on Wrangell Island serves as your window to one of Southeast Alaska's most captivating marine corridors. Dense temperate rainforest frames the viewing area, while below, the deep waters of Zimovia Strait create a natural highway for migrating whales, sea lions, and countless seabirds. Eagles often soar at eye level, riding the thermal currents that rise from the water's surface.
Geological RegionSituated within the Alexander Archipelago's complex island system, this location showcases the dramatic results of glacial carving and tectonic forces. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient bedrock meets the relentless Pacific, creating the fjords, straits, and protected bays that define Southeast Alaska's extraordinary coastline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information provided about accessibility options.
Sites SizeThe campground only includes a shelter at the end of the Institute Creek Trail. No details about campsite sizes were mentioned.
Sites PrivacyNo information provided about the level of privacy for campers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Groups
No information provided about group site accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Activities you can enjoy
The Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter offers opportunities for winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The stunning views of Zimovia Strait and Shoemaker Bay are a highlight for visitors.
Hiking
The shelter is accessible via two hiking routes: a 3.5-mile trail from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead and a 5.2-mile trail from the North Wrangell Trailhead. According to a user review, the boardwalk trail is 'very well maintained with nature conservation in mind.'Winter Activities
Winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are explicitly mentioned as recreational opportunities.Water Sports
No information available about water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information available about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsOption 1 - 3.5 miles from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead via Rainbow Falls Trail to Institute Creek Trail. Option 2 - 5.2 miles from the North Wrangell Trailhead on the Spur Road Extension via the North Wrangell Trail to Institute Creek Trail. Shelter site is at the end of the Institute Creek Trail.
nullCamper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
A small selection of user feedback highlights the scenic beauty and well-maintained trails. One user notes: 'A great hike to a gorgeous place. Very well maintained boardwalk trail with nature conservation in mind.'
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the stunning views of Zimovia Strait, Shoemaker Bay, and the surrounding islands, as well as the well-maintained trails.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints were mentioned in the provided reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
No specific tips or recommendations were noted.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No detailed seasonal variations in user experiences were mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
'A great hike to a gorgeous place. Very well maintained boardwalk trail with nature conservation in mind.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews were provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No information about accessibility reviews or user experiences related to accessibility.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information provided about pet policies or experiences from pet owners.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025