Barnes Lake Cabin

About

Barnes Lake Cabin sits on the western shore of Barnes Lake, a tidal saltwater lagoon surrounded by old-growth spruce and hemlock temperate rainforest on Prince of Wales Island. The 12x12 pre-cut cedar log cabin (pan-abode style) features wooden bunks sleeping 4-6, a table with benches, wood stove for heating, and a covered porch. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is available for exploring the lake and nearby waters. At low tide, a 50-100 foot tidal flat emerges in front of the cabin. The location is prime for fishing, with summer runs of coho (silver) and pink (humpy) salmon in the coastal waters. Crabbing is productive throughout warmer months, though visitors should be aware of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) advisories in the area. Hunters can pursue black bear during spring and fall seasons, and Sitka black-tailed deer from late summer through late fall. Scenic boating through Gold and Galligan Lagoon to Sweetwater Lake is possible at high slack tide. Visitors must bring their own drinking water, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking stove, lantern, cookware, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, and personal flotation devices. Wood is sometimes available but not guaranteed; axe, maul, and splitting wedges are provided. Float plane or boat access requires careful tide timing, as Indian Creek Rapids and Lake Bay Creek are dangerous except at high slack tide, approximately 1.5 hours after high tide.

Directions

Located on the west shore of Barnes Lake, 70 air miles from Ketchikan and 38 air miles from Craig on Prince of Wales Island. Access by float plane, motorboat, or kayak only. Float plane or boat access can only occur at certain tide stages. Use extreme caution navigating Indian Creek Rapids and Lake Bay Creek; these areas should only be attempted at high slack tide, about 1.5 hours after high tide. Refer to USGS topographic map Petersburg A-3.