Bay Of Pillars Shelter

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations or fees required. Accessible by boat only.

About

Bay of Pillars Shelter is a remote three-sided Adirondack-style shelter nestled in a grove of old-growth temperate rainforest on the south shore of Bay of Pillars on Kuiu Island. This 14x14 ft rustic shelter, built in 1997, sits within the pristine Kuiu Wilderness of the Tongass National Forest and overlooks the broad, U-shaped bay with views of the surrounding forested peaks. The shelter accommodates up to 6 people and is located approximately three miles northeast of Point Ellis. The site features a gently sloping gravel beach ideal for launching kayaks and provides excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the surrounding wilderness. Water is available from a small creek located about 30 feet from the shelter, though it must be treated before drinking. The location serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby Tebenkof Bay and experiencing the dramatic landscapes of the Kuiu Wilderness, which protects coastal estuaries, old-growth forests, and subalpine meadows. Access is by boat only, typically via kayak, skiff, or floatplane from Petersburg or other nearby communities. The shelter is available year-round with no advance reservations required and no rental fee, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors should be prepared for remote wilderness conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles in this pristine bear country environment.

Directions

Accessible by boat only. Shelter is located approximately three miles northeast of Point Ellis on the south side of Bay of Pillars on Kuiu Island. Most common access is by kayak or small boat from Petersburg.

Nearby Campgrounds