Castle River Cabin

About

Castle River Cabin sits on the west side of Duncan Canal at the mouth of the Castle River on Kupreanof Island. The surrounding terrain is predominantly flat-to-rolling old-growth forest and muskeg, home to moose, deer, black bears, waterfowl, and grouse. The modified A-frame cabin features a wood stove for heating, two double bunks, a sleeping loft accommodating up to seven guests, a wooden table and benches, a counter, and a deck. Fishing is a major draw, with steelhead trout available April through May, trout from May to October, and coho salmon from mid-August through mid-September. A rowboat with oars is located half a mile upstream via the Castle River Trail. The trail also connects to nearby Castle Flats Cabin, half a mile downstream. Hunting for waterfowl, grouse, moose, deer, and bear is available in designated seasons. Visitors must be entirely self-sufficient. There is no potable water; all drinking water must be packed in or treated from streams. All trash and food must be packed out. Firewood may be available but is not guaranteed and is for heating the cabin only, not outdoor campfires. The pit toilet outhouse is the only restroom facility.

Directions

From Petersburg, 16 air miles by float plane or 30 water miles by boat. A 16-foot tide is required for direct boat or float plane access. At lower tides, up to a 2-mile hike across muddy tide flats is necessary. Alternatively, access Castle Flats Cabin (requires 15-foot tide for float plane or 13-foot tide for boat) and hike the easy 0.5-mile Castle River Trail to the cabin.