Distin Lake Cabin

Closed — The cabin is currently in disrepair and not available for rent.

About

Distin Lake Cabin is a historic enclosed Adirondack shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936. Located in the Kootznoowoo Wilderness on Admiralty Island, the cabin features a layout similar to a Pan Abode cabin with original notching visible on much of the structure. It sits 30 feet back from Distin Lake with minimal beach area and has sleeping space for 2 adults and 2 children, though there is not enough room for 4 adults. The cabin is one of two on Distin Lake, the other being Sportsmen Cabin. It's part of the Cross Admiralty Canoe route with two short portage trails on the lake. A 3-mile trail to Thayer Lake begins at the cabin, where observant hikers can find remnants of original CCC trail construction. Access is by floatplane (approximately 45 minutes from Juneau) or by canoe and portage (8 miles from Mitchell Bay). Helicopter access is illegal as the cabin is within a designated Wilderness area. The structure is currently in disrepair and not available for rent. When operational, it typically includes 4 single wooden bunks, wood stove, table and benches, cooking counter, and basic tools. An outhouse is provided. Water must be obtained from the lake and treated before use. Visitors are in brown bear country and should take appropriate precautions.

Directions

Distin Lake is in the central portion of Admiralty Island. Access by floatplane (approximately 45 minutes from Juneau) or canoe and portage (8 miles from Mitchell Bay). Helicopter access is illegal as this cabin is within a designated Wilderness area. Suggested USGS topo maps: Sitka C-1, C-2.

Nearby Campgrounds