Mitchell Bay Shelter Lookout/cabin

About

Mitchell Bay Shelter is a historic three-sided Adirondack-style log shelter constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936 as part of the Admiralty Island Canoe Route infrastructure. The 12' x 10' structure with shake walls, shake roof, and gravel floor overlooks the tidal flats at the head of Mitchell Bay on the western side of Admiralty Island. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. The shelter serves as a key waypoint on the Admiralty Island cross-island canoe route and provides access to the 1.13-mile Salt Lake to Mitchell Bay Trail, which meanders through spruce and hemlock forest. From here, hikers can continue on trails toward Freshwater Lake, Thayer Lake, or Davidson Lake. The surrounding Kootznoowoo Wilderness offers exceptional wildlife viewing, including brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles. Shoreline walking is possible during low tide. Access is exclusively by floatplane (approximately 45 minutes from Juneau), boat from Angoon or other coastal access points, or canoe portage across the island. This is a primitive wilderness facility with no potable water, restrooms, or other amenities. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for remote backcountry conditions.

Directions

Located on the northern side of the head of Mitchell Bay, northwest of South America Island on western Admiralty Island. Access by floatplane (approximately 45 minutes from Juneau), boat from Angoon or other coastal points, or canoe/portage across the island via the Admiralty Island Canoe Route. Suggested USGS topo map: Sitka C-2.