Patching Lake Cabin

About

Patching Lake Cabin sits at the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River, surrounded by old-growth cedar, Sitka spruce, and western hemlock rainforest. The 12x14-foot Pan-Abode log cabin was constructed in 1975 and accommodates up to six people with two single and two double bunks. A wood stove provides heat, and the cabin includes a cooking counter, table, benches, food storage, and basic tools including an ax, maul, and splitting wedges. Access is by float plane only from Ketchikan, approximately 20 miles to the south. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for exploring the lake, though visitors must bring their own life jackets and any outboard motor. Resident cutthroat trout inhabit both Patching and Chamberlain Lakes, though there is no trail connecting them. Wildlife in the area includes Sitka black-tail deer, black bear, beaver, wolf, and waterfowl including geese and trumpeter swans. This is a primitive cabin with no electricity, indoor plumbing, potable water, or cell phone coverage. Visitors must bring sleeping bags, cooking gear, food, water or treatment capability, toilet paper, garbage bags, fire extinguisher, and rain gear. Firewood availability cannot be guaranteed. All trash must be packed out.

Directions

Located approximately 20 miles north of Ketchikan, Alaska, on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River. Access is by float plane only. Refer to USGS Ketchikan C-5.