Salmon Lake Cabin Thorne Bay

About

Salmon Lake Cabin offers a unique wilderness lodging experience on Prince of Wales Island in the Tongass National Forest. This historic single-story cedar cabin sits on the northern shore of Salmon Lake within the Karta River Wilderness, known for its large salmon runs and pristine river drainage system. The cabin features hand-hewn beams, wooden door hinges, and a shake floor that create a distinctly rustic atmosphere. The 15x20-foot structure sleeps up to 4 on wooden bunkbeds (no mattresses provided) and includes a wood stove for heat, table, benches, axe, splitting maul, and fire extinguisher. An aluminum skiff with oars is available for exploring the lake, though guests must bring their own personal flotation devices. The large sandy beach extending from the cabin provides excellent access for swimming, beachcombing, and fishing. Anglers can target rainbow and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and pink, silver, and sockeye salmon. The 5-mile Karta River Trail connects Karta Bay to Salmon Lake, offering excellent river access for steelhead and salmon runs. Wildlife in the area includes black bears, wolves, Sitka black-tailed deer, beavers, otters, and trumpeter swans. Guests must bring all supplies including water, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and food, and should pack extra provisions for 2-5 days in case weather delays departure.

Directions

Access by float plane: 42 air miles from Ketchikan or 14 air miles from Thorne Bay. Land directly on Salmon Lake. Alternative access: Boat 10 miles from Hollis to Karta Bay, then hike 5 miles on the Karta River Trail (rated More Difficult) to the cabin. Helicopter access is prohibited in this designated Wilderness area. Check tide conditions before boating to Karta Bay.