Sarkar Lake Cabin

About

Sarkar Lake Cabin offers a true backcountry Alaska experience on Prince of Wales Island in the Tongass National Forest. This 12x12 foot pre-cut cedar log cabin sits hidden in old-growth temperate rainforest on the shore of Sarkar Lake, serving as the gateway to the 16-mile Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route. The route winds through seven pristine lakes with 3 miles of portage, passing through habitat rich with Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans. The cabin is furnished with wooden bunkbeds sleeping up to 6, a wood stove for heat, table, benches, and basic tools including an axe and fire extinguisher. An outhouse is located outside. A Forest Service-provided aluminum skiff with oars is available at both the trailhead and cabin for the 2-mile crossing from the boat launch. Guests must bring all supplies including sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and drinking water, as only untreated lake water is available. Access is via Forest Road 20 from Craig (about 40 miles) to the Sarkar boat launch, then a 2-mile paddle through a maze of islands. A good map is essential. Float plane access from Ketchikan (76 air miles) or Thorne Bay (53 miles) is possible but not available when the lake is frozen in late fall through early spring. Weather conditions may extend stays by 2-5 days; pack extra supplies.

Directions

From Craig, head north on State Highway 929 to Control Lake Junction. Turn onto Forest Road 20 and drive approximately 40 miles (road turns to gravel after 14 miles) to the Sarkar Lake trailhead and boat launch. From the launch, paddle or motor approximately 2 miles through the lake's island maze to reach the cabin. A Forest Service skiff is provided. Alternatively, access by float plane: 76 air miles from Ketchikan or 53 miles from Thorne Bay.