Starrigavan Creek Cabin

About

Starrigavan Creek Cabin is a drive-up, seasonally accessible log cabin within Starrigavan Recreation Area on Baranof Island. Built in 2008 from young Sitka spruce trees harvested around Starrigavan Creek to improve wildlife and fish habitat, it was the first young-growth cabin and first cabin within a recreation area in Tongass National Forest. The cabin sits next to Starrigavan Creek surrounded by temperate rainforest of hemlock and spruce. The 16x20-foot cabin accommodates up to 8 people with one single bunk over an accessible bunk on the main level and two double-size bunks in the upstairs loft. Furnishings include a table with benches, two chairs, and a bench overlooking the creek. Heat comes from a wood stove (bring firewood in 15-inch lengths). An artesian well is located 300 feet away and a vault toilet 200 feet from the cabin. Outside, there is a picnic table and combination campfire ring/grill with log benches. Parking accommodates up to four standard vehicles. The surrounding Starrigavan Recreation Area offers saltwater and freshwater fishing, kayaking, photography, hiking, and birding. Trails include Estuary Life Trail, Forest and Muskeg Trail, and Mosquito Cove Trail. Wildlife includes brown bear, spawning coho and pink salmon, bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters, and Sitka black-tailed deer. Food must be stored in the cabin or vehicle due to active brown bear presence.

Directions

Located 7 miles northeast of Sitka at the end of Halibut Point Road, about 3/4 mile from the Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal. From the ferry terminal, turn left and drive 3/4 mile on Halibut Point Road. From the airport, cross O'Connell Bridge through downtown Sitka to the roundabout at Sawmill Creek Road and Halibut Point Road, then travel 7 miles north. The cabin is in the Estuary Loop at Campsite 6. Access to Sitka is only by ferry or airplane.