Windfall Lake Cabin

About

Windfall Lake Cabin sits on the eastern shore of crystal-clear Windfall Lake, surrounded by dense evergreen forest and mountain views. This 14x16-ft pan-abode style cabin is one of the most popular rentals in Tongass National Forest, offering a rustic wilderness retreat accessible only by trail or floatplane. The cabin sleeps six on two single and two double bunks and includes a propane furnace with fuel provided, wood stove, axe, splitting maul, table, and benches. An elevated boardwalk connects the dock, cabin, and vault toilet outhouse. The front deck features a picnic table overlooking the lake, and a campfire ring sits outside for evening fires. Visitors must bring all food, cooking gear, sleeping bags, lanterns, toilet paper, and garbage bags, as there is no electricity, firewood, or potable water. Lake water can be treated for drinking. Bears frequent the area, and visitors should be prepared for wildlife encounters. Recreation opportunities include canoeing on Windfall Lake (bring your own flotation devices), salmon and trout fishing with a state license, and hiking or skiing the surrounding trails. In winter, the cabin doubles as a warming hut for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The Windfall Lake Trail gains only 100 feet over 3.3 miles, making it accessible to most fitness levels, though winter access may require snowshoes or skis.

Directions

Take Glacier Highway north of Juneau to mile 26.6. The parking area is on the right just past Herbert River Road before the Herbert River Bridge. Hike 1 mile on Herbert River Road (closed to vehicles) to reach the Windfall Lake Trailhead on the bank of Herbert River. From there, the cabin is 3.3 miles on the Windfall Lake Trail. An alternate 7-mile route starts at the end of Montana Creek Road. The cabin is also accessible by floatplane or jet boat via Herbert River from Eagle Beach.