Overview
Windfall Lake Cabin, built in 1998, is one of the most popular cabins on the Tongass National Forest. This rustic retreat is open year-round and is open as an overnight accommodation and a warming hut for winter recreationists. The cabin is an ideal base for enjoying the serenity and beauty of Windfall Lake or participating in various recreational activities. The site can be accessed by the Windfall Lake Trail, Montana Creek Trail or floatplane, depending on conditions. Winter weather may require a 3-mile trek on snowshoes or skis. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Recreation
The partially planked trail leading to the cabin has an elevation gain of 100 feet, appealing to hikers, snowshoers and skiers of all levels. Cross-country skiing is good in winter on an undeveloped trail route to Spaulding Meadows (map and compass are recommended). Visitors can use canoes to explore Windfall Lake, and must bring their own flotation devices. Salmon and trout fishing in Windfall Creek and Windfall Lake is possible with a state fishing license.
Facilities
This 14 ft. by 16 ft. pan-abode style cabin sleeps six people with two single and two double bunks. The cabin also has a table and benches, broom, propane furnace, wood stove, axe and splitting maul. Propane is provided for the furnace. The cabin is accessible, with an elevated boardwalk connecting the dock, cabin and outhouse. A picnic table sits on the front deck and a campfire ring is outside as well. Water, firewood and electricity are not provided. Water is available from Windfall Lake, but visitors must treat water before drinking or cooking with it. It is recommended that visitors bring their own water supply. Visitors must provide their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, food, a cooking stove, cookware, plates, utensils, lanterns or flashlights, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter. They are expected to pack out trash, empty the cabinets and clean the cabin before leaving. Click here for more cabin details.
Natural Features
The cabin sits on the eastern end of Windfall Lake, just off the shore. The front deck overlooks the crystal-clear water and offers views of the surrounding mountains and dense evergreen forest. Bears are frequent visitors to the area, and visitors may see beavers and a variety of waterfowl on the lake. Berries grow in the area, and are available for picking in the summer.
The description, directions and fees are the Forest Service’s own words, from its record on Recreation.gov.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
US Forest Service (USFS)
National Park Service (NPS)
US Fish and Wildlife (USFW)
Bureau of Reclamation (USBR)
Department Of Defense (DOD)
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
Other Federal
State
Local
Alaska Native Lands (Patented or Interim Conveyed)
Alaska Native Allotment
Road
Primitive Road
Road
Primitive Road
Trail
Roads open to all Vehicles, Yearlong
Roads open to all Vehicles, Seasonal
Roads open to highway legal vehicles only, Yearlong
Roads open to highway legal vehicles only, Seasonal
Special Designation, Yearlong
Special Designation, Seasonal
Trails open to all vehicles, Yearlong
Trails open to all vehicles, Seasonal
Trails open to vehicles 50" or less in width, Yearlong
Trails open to vehicles 50" or less in width, Seasonal
Trails open to motorcycles, Yearlong
Trails open to motorcycles, Seasonal
Special Designation, Seasonal
Trails Open to Wheeled Vehicles Only < 50" in Width, Yearlong
Trails Open to Wheeled Vehicles Only < 50" or Less in Width, Seasonal
Wilderness Area
Wilderness Study Area