Overview

Newly constructed in 2024, El Cap Cabin offers a truly unique experience to visitors and locals alike. This waterfront, ABA compliant cabin, brags a scenic view of beautiful El Capitan Passage. El Cap Cabin is accessible by road and is located northwest of the small town of Whale Pass. It provides a remote, scenic setting for recreation and relaxation in the Tongass National Forest.

Facilities

El Cap Cabin is a 16x20 pan-abode style log cabin with a covered porch. It sleeps up to six people, however there is only one bunk bed. There are no mattresses. The cabin is equipped with a table, benches, a wood stove for heat and an outside toilet. Other amenities include a cooking counter, shelves, cupboard space, broom, a large woodshed and maul.

The cabin does not have running water or electricity. Visitors must bring their own food, water, Bio brick compressed logs for the woodstove, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cook stove and fuel, fire starter, cooking gear/utensils, lantern or flashlights, toilet paper, first aid kit and garbage bags. 

Natural Features

The El Cap Campground is in an area of high geologic interest including the El Cap Cave. The surrounding forest boasts old growth species such as yellow cedar, red cedar, hemlock, and Sitka spruce. There is abundant wildlife viewing for both aquatic and terrestrial species including Sitka black tail deer, black bear, harbor seals, otters and many fish species. Prince of Wales Island has runs of every salmon species except chinook as well as populations of cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden. 

Recreation

The El Cap Campground is nearby many opportunities Prince of Wales island has to offer. Salmon fishing is popular during the summer months as well as fall deer hunting, beach combing and other marine sports including paddle craft and sea kayaking. The nearby El Cap cave system offers guided tours during the summer season and is the longest mapped cave in Alaska at over two miles.

Nearby Attractions

The main nearby attraction is El Capitan Cave. El Capitan Cave is the longest mapped cave in Alaska. Cavers mapped over two miles of passage from the main entrance. The only way to see this magnificent cave is during the summer months, when visitors can take advantage of a no cost guided tour given by Forest Service employees. A locked gate guards the cave's entrance to protect against vandalism and possible damage from otherwise well-meaning individuals, as well as to keep inexperienced cavers safe from its hazards. The tour meets near the parking lot and outhouses and leads visitors on a somewhat strenuous hike up a long, steep trail to an elevation of 250 feet and a platform at the mouth of the cave. The tour then proceeds inside the cave for approximately 500 feet and includes information about cave (karst) geology and archeological discoveries. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours. To reserve a cave tour call the Thorne Bay Ranger District at (907) 828-3304 Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at least 2 days in advance. Tour groups are limited in size to six people. Babies in packs or carriers are not allowed, nor are children under seven years of age. Precautions: The trail to the cave is strenuous and steep. There are no trails or lighting in the cave. Hazards include low ceilings, pits, and slippery, uneven ground. Footing is very uneven and only those with very sure footing and good agility should attempt the tour. What to bring: At least one flashlight per person, extra batteries, and sturdy footwear. Hard hats are required and are provided by the Forest Service at the site. Wear warm clothing as the cave temperature is a constant 40 degrees. Wet and muddy conditions are the norm.

Other attractions include the El Cap Campsite and El Cap boat launch. Both are walking distance away from the El Cap Cabin.

Important Notices

• Need to Know

  This facility is located in an extremely remote and wild area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water, and weather safety (including cold)

  Recreating in Alaska can present both obvious and hidden dangers; please be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to occasionally poor weather

  Water is not available at this facility; visitors must bring their own for drinking, cooking, and cleaning; water from natural sources must be filtered, boiled or chemically treated before drinking

  Guests must bring their own cooking stove and fuel

  All garbage and food must be packed out

  Click here for a map of cabins on Prince of Wales Island

  The person holding the reservation must be 18, and must be a member of party using the cabin

  Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is allowed through arrangements with the Permit Administrator on a limited basis. Call (907) 826-3271 to arrange.

  Same day reservation are available for this cabin

  No discounts for Golden Age and Golden Passports for Alaska cabin rentals

  Learn more about Tongass National Forest

  Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

Available Activities

• Beachcombing - Beachcombing
• Boating - Boating
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Clam Digging - Clam Digging
• Crabbing - Crabbing
• Diving - Diving
• Fishing - Fishing
• Guided Interpretive Walks - Guided Interpretive Walks
• Kayaking - Kayaking
• Mushroom Picking - Mushroom Picking
• Scuba Diving - Scuba Diving
• Water Access - Water Access
• Whale Watching - Whale Watching
• Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
• Wood Cutting - Wood Cutting
• Sea Kayaking - Sea Kayaking
• Hunting - Hunting
• Birding - Birding
• Berry Picking - Berry Picking
• Hiking - Hiking
• Photography - Photography

Directions

<p>El Capitan Cave can be reached by vehicle, boat, or plane. By road, follow Forest Service Road 20 to Forest Service Road 15 and take a left for about a mile (1.6 km) to the cave. Watch for signs. From both Thorne Bay and Craig is an estimated 3-hour drive. There is a Forest Service dock for use by boats and planes, but they should not be left unattended. No boats over 24' are allowed. Boats over 24' will need to anchor out and skiff in.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 907-828-3304

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip