Koknuk Cabin

KOKNUK CABIN

Part of Tongass National Forest

Overview

Koknuk Cabin is located on the west side of Sergief Island, on the Stikine River Delta, and makes an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding Stikine-LeConte Wilderness. The delta tideflats provide for a different experience from the usual rainforest setting of Southeast Alaska and offer opportunities for paddling, wildlife watching and hunting. The site can only be accessed by a shallow draft boat, depending on conditions. The tide must be a minimum of 16 feet in order to access the cabin. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

Facilities

This 12-by-14 cabin (pan-abode style) was built in 1963 and has two single and two double bunks to sleep up to four people. The cabin also has a table and benches, broom, an oil stove for heat and an outhouse toilet. A wooden cooler box is attached to the cabin for food storage. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is sometimes available from rainwater catchment, but guests should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety tips ). It is recommended that guests bring their own water supply. Heating oil is not supplied by the Forest Service. In addition to bringing a supply of No.1 stove oil, guests should pack sleeping bags, sleeping pads, a cooking stove, lanterns or flashlights, cookware, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and matches, among other necessities. Guests are expected to packout trash and clean the cabin before leaving ( click here for more cabin details).

Natural Features

The cabin is situated in the fringe between tide flats and the alder and willow trees. The surrounding area is relatively flat with grass, shrubs, willow and alder growing on the tide flats. Wildflowers are prominent in May and June. This area is home to brown and black bears, bald eagles, hawks and moose ( bear safety information ). The Stikine River tidal flats are a major stopover spot for waterfowl and shorebirds during the spring and fall migrations.

Recreation

The waters around the cabin are ideal for exploring by kayak or canoe during high tide. The Forest Service does not provide boats, and guests must also bring their own flotation devices. Tide tables should be consulted before any boating excursion. This cabin is also in a prime location for waterfowl hunting in the fall.

Important Notices

  • 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 the cabin; guests must bring their own water supply or be prepared to treat water from natural sources
  • Please pack out all trash and food
  • This cabin is in a designated wilderness area; access by helicopter is illegal
  • Click here for more information 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.
  • The invasive European Green Crab (EGC) has been found in southern Southeast Alaska and is suspected to be in more locations on the Tongass National Forest. Please actively look for and report EGC to help map the distribution and contribute to management.

Available Activities

  • Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
  • Hunting - Hunting
  • Camping - Camping
  • Boating - Boating
  • Paddling - Paddling

Directions

Koknuk Cabin is located on the west side of Sergief Island, on the Stikine River delta.<br /><br /> The cabin is accessible by shallow draft boat only, 10 miles from Wrangell or 8 miles from the boat ramp on the south end of Mitkof Island. Tides affect access. Boat access requires a tide of 16 feet or higher, plus a short walk to the cabin. Please consult local <a href="http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions/NOAATidesFacade.jsp?Stationid=9451204">tide tables</a>.

Contact Information

Phone: 907-874-2323

WRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT
PO BOX 51
WRANGELL, AK 99929

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