Don K
VerifiedDecember 4, 2025 Stayed at: S08, Loop: AREA SHELIKOF CABIN
Make sure the previous group closed the upstairs window otherwise the cabin won't heat appropriately in cold weather.
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About Shelikof Cabin
Shelikof Cabin overlooks a sandy beach of Shelikof Bay on the west coast of Kruzof Island, 20 mi from Sitka, Alaska. The cabin is generally available year-round, weather permitting, and was built in 1991 by volunteers from the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station in Sitka.
This is a remote site. The cabin can be accessed by helicopter or wheeled plane on the beach during low tide. Alternatively the cabin can be reached by boat, a 45-minute ride from Sitka to Mud Bay, followed by a 7-mile hike, across the Kruzof Island Trail to Iris Meadows and access to Shelikof Trail, subject to tide conditions. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities.
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
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Currently open - Oct 1 to Dec 31
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Waterfront
Water Access
- Beach Access
Cabin Interior
- Heating
Views and Setting
- Waterfront
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S08, Loop: AREA SHELIKOF CABIN
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Site Details
Up to 8 guests
Reviews
14 reviews
Summary
Shelikof Cabin offers a remote hiking experience, distinct from the more accessible North Beach cabin, and is well-maintained by its visitors. The cabin is cozy, with a wood stove providing warmth even in winter months. However, accessing the cabin by water can be challenging due to dangerous boat landings, and snowshoeing is necessary during snowy conditions.
Based on guest feedback
4.9
Overall rating
Based on 14 reviews
5 stars
85.7% (12)
4 stars
14.3% (2)
3 stars
0.0% (0)
2 stars
0.0% (0)
1 star
0.0% (0)
Showing 14 reviews
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Don K
VerifiedApril 9, 2026 Stayed at: S08, Loop: AREA SHELIKOF CABIN
Had to snowshoe the entire way, still lots of snow.
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Don K
VerifiedApril 9, 2026 Stayed at: S08, Loop: AREA SHELIKOF CABIN
Had to snowshoe the entire way, still lots of snow.
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Katy P
VerifiedJune 25, 2026 Stayed at: S08, Loop: AREA SHELIKOF CABIN
Shelikof is the best beach in southeast Alaska. The cabin is quiet and pristine, the beach feels like Southern California without all the people, and the tide pools are incredible for all ages.
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Location & Directions for Shelikof Cabin
Sitka Ranger District, Sitka, AK 99835 United States
Elevation: 7 ft
Getting There
Open year round, weather permitting. Located 20 mi northwest of Sitka on the western shore of Kruzof Island in the Gulf of Alaska. First-time users of this cabin should contact the Sitka Ranger District office at 907-747-6671 for specific directio...
Open year round, weather permitting. Located 20 mi northwest of Sitka on the western shore of Kruzof Island in the Gulf of Alaska. First-time users of this cabin should contact the Sitka Ranger District office at 907-747-6671 for specific directions to the cabin.
Helicopter or wheel plane can land on the beach at low tide. Access by boat is 45 minutes from Sitka to Mud Bay, then hike 7 mi on the Kruzof Island Road (old logging road) and Shelikof Trail. ATV access is allowed as far as Iris Meadows, approximately 1.4 mi from the cabin.
From Mud Bay, take Kruzof Island Trail about 6 mi to T in road at Iris Meadows. Turn left toward Shelikof Trail, cross footbridge and parallel Shelikof River to right through meadows on south side to large diamond trail marker at the meadow/forest edge. Do not turn left once you cross footbridge. Easier to cross meadows during lower tides of 6 ft or less. Shelikof Trail continues at diamond marker just inside the timber and parallels the forest edge, crossing occasional sloughs before reaching cabin. Be alert, as you can easily lose sight of trail markers at slough crossings.
For geographic features around the cabin, refer to USGS topographic maps Sitka A-5, A-6.
Policies & Rules
Arrival & departure
- Access to the cabin is better when tides are lower than 6 feet; check local tide tables for details.
- Contact the Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau for boat or air charter information.
Cancellation policy
- Reservation fees are non-refundable. For campsites, cabins, lookouts, yurts, group sites, and similar stays, we charge a reservation service fee of $8.
- Standard cancellations usually have a $10 cancellation fee. Customers can generally cancel before the check-in date online.
- Late cancellation rules differ by stay type.
- Individual campsites: cancelling after 12:00am local time the day before arrival usually means a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night's fee.
- Cabins, lookouts, and yurts: cancelling less than 14 days before arrival usually means a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night's fee.
- One-night reservations: a late cancellation usually forfeits the full amount paid, up to the total original reservation cost.
- Modifications are allowed before the cut-off window, but fees depend on the change. Changing to dates completely outside the original reservation dates may trigger a $10 change fee. Extending or shortening a stay that still includes original dates usually has no change fee, though refunds may depend on timing and facility rules. Switching to the same type of campsite for the same dates usually has no change fee, but price differences are charged or refunded.
- Early departures may or may not be refunded. At certain facilities, partial refunds may be possible if staff can mark the site available for other visitors. No refund is given for a night if the early departure is requested after that day's check-out time.
- Security deposits are separate. Security deposits may be refunded to the original payment method if the facility is left in acceptable condition, as determined by the property.
Safety & rules
- Be aware of safety regarding bears, water, and cold weather before visiting.
- Stay vigilant of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to poor weather conditions.
- All food and trash must be packed out after your stay.
Amenities
- The cabin is not maintained during winter months.
Fires & fuel
- Firewood availability may be limited.
- To prevent pests, do not move firewood; buy it near your destination.
Utilities
- All water must be treated before consumption.
Site types & loops
- Commercial use of the cabin is prohibited.
General
- Learn more about the Tongass National Forest
Wildlife & food storage
- Be vigilant for the European Green Crab and report any sightings to help with management efforts.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: November 5, 2026
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Managed by the USDA Forest Service