Camping at Windfall Lake Cabin Campground

Location and Access

The Windfall Lake Cabin Campground is situated in the Tongass National Forest within Alaska. Specifically, it's located near Juneau and is accessible primarily by floatplane or by hiking the Windfall Lake Trail, which is approximately 3 miles one way. This trail can be challenging due to the terrain and weather conditions, and visitors should be prepared for a hike that can take several hours to complete.

Cabin Features

The Windfall Lake Cabin is a rustic, wooden structure providing basic amenities. It typically offers:

• Sleeping Facilities: Bunks and/or wooden platforms for sleeping bags
• Cooking: A table and benches, with a wood stove for heating and cooking (wood may or may not be provided)
• Lighting: No electricity; lighting is limited to what you bring, such as lanterns or flashlights

The cabin does not have running water or indoor plumbing. Visitors should expect to treat or boil water from the lake or nearby streams for drinking.

Capacity and Reservations

The cabin has a limited capacity, generally accommodating around 6 to 8 people. Due to its popularity and limited space, reservations are highly recommended, if not required. Reservations can typically be made through a government website like Recreation.gov, and it's important to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Activities

The Windfall Lake area offers several outdoor activities including:

• Fishing: The lake has a population of cutthroat trout.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Tongass is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bears, which are often active around Windfall Lake.
• Hiking: Apart from the trail to the cabin, the area has other trails worth exploring.
• Canoeing/Kayaking: The lake is suitable for canoeing or kayaking but remember to bring your own equipment.

Bear Safety

Windfall Lake is in bear country. As such, it's important to take precautions:

• Food Storage: Use bear-proof containers or storage lockers if available.
• Be Alert: Make noise while hiking to avoid surprise encounters.
• Bear Protocol: Know what to do if you encounter a bear.

Leave No Trace

Visitors to Windfall Lake Cabin are expected to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment. This includes packing out all trash, being careful with fire, and respecting wildlife.

Weather and Preparation

Weather in the Tongass National Forest can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Visitors should be well-prepared with:

• Layered Clothing: To adapt to changing conditions.
• Rain Gear: As this region is a rainforest and receives a significant amount of precipitation.
• Navigation Tools: While the trail is marked, fog and rain can reduce visibility.

Fees and Regulations

There is typically a nightly fee to stay at the cabin, and users must follow all Tongass National Forest regulations during their stay. These can include fire safety rules, fishing limits, and other local conservation laws.

Conclusion

Staying at Windfall Lake Cabin in the Tongass National Forest offers a unique wilderness experience, but it is essential to plan, reserve early, and prepare for the elements as well as the rich natural habitat. Always check the latest information from the Forest Service or local ranger stations before embarking on your trip.