Cold Springs Trailhead

Overview

Anan Bay Cabin is popular for wildlife viewing due to its location near Anan Wildlife Observatory, where bears and bald eagles come to fish for salmon in the adjacent creek. The setting in Anan Bay also provides access to saltwater fishing, viewing marine mammals and paddling. The cabin is located about 27 miles southeast of the town of Wrangell, Alaska, and can be accessed by float plane or boat, depending on conditions. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

Recreation

The 1-mile Anan Creek Trail leads from the cabin to the Anan Wildlife Observatory. During peak viewing season, the months of July and August, Forest Service interpreters are on-site to provide current information on bear safety, trail conditions and bear activity. During peak season no one is allowed past the trailhead before 8am or after 6pm. There is a high possibility of encountering bears on this trail during this time. Fishing is only permitted from the shore at the trailhead between June 15th and September 15th, due to bear activity. Steelhead is available in April and May, and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden and pink salmon in July and August. There are opportunities to fish for salmon and halibut in the saltwater. There are no outdoor fires allowed at this cabin due to bear activity.

Natural Features

The cabin sits on a gentle slope leading down to the beach, overlooking Anan Bay. The surrounding rainforest is primarily Sitka spruce and western hemlock with some scattered cedar. The slopes around the cabin are gentle to moderate. The nearby lagoon is an intertidal area that often goes dry during low tide. The area provides excellent opportunities to view black and brown bears, harbor seals, bald eagles and various gulls (bear safety information ). The high number of salmon in nearby Anan Creek allows visitors the opportunity to view their seasonal spawning in the months of July and August.

Charges & Cancellations