El Cap Cabin — Tongass National Forest

Overview

Newly constructed in 2024, El Capitan Cabin offers a truly unique experience to visitors and locals alike. This waterfront, ADA compliant cabin, brags a scenic view of beautiful El Capitan Passage. El Capitan 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.

Recreation

Recreating in the great outdoors is what to do on Prince of Wales Island and the location of the El Capitain Cabin is in a location nearby oppertunitys to enjoy all that the island has to offer. Salmon fishing is popular during the summer months with access to of every salmon species. Hunting is a popular fall time activity as the deer come into rut. There are also great oppertunities for Beach Combing and other mariene sports including paddle craft and sea kayaking. Perhaps the closest unique feature is the El Capitain cave system which offers guided tours during the summer season and is the longest mapped cave in Alaska. Cavers mapped over two miles of passage from the main entrance.

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 Capitain Cabin located in El Capitan Passage is in an area of high geologic interest. The surrounding forest boasts old growth species such as Yellow Cederar, 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. Fishing for Salmon during the summer is a poular activity. The island has runs of every salmon species except Chinook as well as populations of Cut Throat trout and Dolly Varden.

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.