I can't say enough about my stay at Kelly Lake Cabin of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabin. It was late Feb./ early March, and we were tired from our previous two days of camping and hiking, so when we arrived at the lake, we decided to drive the short distance on the lake instead of hiking out to the cabin with all our stuff. We parked on the lake in front of the cabin and were pleasantly surprised to see someone had left an igloo! The cabin was neat, the newest we'd ever stayed in, and had a wonderful view of the trees and lake. Even the outhouse had great views! The woodstove in the cabin was extremely effective at warming the space (we woke up sweating!), and the fact that the cabin came with an outdoor fire ring and boat made us want to come back with friends in the summer even more! Absolutely loved the space and our time there.

This section along Turnagain Pass is one of my favorites to drive, and Betha Creek Campground is right alongside it- I would imagine many don't even realize it's there! We got a campsite and slept in the VW Vanagon for the night, but enjoyed the firepit, the nearby creek, and walking around the peaceful and beautiful grounds. It was very accessible and made for a simple, easy weekend getaway.

If anything in Haines can convince you it's one of Alaska's finest spots, it's Chilkoot Lake state recreation area. Beautiful wooded campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and flat areas for tents.. and a short walk (often can see from your site) to the lake where a beautiful show occurs each time the sun sets. I never wanted to leave!