About REFLECTION LAKE CABIN
Overview Reflection Lake Cabin is situated on the Cleveland Peninsula at the shore of Reflection Lake approximately 50 air miles from Ketchikan. The cabin is available year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its recreation options, beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane or boat, depending on conditions. Boats can be moored in Short Bay, and visitors can hike 2.3 miles to the cabin along the Reflection Lake Trail. This primitive cabin has no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation Fishing, boating, hiking and hunting are popular options at this cabin. Steelhead and salmon runs occur in Short Creek. Resident trout and Dolly Varden are available in the lake. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. The skiff can use a short-shaft motor, which is not provided. The 2.3-mile Reflection Lake Trail spans from Short Bay in northern Behm Canal to Reflection Lake Cabin. The bridge near Short Bay is out, so hikers must be prepared to ford the stream. This is only possible during low water.Facilities The 12x14-ft. ( pan-abode style ) log cabin accommodates 6 people with 2 single and 2 doublebunks. Other amenities include a table and benches, a cooking counter, food storage, broom, splitting maul, and an outhouse. A wood stove is provided for heat. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed. Drinking water is not available at the cabin. Visitors must bring their own water supply, but water is also available from a nearby creek and should be treated before drinking or cooking with it (water safety ). Visitors should also bring sleeping bag
How to Get There
Approximately 50 air miles from Ketchikan on Cleveland Peninsula, northwest of Short Bay. Cabin is on the northeast shore of Reflection Lake. Access is by float plane or boat. Two mile hike from Short Bay, where there is a mooring buoy. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for information prior to making reservations during these periods. Boat access is not recommended at this time due to lack of bridge across Short Creek.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to REFLECTION LAKE CABIN
Heading to REFLECTION LAKE CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for REFLECTION LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for REFLECTION LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232960) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to REFLECTION LAKE CABIN?
Approximately 50 air miles from Ketchikan on Cleveland Peninsula, northwest of Short Bay. Cabin is on the northeast shore of Reflection Lake. Access is by float plane or boat. Two mile hike from Short Bay, where there is a mooring buoy. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords R…
How do I contact REFLECTION LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources