About APPLETON COVE CABIN
Overview Appleton Cove Cabin was built in 1992 by Forest Service administrative crews for field housing during a period of logging. When logging was complete, the cabin became available for recreation. The cabin is open year-round and makes an excellent base for visitors looking to enjoy saltwater fishing, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing and hunting in this beautiful corner of Alaska. The cabin is located 30 miles north of Sitka, Alaska on Baranof Island, and can be accessed by float plane or boat, weather permitting. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation Many recreational activities are available at Appleton Cove, including saltwater fishing, seasonal deer hunting, hiking, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle riding and viewing marine wildlife. Anglers cast for Dolly Varden and pink, chum and coho salmon. A system of isolated logging roads are near but not connected to the cabin, allowing hiking and off-highway vehicle opportunities. Use caution on these rugged roads. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.Facilities The one-room cabin sleeps five people and contains one double plywood bunk bed and three single plywood bunk beds (no mattresses). The cabin is equipped with a table and benches, a cooking counter, a cupboard and a broom. The cabin offers an oil stove for heat, but visitors must bring their own supply of #1 diesel fuel (10 gallons for a 3-day stay, more or less depending on the time of year). Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags and pads, a cooking stove, pots, pans, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, a lantern, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter. Rubber boots and rain gear are recommended. Water is available from the stream behind the cabin. Treat all water before using. It's recommended that guests bring their own water supply. Learn about water safet
How to Get There
Accessible from Sitka year round, weather permitting. 30 air miles or 50 boat miles north of Sitka on Baranof Island just south of Peril Strait on the southeast shore of Appleton Cove. Access from Sitka, 25 minutes by float plane or 2 hours by boat. Occasionally winter temperatures can freeze the cove, preventing access during those times. For geographic features surrounding the cabin, refer to USGS topographic map Sitka B-4.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 9 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
- ☔
Rain jacket / shell
79% chance of precipitation in the forecast.
🎒 What to Pack
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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.
- 🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
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 APPLETON COVE CABIN
Heading to APPLETON COVE 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 APPLETON COVE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for APPLETON COVE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233049) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to APPLETON COVE CABIN?
Accessible from Sitka year round, weather permitting. 30 air miles or 50 boat miles north of Sitka on Baranof Island just south of Peril Strait on the southeast shore of Appleton Cove. Access from Sitka, 25 minutes by float plane or 2 hours by boat. Occasionally winter temperatures can freeze the cove, preventing access during those times. For geographic features surrounding the cabin, refer to US…
How do I contact APPLETON COVE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-747-6671 or email: SM.FS.r10_sitka_rd@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources