Mckinley Trail Cabin
4.157 reviewsPO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Mckinley Trail Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for the cabin is $75 throughout the year. This fee does not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges. Additional reservation fees of $8 (online/app), $9 (contact center), or $3 (in-person) apply.
About this campground
Hidden deep within the Chugach National Forest, the historic McKinley Trail Cabin offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience in a cozy 12-by-14 log structure. This year-round retreat sits along the scenic Copper River Highway, serving as your gateway to the vast Copper River Delta's untamed beauty. Whether you're casting lines into pristine waters, tracking wildlife through ancient forests, or simply soaking in the solitude, this rustic cabin accommodates up to six adventurers with comfortable bunkbeds and a crackling wood stove that transforms chilly evenings into memorable gatherings. An outdoor pit toilet maintains the cabin's backcountry charm while providing essential amenities.
McKinley Trail Cabin is a single lodging option best suited for groups of up to six guests. It serves as a base for primitive camping and recreational activities in the surrounding national forest.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at this remarkable cabin, proudly listed on the National Historic Register as the sole surviving structure from the once-thriving town of Alaganik. These weathered logs have witnessed decades of Alaskan stories, from the boom days of early settlement to the quiet return of wilderness. Your stay connects you to generations of adventurers, homesteaders, and dreamers who sought their fortunes in this rugged landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the gentle side of Alaska's temperament, with comfortable temperatures hovering between 49°F and 57°F. The region's signature mist and rain create an ethereal atmosphere as clouds drift through the towering spruce and hemlock, painting the landscape in countless shades of green. This moody weather adds to the mystique of your wilderness adventure, making rain gear as essential as your sense of wonder.
ElevationNestled within the dramatic mountainous terrain of the Chugach range, the cabin offers an intimate perspective of Alaska's vertical wilderness. While specific elevation details remain part of the landscape's mystery, visitors find themselves immersed in a world where mountain peaks disappear into clouds and valleys echo with the sounds of cascading streams.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce and hemlock create a cathedral-like canopy above the cabin, their ancient trunks standing as silent sentinels in this pristine wilderness. The surrounding steep mountainous terrain provides a dramatic backdrop for wildlife encounters that define the Alaskan experience. Watch for graceful Sitka black-tailed deer picking their way through the underbrush, majestic moose browsing in nearby clearings, and both black and brown bears foraging in their natural habitat. The nearby Copper River Delta and Pipeline Lakes Trail offer endless exploration opportunities through one of North America's most important wetland ecosystems, where countless waterfowl create a symphony of calls during migration seasons.
Geological RegionThe McKinley Trail Cabin sits at the intersection of two magnificent natural worlds within the Chugach National Forest. Dense spruce and hemlock forests blanket the steep mountainous terrain, creating a lush green tapestry that stretches to the horizon. Just beyond lies the expansive Copper River Delta, where ancient glacial processes have carved a landscape of incredible diversity. The nearby Pipeline Lakes Trail winds through this geological wonderland, offering glimpses into the powerful forces that shaped this corner of Alaska over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit mention of accessibility features for people with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12-by-14 feet, offering space for up to six guests.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy. While the cabin is in a dense forest, user reviews mention daytime traffic on the trail and occasional visitors attempting to enter the cabin.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra firewood, bear safety gear, mosquito repellents, and supplies for extended stays. Consider visiting in late August to watch red salmon spawning in the nearby lake.
Best CampsitesThe only campsite available is the McKinley Trail Cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights and up to 7 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six guests allowed per site.
Groups
No group sites are specified for this facility.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle site cabin accessible via trailhead.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed for this cabin, but walk-up availability details are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for any reservation cancellation. Additional late cancellation fees include forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McKinley Trail Cabin offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, hunting, boating, and camping. The trail connects to nearby lakes and historical sites, such as the Lucky Strike Mine. Specific seasons offer unique opportunities, such as bear viewing in spring and salmon spawning in late summer and autumn.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the McKinley Trail leading to McKinley Lake Cabin and Pipeline Lakes Trail. Highlights include exploring the Lucky Strike Mine site and scenic muskeg meadows. Trails range from 0.25 miles to 2.25 miles and cater to varying skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Alaganik Slough and other spots. Seasonal coho salmon fishing peaks in late August and September when salmon move upriver to spawn. Reviews highlight salmon sightings in waterways near the cabin.Swimming
Visitors can swim in McKinley Lake during summer. The lake is accessible via the McKinley Trail.Boating
Boating is possible on the lakes near the cabin, with user reviews describing boating experiences on nearby rivers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes sightings of Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, waterfowl, and both black and brown bears. Spring offers prime bear viewing opportunities on south-facing slopes.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are possible on McKinley Lake and other nearby waterways.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must use locally sourced firewood to prevent tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours are No specified quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with bears, mosquitos, and inclement weather that may cause extended stays. Visitors should prepare for additional supplies and practice wildlife safety.
Active alertsUser reviews indicated road construction noise near the cabin, which might affect the camping experience.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services can be accessed in Cordova, 21 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash and food. Garbage bags should be brought by visitors for effective waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is near Alaganik Slough and McKinley Lake, popular for fishing and salmon spawning.
Common complaintsComplaints include cabin cleanliness, small firewood stove size, noisy road construction, lack of privacy due to trail traffic, and mosquitos inside the cabin.
HostContact the Cordova Ranger District at (907) 424-7661 for assistance.
Campground Map
PO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by motor vehicle and a short walk from the McKinley Trail trailhead. From Cordova, drive 21 miles east on the Copper River Highway. The trailhead for the cabin is located at mile 21. The cabin is approximately 80 yards from the road on the McKinley Lake Trail.
The cabin is accessible via the Copper River Highway, a two-lane dirt road that sees between 10 to 75 vehicles per day. The trailhead is just off the highway, providing straightforward access by motor vehicle and a short walk.Nearby places
Cordova (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car depending on road conditions).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including food, fuel, and camping supplies, are located in Cordova, approximately 21 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
7 reviews
Mckinley Trail Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for McKinley Trail Cabin highlight its convenience, natural surroundings, and historical significance. Positive sentiments include easy access to trails, wildlife encounters, and comfortable facilities. Common complaints include issues with cleanliness, maintenance, and noise from nearby road construction.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean pit toilet and wood stove, proximity to trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 'Perfect quaint night with nature' and 'great cabin if you're looking for easy access...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some guests report noise from road construction and lack of privacy due to trail traffic. Maintenance issues, such as a broken stove floo, are also highlighted.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellents. Consider stocking dry wood for the next visitors. User advice includes packing extra supplies and being prepared for weather changes.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention salmon spawning, swimming, and berry bushes around the cabin. Winter reviews focus on snowshoeing and skiing, with some users recommending extended stays due to weather...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The cabin is older, very dirty so we did a lot of clean up before getting comfortable.' (Kay) 'Very noisy, with a generator and pump running all night.' (Michele S) 'The cabin was amazing! Very...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews frequently mention campsite C07 in the McKinley Trail Cabin area, praising cleanliness and accessibility. However, road construction noise is noted.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025