Middle Ridge Cabin
05 reviewsP.O. Box 51, Wrangell, AK 99929, USA
Middle Ridge Cabin
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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
Cabin rental fees are $45 per night year-round, regardless of season. Reservation fees may apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Perched high on Wrangell Island, Middle Ridge Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. This rustic retreat accommodates up to 8 guests and stands as one of the few backcountry cabins accessible by vehicle during summer months, transforming into a snow-bound sanctuary reached by snowmobile or off-road vehicle when winter blankets the landscape. Inside, a crackling wood stove warms the timber walls while the sleeping loft offers cozy quarters above. Though you'll find no electricity or running water here, the cabin provides all the essentials for memorable wilderness living: accessible pathways, sturdy picnic tables, and an outhouse tucked discretely among the trees.
Middle Ridge Cabin provides a single type of accommodation: a rustic log cabin. It is accessible by vehicle in summer and by snowmobile, off-road vehicle, or cross-country skis in winter.
Historical SignificanceIn 2009, students from the University of Alaska Southeast-Sitka rolled up their sleeves and brought this cabin to life, carefully selecting and shaping local spruce logs into a testament to traditional Alaskan craftsmanship. Their handiwork stands as both a functional shelter and a living classroom, where every hewn beam and fitted joint tells the story of young builders learning time-honored techniques while creating a lasting gift for future generations of wilderness enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Middle Ridge into a sun-dappled paradise where mild temperatures invite leisurely swims in the nearby lake and afternoon forays through meadows bursting with wild berries. As autumn fades, winter cloaks the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for snowmobilers carving fresh tracks and cross-country skiers gliding through silent forests. Spring arrives tentatively here, with lingering snowpack sometimes delaying access well into the season—a reminder that nature, not calendars, rules this high country.
ElevationAt 1,500 feet above sea level, Middle Ridge Cabin occupies a magical threshold between worlds. Here, where muskeg meadows meet evergreen forests, the cabin commands sweeping views across a pristine alpine lake. The elevation creates its own microclimate—cooler than the coast below, yet protected by the surrounding forest from the harshest mountain winds.
Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits like a jewel in a crown of natural splendor, where spongy muskeg meadows give way to towering stands of spruce, hemlock, cedar, and lodgepole pine. Before you stretches a mirror-still lake that perfectly reflects the evergreen-cloaked mountains rising beyond. This pristine wilderness serves as home to an impressive cast of Alaskan wildlife: brown and black bears amble through berry patches, moose browse in marshy hollows, porcupines waddle along forest paths, and Sitka black-tailed deer appear like ghosts at forest edges. Overhead, bald eagles patrol the skies while a symphony of songbirds fills the air with wild music.
Geological RegionMiddle Ridge occupies a fascinating ecological niche at 1,500 feet on Wrangell Island, where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of stunning diversity. The bedrock beneath supports a rich tapestry of muskeg wetlands interwoven with dense forests of spruce, hemlock, cedar, and lodgepole pine. This elevated perch overlooks a pristine mountain lake cradled by evergreen-forested peaks—a testament to the glacial forces that sculpted this island paradise over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin and pathways connecting outdoor facilities are wheelchair-accessible, except for the sleeping loft.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 16-by-20 feet with additional outdoor facilities such as picnic tables, tent platforms, and a campfire ring.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a secluded experience surrounded by muskeg and evergreen forests.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Middle Ridge Cabin for its proximity to the lake and accessibility features.
Best CampsitesMiddle Ridge Cabin is the only campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time unspecified.
Stay Limit
- 7nights from May 1 to September 30
- 10 nights from October 1 to April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests maximum per reservation.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes a 16-by-20 log cabin, tent platform, picnic tables, fire ring, outhouse, and woodshed. Wheelchair-friendly pathways connect all facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via Recreation.gov, online or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; no first-come, first-served sites available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) also forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations made after check-in date.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Middle Ridge Cabin offers diverse activities for both summer and winter recreation. Summer options include berry picking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, and boating on the nearby lake. Winter activities feature snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Hunting for deer and upland birds is possible in the fall with appropriate permits.
Fishing
The lake near the cabin offers fishing opportunities. Guests are provided with a skiff and oars but must bring their own personal flotation devices.Swimming
Swimming is available in the lake adjacent to the cabin.Biking
Mountain biking is possible on the Wrangell Island road system.Boating
Guests can boat on the nearby lake using a provided skiff with oars. Personal flotation devices are required.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is home to wildlife such as brown and black bears, moose, porcupines, Sitka black-tailed deer, eagles, and other bird species. 'Wrangell Island wildlife includes brown and black bears, moose, porcupines and Sitka black-tailed deer.'Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.Water Sports
Limited to small craft boating on the lake, using the provided skiff and oars.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within the designated fire ring. Firewood for the cabin is limited; guests are encouraged to bring additional firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad is steep and challenging, requiring high-clearance vehicles. Wildlife hazards include bears. Water from natural sources must be treated before consumption.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Wrangell Ranger District office (accessible via Alaska Marine Highway or Alaska Airlines, approximately 20 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are expected to pack out all trash and food. There is no on-site trash collection or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly overlooks a small lake. Provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and small craft boating. A skiff with oars is provided.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention maintenance issues, including mold on cabin tables, broken boards on the boat dock, and unclean outhouse conditions. However, guests often compliment the peaceful ambiance and recreational opportunities.
HostWrangell Ranger District provides management and support.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 51, Wrangell, AK 99929, USA
Driving directionsMiddle Ridge Cabin is located on Wrangell Island, approximately 20 miles from Wrangell, Alaska. There are no roads to Wrangell. Access is by the Alaska Marine Highway or Alaska Airlines. From Wrangell, head south on Zimovia Highway approximately 11 miles to Pat's Creek Road (Road 6259) and take a left. Follow road approximately 4 miles to its junction with Road 50054 and turn right. The road becomes steep, exceeding grades of 15 percent, with sharp switchbacks and limited turnouts. Follow Road 50054 about 1.5 miles to its junction with Road 50060, making a sharp right. Stay on Road 50060 for the remaining distance. The cabin is located near the end of Road 50060.
Access includes steep grades exceeding 15 percent with sharp switchbacks and limited turnouts. Portions of the road are gravel and require high-clearance vehicles during summer or snowmobiles/off-road vehicles in winter. RVs and trailers are not suitable.Nearby places
Wrangell (20 miles, accessible via Alaska Marine Highway or Alaska Airlines).
Nearby supplies
Wrangell town (accessible via Alaska Marine Highway or Alaska Airlines, approximately 20 miles away) provides groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Middle Ridge Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Middle Ridge Cabin are mixed, ranging from glowing endorsements of the cabin's peacefulness and space to complaints about maintenance issues such as cleanliness and structural concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the cabin's spaciousness ('So much space and so peaceful to row the boat around the pond'), its scenic location ('When the weather is right there is no more relaxing and beautiful...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on maintenance issues: 'The outhouse was filthy and there was mold all over the table in the cabin,' and 'The base logs of the cabin are starting to rot.' Another reviewer noted...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring personal flotation devices for boating, extra firewood for the campfire ring, and water for drinking and cooking. Arrive prepared for potential maintenance issues ('Bring cleaning supplies just...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight outdoor activities like berry picking, fishing, and boating, while winter reviews focus on snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Maintenance issues persist year-round.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"So much space and so peaceful to row the boat around the pond" (Valerie M). "The outhouse was filthy and there was mold all over the table in the cabin" (Alicia S). "When the weather is right there...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention issues such as broken boards at the boat dock and rot in the cabin's base logs. Loop: MIDDLE RIDGE CABIN.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are positive, emphasizing wheelchair-friendly pathways and facilities, although the loft is not accessible.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must not be left unattended inside the cabin or tied up on-site or to the cabin exterior. No specific pet-related reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025