Crow Pass Cabin

4.15

15 reviews

145 Forest Station Rd. P.O. Box 129

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

3,500 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from June 1 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,500 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from June 1 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Crow Pass Cabin

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for reserving the cabin is $75. Additional fees for reservations include $8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in-person. Changes...

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-783-3242

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What Campers Say

4.15

Satisfactory

Based on 15 reviews

Most mentioned

scenery

"Overall, user reviews indicate the cabin is a rustic yet rewarding experience for those prepared to hike in and bring necessary supplies. The trail and surrounding scenery receive high praise, though there are concerns about the lack of insulation, needed preparations for the stove, and lack of privacy due to hikers peeking into the cabin."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

145 Forest Station Rd. P.O. Box 129

Crow Pass Cabin

145 Forest Station Rd. P.O. Box 129

Driving directionsAt mile 90, AK-1 S/Seward Highway (35 miles south of Anchorage). Turn left onto paved road leading to Mt. Alyeska Resort (Alyeska Highway). After 2 miles, turn left onto Crow Creek Road. Trailhead is at end of road (7 miles) and parking is available. Refer to USGS Map, Anchorage A6.

Access is via paved roads leading to the trailhead, followed by a 3-mile hike with an elevation gain of 2,080 feet. Seasonal snow conditions may exist from October through mid-June, and the trail includes small stream crossings.

Nearby places

Girdwood (3 miles to the trailhead)

Nearby supplies

Fuel, groceries, and supplies are likely available in Girdwood, approximately 10 miles from the trailhead.

Best Time to Camp at Crow Pass Cabin

Mother Nature guards this alpine sanctuary well, opening her doors only from June through October when avalanche danger subsides and snow releases its grip on the high country. Even in summer's embrace, the mountain weather plays by its own rules—cool temperatures and sudden precipitation remind visitors they're in big mountain territory. As autumn approaches or spring lingers, winter conditions can surprise the unprepared, making warm layers and weatherproof gear essential companions for your journey to this elevated outpost.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 10% in AK

Open June–Oct; summer offers wildflowers, clear hiking and glacier views—prime season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into October; late summer/early fall good for hiking and wildlife though conditions cool.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Spring is excluded by seasonal closure; snowpack and avalanches make access hazardous.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed outside June 1–Oct 31 due to hazardous avalanche conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 1 - October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from June 1 to October 31. Closed outside these months due to hazardous avalanche conditions.
Current Alerts: Seasonal avalanche warnings apply from October through mid-June. Snow-free conditions are expected by mid-June.

About Crow Pass Cabin

Perched high in the Chugach Mountains, Crow Pass Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. This rustic mountain refuge sits just 500 yards off the legendary Crow Pass Trail—part of the historic Iditarod Trail that gold miners and mushers once traversed. Today's visitors use the cabin as their basecamp for exhilarating alpine adventures, from challenging mountain ascents to pristine backcountry skiing runs. While the cabin provides basic shelter from the elements, true to its backcountry nature, you'll need to pack in everything from sleeping gear to cooking supplies, embracing the self-sufficient spirit of Alaska's early pioneers.

Crow Pass Cabin is a rustic rental cabin suitable for hikers and climbers visiting the Chugach Mountains. It is accessible via a strenuous hike, making it ideal for primitive-style camping experiences.

Historical SignificanceYour journey follows in the footsteps of countless adventurers who've traversed the Crow Pass Trail, a storied segment of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. This ancient pathway has witnessed the dreams of gold rush prospectors, the determination of early mail carriers, and the endurance of legendary dog mushers. Along the trail, the haunting remnants of the Monarch Mine stand as silent testimony to Alaska's golden era, when fortune seekers braved these rugged mountains in search of precious metals and new beginnings.

Weather and SeasonsMother Nature guards this alpine sanctuary well, opening her doors only from June through October when avalanche danger subsides and snow releases its grip on the high country. Even in summer's embrace, the mountain weather plays by its own rules—cool temperatures and sudden precipitation remind visitors they're in big mountain territory. As autumn approaches or spring lingers, winter conditions can surprise the unprepared, making warm layers and weatherproof gear essential companions for your journey to this elevated outpost.

ElevationAt 3,500 feet above sea level, the cabin claims its place in the alpine realm where trees dare not grow. Here in the open tundra, you'll find yourself literally above the clouds on many days, breathing the thin, pure air of the high country while the world stretches endlessly below.

Natural Features and SceneryFrom your doorstep at 3,500 feet, a natural amphitheater of wonder unfolds before you. The ancient ice of Raven Glacier gleams in the distance, while summer wildflowers paint the tundra in brilliant splashes of color against the austere beauty of the Chugach peaks. This pristine wilderness serves as home to Alaska's most iconic residents—grizzly and black bears roam the valleys below, while sure-footed Dall sheep and mountain goats navigate impossible cliff faces. Lucky visitors might glimpse wolves threading through the landscape or spot a massive bull moose browsing in the willow thickets. The alpine environment creates an ever-changing canvas where dramatic weather, dynamic wildlife, and raw mountain beauty converge.

Geological RegionThe mighty Chugach Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for your alpine adventure, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of soaring peaks and deep valleys. Above the tree line, the cabin sits amid classic alpine tundra—a resilient ecosystem of low-growing shrubs, hardy grasses, and specialized wildflowers that burst into bloom during the brief mountain summer. This fragile yet enduring landscape represents one of Alaska's most pristine wilderness environments, where every plant and animal has adapted to thrive in the challenging conditions of the high country.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum 3 nights per stay, and a total of 3 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 6 guests per cabin.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin located 500 yards off the Crow Pass Trail.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov via website, app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is available by reservation only; no walk-up availability.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled within 14 days of check-in. Late cancellations are not supported on the day of check-in.

AccessibilityAccess requires a strenuous 3-mile hike along the Crow Pass Trail with an elevation gain of 2,080 feet. The trail features steep switchbacks, stream crossings, and may have snow from October to mid-June, making it less accessible during these periods.

Site SizeThe cabin is 16x16 feet, suitable for accommodating up to six people.

PrivacyThe cabin offers moderate privacy but is located along a popular hiking trail, meaning visitors may peek inside during your stay. "Other people coming up to the cabin and looking inside while we were there" was mentioned in a review.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring 1 gallon of kerosene per day for heating, water purification supplies, and adequate gear for cold conditions. Consider staying multiple nights to fully enjoy the area.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Crow Pass Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, climbing, and historical site exploration along the Crow Pass Trail. "The section to the cabin is a popular trail for families, but does have steep switchbacks in places," noted the official description.

HikingThe Crow Pass Trail is a 24-mile picturesque section of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. Highlights include alpine hiking, waterfalls, the Monarch Mine ruins, and views of Raven Glacier. The trail requires experienced navigation and includes steep switchbacks and stream crossings. "Steep climb for the kids (ages 6, 9, 11) was WELL WORTH the effort," said one user review.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

Wildlife viewingThe area surrounding the cabin is home to black and brown bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, marmots, arctic ground squirrels, and white-tailed ptarmigan. "Mountain goats traveled through the camp, passing right outside the cabin," recalled one reviewer.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSeasonal avalanche risk, potential encounters with bears, and cold temperatures even in summer.

Active AlertsSeasonal avalanche warnings apply from October through mid-June. Snow-free conditions are expected by mid-June.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyNo information on firewood policies; visitors are advised to burn local firewood to prevent pests.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No information provided.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are likely in Girdwood, approximately 10 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingThe cabin requires campers to pack out all trash and food. No recycling facilities are provided.

Water FeaturesLocated near Crystal Lake and a small creek, visitors can access water sources but must treat the water before consumption.

Camp HostUnstaffed facility; guests can contact main office at (907) 783-3242 for general information.

Weather at Crow Pass Cabin

Reviews

4.2

15 reviews

Satisfactory

Crow Pass Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews indicate the cabin is a rustic yet rewarding experience for those prepared to hike in and bring necessary supplies. The trail and surrounding scenery receive high praise, though there are concerns about the lack of insulation, needed preparations for the stove, and lack of privacy due to hikers peeking into the cabin.

Review Summaries

Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include stunning alpine scenery, wildlife encounters such as mountain goats, and the rustic charm of the cabin. "Cabin exceeded expectations all around," said one user. "Steep climb for...

Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints center around the lack of privacy due to the cabin's location on a popular trail, inadequate pre-trip instructions for using the kerosene stove, and missing essentials in the outhouse such...

Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra kerosene for the stove (recommendation: 3 gallons for 2 nights), toilet paper, and paper for lighting the heater. Expect cold conditions even in summer and pack accordingly. Plan for...

Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter and shoulder seasons pose challenges such as unstable snowpack and hazardous avalanche conditions. Late spring through early fall is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing as the trail is...

Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Don't be discouraged, do this and fulfill that missing part in your life. Absolutely mind-blowing," said Anthony Thompson. "Wished we had brought 3 gallons of kerosene for our 2-night stay," said...

Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews mostly praise the cabin's location near wildlife and scenic overlooks. Complaints include lack of privacy and missing essentials such as toilet paper. "The cabin isn't well...

Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility challenges include a strenuous 3-mile hike with steep switchbacks and stream crossings, which can be challenging for families with young children or those with mobility limitations.

Based on 15 reviews

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