Gut Island 2 Cabin sits on a remote island in the Tongass National Forest near Wrangell, accessible only by boat. Operated by the Wrangell Ranger District, this backcountry cabin offers a true Alaska wilderness experience with vault toilets and a 10-day stay limit. Visitors come for wildlife viewing and boating in summer months when migratory waterfowl, seals, and occasional whales are active in the surrounding waters.
Gut Island 2 Cabin offers cabin-style accommodations for visitors seeking a remote wilderness experience. The site emphasizes self-reliance and outdoor activities such as paddling and wildlife watching.
Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of long daylight, mild temperatures (typically around 55–65°F daytime and 45–50°F nights from May through September) and reliable access by boat. Wildlife viewing and boating are at their peak — migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, seals and occasional whales are most active, and tidal-flat exploration and paddling are easiest in calm summer seas. Crowds remain light compared with road-access parks (this is a remote cabin), though July–August sees the highest boat/
Peak months: July, August, June, September
Avoid: December, January, February
Elevation13 ft above sea level
Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin occupies the transition zone between temperate rainforest and tidal wetland at 13 feet elevation. Spruce and hemlock forest provides a backdrop, while expansive tidal flats stretch toward distant mountains. The Stikine River's sediment deposits have created meadows of grass and shrubs that flood seasonally. Late spring brings wildflowers across the flats. Brown and black bears move through the forest edges, moose browse the wetlands, and eagles share the sky with hawks and owls. Waterfowl and shorebirds use the flats as a stopover on the Pacific Flyway.
Lodging & AccommodationsThe Gut Island 2 Cabin offers hunter-style lodging facilities with basic features including bunks for up to four people, a table, benches, and an oil stove for heating. The Forest Service does not provide heating oil, and guests must bring No. 1 stove oil themselves.
Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered.