Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter

Star0
4 reviews

Quick Facts

997 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewswell-maintained

"A small selection of user feedback highlights the scenic beauty and well-maintained trails. One user notes: 'A great hike to a gorgeous place. Very well maintained boardwalk trail with nature conservation in mind.'"

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Campground Map

Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter

56.4203, -132.3217

Driving directionsOption 1 - 3.5 miles from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead via Rainbow Falls Trail to Institute Creek Trail. Option 2 - 5.2 miles from the North Wrangell Trailhead on the Spur Road Extension via the North Wrangell Trail to Institute Creek Trail. Shelter site is at the end of the Institute Creek Trail.
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Best Time to Camp at Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter

The maritime climate brings dramatic weather patterns year-round, from misty mornings that cloak the strait in ethereal fog to crystal-clear days when distant islands emerge like jewels on the horizon. Summer months offer the most reliable conditions for viewing, while shoulder seasons provide a more intimate experience with nature's raw beauty.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Clear summer days highlight distant islands; good for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Maritime fall brings dramatic weather and possible color, but limited seasonal reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Misty, wet spring conditions common; trails remain scenic though often fogged.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Top 22% in AK

Winter sports available (XC ski, snowshoe) but maritime storms and short daylight reduce appeal.

Planning Tips
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About Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter

Perched above the pristine waters of Zimovia Strait, this scenic overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across Shoemaker Bay. From this vantage point, visitors can watch the ever-changing tapestry of Southeast Alaska's coastal wilderness unfold before them, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife traversing the strait's protected waters below.
The Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter caters to dispersed camping with a minimalistic approach. It primarily serves hikers, given its location at the end of a trail.
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Activities you can enjoy

The Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter offers opportunities for winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The stunning views of Zimovia Strait and Shoemaker Bay are a highlight for visitors.
HikingThe shelter is accessible via two hiking routes: a 3.5-mile trail from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead and a 5.2-mile trail from the North Wrangell Trailhead. According to a user review, the boardwalk trail is 'very well maintained with nature conservation in mind.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

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

Weather at Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter

Reviews

0.0
4 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Shoemaker Bay Overlook Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
A small selection of user feedback highlights the scenic beauty and well-maintained trails. One user notes: 'A great hike to a gorgeous place. Very well maintained boardwalk trail with nature conservation in mind.'
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the stunning views of Zimovia Strait, Shoemaker Bay, and the surrounding islands, as well as the well-maintained trails.
Based on 4 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific complaints were mentioned in the provided reviews.
Based on 4 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

No specific tips or recommendations were noted.
Based on 4 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No detailed seasonal variations in user experiences were mentioned.
Based on 4 reviews

Camper Quotes

'A great hike to a gorgeous place. Very well maintained boardwalk trail with nature conservation in mind.'
Based on 4 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews were provided.
Based on 4 reviews

Accessibility Features

No information about accessibility reviews or user experiences related to accessibility.
Based on 4 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No information provided about pet policies or experiences from pet owners.
Based on 4 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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