Alaska is peppered with modest and affordable public use cabins with breathtaking views. If you want to take advantage of the opportunity to stay in one of these rustic gems, act fast; these humble abodes rent quick. Be prepared to rough it. Most cabins provide little more than a roof over your head. But the fresh air and fresh fish will make up for it. And don't forget the bug spray.
www.dnr.state.ak. us/parks/cabins/index.htm
Alaska State Parks offer more than 60 cabins in 18 different parks, as far north as Fairbanks and as far south as Ketchikan. Most cabins are situated along lakes, streams and trails and require hiking, boating or flying to get to. Cabins sleep three to eight. A wood stove is provided but firewood and mattresses are not.
Cabins are available year round in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Reservations are accepted up to six months in advance. There are 14 log cabins to choose from, each with a distinctive charm, surrounded by the amazing views of wildlife in the Chugach National Forest, Kenai Fjords National Park and Kachemak Bay State Park.
www.nps.gov/aplic/cabins/index.html
Many cabins throughout the state are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Higher demand cabins may be rented through a lottery system though. Knowing basic survival skills is a must. You are responsible for your own safety and making sure you have all the necessary equipment to make your stay safe and fun.
You may be roughing it but that doesn't mean your stomach has to suffer. This site provides mouth watering recipes and techniques for cooking them in the great outdoors, from charcoal and wood to foil and a stick.
Trip Tracker is compiled by Joy Guest. Is there a vacation or excursion that interests you? E-mail jguest@adn.com or comment online at adn.com/life/travel.
"Some people call them Alaska's best kept secret. It's a secret we're willing to share, just as long as you appreciate quite trails and great fishing, and you leave some split wood for the next traveler." -- Andromeda Romano-Lax, "How to Rent a Public Cabin in Southcentral Alaska"