If you’ve ever wanted to spend a night in a genuine Southeast wilderness cabin but were scared of flying or afraid of water, fear no more. After a ribbon cutting ceremony tomorrow Saturday, the first drive-up cabin in the Ketchikan area will officially be open to the public.
The new 16×12 spruce cabin at Settler’s Cove stands on top of the old campsite number 10. The spot offers a view of Clover Passage and Betton Island. But the best part, according to district park ranger Mary Kowalczyk, is the obvious.
“For those that don’t have access to a boat or airplane or the funding to get one, they should be able to rent a cabin and drive right up,” says Kowalczyk.
The cabin was built with funds in the state of Alaska’s capital budget. Kowalczyk says the idea started at the local level, and was eventually brought before the state legislature for approval. The cabin was then built with at least $50,000 and the elbow grease of State Parks workers.
Kowalczyk says that the demand for more driveup cabins in this part of Southeast is definitely there, but the community’s input is crucial in building support for more funding.
“I’m sure more people would like to see that,” she says, “but people need to voice their opinion, and let the advisory board know, because most of this is coming from capital projects.”
The ranger says that demand for the cabin has already been high. In peak season she predicts the price will be set at $45 a night, with $35 in the off season. Reservations can be made on the state parks website.
Representative Peggy Wilson will attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the cabin Saturday. Coffee and cookies will be available for the public, and opportunities to win prizes for those that attend. There will also be face painting and other activities. Those festivities begin at 11am at Settler’s Cove.
