Have you ever wanted to spend time in a trapper’s shack deep in the Alaska Bush? A place where you might see the outline of a loon’s head against slate water with Denali gleaming above the trees and no other movement? Nestled on a peninsula on a lake deep inside the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, Lynx Lake Cabin 1 is private, snug and cozy. An early-to-bed, early-to-rise retreat with a weathered, lived-in vibe.

Just The Basics

The cabin may be perfect for a small party looking for low-key basics — a couple, or a family with small children. Its small space becomes an asset on frigid nights because it’s easier to heat. The cabin also offers great first night stop for small parties traveling the canoe trail with later reservations at the larger Lynx Lake cabins further south or James Lake cabin a mile or two to the west.

Amenities

A rustic 12-by-12 cabin overlooking the northeast lobe of Lynx Lake with a view of Denali and Mt. Foraker. It offers sleeping space for four on wooden platform and bench, wood stove, table and cooking space. Outside is a fire ring, outhouse and picnic table.

Good fishing along the shore and in the mouth of the stream inlet north of the cabin.

Lake water must be purified. Burnable wood may be sparse near the cabin and challenging to find during winter. Be prepared to gather and transport wood from surrounding public land. Respect private property in the vicinity.

What Can You Do At Lynx Lake Cabin 1?

  • Paddling and fishing on Lynx Lake, known for its Northern pike and interesting shoreline.
  • Snow-adventures of all kinds on the extensive winter trail system crossing the lake — skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing.
  • Hunker down with a book in the eerie quiet of midnight sunset, or listen to the crackle of your fire during the pitch dark of a January evening.
  • Watch for wildlife: nesting loons and grebes are common. Black bears and beavers in summer.

Getting There

Coordinates
Latitude: 61.639417
Longitude: -150.04975

Summer

Most people paddle the canoe trail system. Beginning at Tanaina Lake at Mile 4.5 of the Nancy Lake Parkway, the trail forms an eight-mile wilderness loop via portages to 14 lakes. (An south extension leads to four other lakes with access to the Little Susitna River.) Lynx Lake is half way through the loop. Most travel “counter clockwise” from Tanaina, starting east via Milo Lake, because the route covers more water and less walking than the opposite direction. Count on half a day. Portages can be muddy and buggy, so headnets, bug dope and the right shoes can be helpful. Be prepared to encounter bears and moose. Canoes can be rented from Tippecanoe Rentals in Willow: 907-355-6687. Floatplanes may land on Lynx Lake during summer. Here is a good PDF map of the area.

Winter

Depending on snow conditions and ice cover, you can travel by snow vehicle, skis, snowshoe, dog sled, snow bike or foot. Ski planes can also land. Check the park conditions report first. Beginning at the winter trailhead at Mile 2.2 of the Nancy Lake Parkway, it is about 5 miles over a route that crosses Bald Lake and turns south at Twin Ponds before reaching Shem Pete and Ardaw lakes. Alternative routes could follow extensive snowmobile trails or travel down Lynx Lake Road.

Break Up / Freeze Up

Lynx Lake Cabin 1 cannot can be reached when the lake ice is too thin.

Driving Directions

Photos

Lynx Lake Cabin #1