Upper Russian Lake Cabin

The feel

Upper Russian Lake Cabin is a rustic trapper-style log cabin, refurbished to keep the old fashioned charm of the 1950s. It is set back from the north shore of Upper Russian Lake in an open grove of giant cottonwoods, with views of the lake and mountains beyond.

A rowboat with oars is provided for fishing and boating on the lake, where Dolly Varden and rainbow trout are the catch. The cabin has a table, a wood stove, a splitting maul, a crosscut saw and an outhouse.

What to expect

Layout and setting

Bunk space for six, maximum occupancy of eight. It has a rowboat with oars and an outhouse.

Check-in and stay

Check-in and check-out are at 12pm. Stays are limited to seven consecutive days, and three consecutive days from May 15 to August 31.

Crowds and best time

Snow can remain on the upper end of the Russian Lakes Trail into the early part of June.

Parking and rig size

Parking is at the trailhead on Snug Harbor Road. Winter parking is at mile 9 of Snug Harbor Road.

Fees and reservations

$50 to $75 per night depending on season: $75 from May 1 to September 30 and $50 from October 1 to April 30, plus a non-refundable Recreation.gov service fee. Reserve up to 180 days in advance.

Hazards

Winter travelers need to be able to evaluate avalanche and over-ice travel conditions.

Bathrooms and water

An outhouse stands at the cabin. No potable water, so bring your own, and boil or treat water from the lake and streams.

Season and access

Open year-round. The cabin is on the Russian Lakes Trail, 9 miles from Cooper Lake Road or 12 miles from the Russian River Campground; in winter it is 12 and 13 miles. The trail is closed to pack and saddle stock April 1 to June 30.

Mingo says

Pick a stay between October 1 and April 30 if you want the lower rate. For a summer trip, wait until the upper trail clears of snow in June.

Before you go

• Buy a state fishing permit and bring your own tackle; fishing equipment is not provided.
• Pack bedding and sleeping pads, flashlights, cooking gear, food, clothing and cooking utensils.
• Carry water in, and pack out all garbage and food.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178, or reserve at 1-877-444-6777.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.