Planning a trip to Devils Pass Cabin along Resurrection Pass? This public-use cabin sits in an alpine valley near Cooper Landing, Alaska.
The trail to the cabin is a 10.2-mile one-way hike from the Devils Pass Trail or a 16.7-mile one-way hike from Resurrection Pass Trail South.
In this post, I’m going to review the Devil’s Pass public use cabin.
Devil’s Pass Cabin Review
Devil’s Pass Cabin is a 16×16 foot public use cabin that sits in a beautiful valley in the Kenai Mountains near Cooper Landing.
It’s available to reserve year-round, although it can be difficult to access during certain times of the year due to snow conditions.
Cabin Amenities
- Wooden sleeping platforms
- Oil heating stove
- Wood table with bench seating
- Small deck
- Pit latrine
The cabin is equipped with an oil-heating stove and I will say that it’s a bit tricky to light. Read the logbook for tips on using the stove.
Cabin users are responsible for supplying their own oil, but you may find some that the previous guest left behind. You usually do not need any oil in the summer months but in other months, it is recommended to bring one gallon of oil for 10 hours of heating on a medium setting.
The cabin is small and sleeps six people on two wooden sleeping platforms. There is a max occupancy of eight people. It is equipped with counter space, a table, and benches.
Devils Pass Cabin also has an outhouse with one of the best views on the trail. Make sure to carry a headlamp with you as the days get darker because it’s hard to see and feels a little creepy making your way to the outhouse at night.
There is NO running water, electricity, or trash service in the cabin. You will have to pack out what you pack in. You may want to bring some cleaning wipes so you can tidy up before and after your stay.
Juneau Creek is near the cabin which you can use as a water source. Make sure to purify your water before using it.
Devils Pass Cabin Location
The trail to the cabin starts from the Devils Pass Trailhead along the Seward Highway. You can also access the cabin from either side of the Resurrection Pass Trail. There is a small parking lot that you can leave your vehicle in for multiple days if needed.
The cabin is located at the intersection of Devil’s Creek Trail and Resurrection Pass Trail and sits at an elevation of 2,400 feet.
The cabin is above the treeline and surrounded by subalpine vegetation of low shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers, which is why you won’t find a wood stove inside.
The views from the cabin are amazing. I love sitting on the deck with a cup of tea and watching the sun go down.
Parking is included in the cost of the cabin. Make sure to print out your Alaska State Parks parking permit and fill in your registration number to avoid getting a ticket.
Trail Difficulty
Devils Creek to Devils Pass Cabin – 10.2 miles one-way
Devils Creek Trail is the most direct route to Devil’s Pass Cabin. This route is about 10.2 miles and it’s a great trail to bike in from. It’s not advised to take this route during the winter.
Resurrection Pass Trail South to Devil’s Pass Cabin – 16.7 miles one-way
From Resurrection Pass Trail South, it’s about 16.7 miles one-way. The trail is well-maintained and usually highly trafficked during the summer months.
Resurrection Pass Trail North to Devils Pass Cabin – 21.5 miles one-way
From Resurrection Pass Trail North, it’s about 21.5 miles one-way. This would be the longer route and it wouldn’t make sense to access the cabin from this side unless you’re on a multi-night trip or biking in.
There are a total of eight public use cabins along this trail if you want to add another night or two to your trip.
Winter Access
Winter travel on Devil’s Creek Trail is not recommended past mile 3 due to many hazardous avalanche zones. Recommended winter access is via Resurrection Pass Trail.
Winter travelers need to be able to evaluate avalanche and over-ice travel conditions. For more current travel conditions call the park rangers.
It’s important to note that winter access can be very difficult on foot or bike. It’s much easier during odd years, which is when motorized use is allowed on the trail. This allows snow machines to help pack down a good trail for hiking or fat-biking to the cabin.
Nearby Activities
If you have enough time, you can hike up some of the nearby mountains or head to a nearby creek or lake to fish.
How to Reserve Devils Pass Public Use Cabin
To reserve the cabin, you will need to visit the reservation site here. The cabin costs $75 per night during peak season (May 1-Sep 30).
Check-in/Check-out Times
- Check-in time: 12:00 p.m.
- Check-out time: 12:00 p.m.
Resurrection Pass Trail Public Use Cabins
There are eight public use cabins along the trail. It is unlawful to use a public recreation cabin without a cabin permit, so make sure to book your reservation online.
Here is a list of cabins with mile markers:
Northbound
Trout Lake Cabin (Mile 7.3)
Romig Cabin (Mile 9.0)
Juneau Lake Cabin (Mile 9.5)
Swan Lake Cabin (Mile 12.7)
Southbound
Caribou Creek Cabin (Mile 7.1)
Fox Creek Cabin (Mile 11.7)
East Creek Cabin (Mile 14.5)
Devils Pass Cabin (Mile 21.5)
Conclusion: Here’s What I Really Think…
If you’re looking for an overnight backpacking adventure near Cooper Landing Alaska, then I recommend staying at Devils Pass Cabin.
Resurrection Pass Trail is an incredible thru-hike in a beautiful area that everyone should experience. The cabin is situated in a great location and the views from the cabin deck are amazing!
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Do you have any questions about the this public use cabin in Cooper Landing? Leave them in the comments.
