The lake provides floatplane access to the cabin, it is not recommended to access the area on the saltwater side of the spit for floatplanes and extreme caution is advised before considering approaching with a boat. The Lake may freeze as early as November 1, please plan and monitor your travel plans accordingly for the season.

The cabin is approximately 12'x14' with a wood stove, 4 bunk style sleeping platforms to fit four people comfortable and a maximum of six people, a basic supply of cooking pots, pans, and utensils for four people. Visitors should plan to bring any additional gear including a cook stove, lantern or LED lighting, sleeping pad and any gear or supplies they rely upon. The location offers great opportunities for hunting, fishing, kayaking and hiking, and some cabin users may also find excellent beachcombing on the near-by saltwater bay. Resident Dolly Varden can be caught in Pillar Lake. The cabin is located approximately 50 feet from the lakeshore, although water is readily available from the lake, it is recommended to bring your own supply of water for drinking and other needs or visitors are advised to purify the lake water before use.

A primitive, but marked, 1.8 mile trail leads from the cabin up Edge Mountain. The trail is steep and difficult to follow at times. Kodiak Brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, Roosevelt elk, and fox may be found in the area. Hunters should bring an electric fence to prevent bears gaining access to meat hung in trees or in the woodshed. Some visitors may want to bring a canoe, kayak or inflatable watercraft.

Some private (native corporation) lands adjacent to the park may require special permits to access. If you plan to enter these areas, check landowner requirements and policies.

Location:
Pillar Lake is located at the lower southeastern section of Afognak Island. The cabin sits on the far eastern side of the gravel spit dividing Pillar Lake from the ocean bay shoreline.

GPS: 58°10'53"N, 152°08'33"W

Special Notes:

** Pets must be under control at all times and you are responsible for cleaning up your pet's waste.

Weather - Afognak Island is subject to severe and unpredictable weather. Sea conditions can deteriorate rapidly: large swells, rough seas, high winds, and heavy surf occur frequently in open waters. The inner bays are generally protected, but in Alaskan waters hypothermia can set in within minutes. A large amount of annual precipitation can occur and summertime temperatures range from the low 40's to the low 60's (Fahrenheit). Poor weather can delay flights to and from the park so all visitors are encouraged to pack extra food and supplies in case they get weathered in. Always be ready for rain and wet ground/be prepared to stay dry and warm.

Bears - Kodiak brown bear (Ursus arctos) are found on Afognak Island. Be prepared for bear encounters. Respect the bears, give them the right of way and make a lot of noise to alert bears of your presence. Use caution, avoid surprise encounters, and follow all bear safety etiquette. Do not leave any food items or trash outside of cabins or otherwise accessible to bears. Discard fish and animal entrails in ocean or deep fast-moving water.

Communications - Carry signaling device in case of an emergency (orange cloth/flares/etc.). It is recommended to have at least one electronic communication device such as; satellite phone, handheld marine band radio or portable satellite communication system (SPOT type of device)

Carry first aid items, flashlight (particularly in winter), snack and a fire starter.

Surface water should be boiled or treated before drinking.

Please help protect shorebirds by keeping dogs under control at all times; do not allow dogs to disturb or chase birds or wildlife.

Always tell a friend, relative, or park ranger (907-486-6339) where you are going and when you expect to return.

Fireworks and explosives are prohibited.

Disturbing or damaging natural, cultural or historic objects prohibited.

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