SOFTUK BAR CABIN

Softuk Bar Cabin is adjacent to a long and wide sandy beach on the Gulf of Alaska, surrounded by alder and spruce forest. In the distance, glacier-capped peaks rise from the horizon on a clear day. Wildlife in the area abounds, including waterfowl, moose, Sitka black-tail deer, brown and black bear.

Recreation: The sandy beach adjacent to the cabin is a good stretch for beachcombing in the springtime, after winter storms wash up Japanese fishing floats, shells, bottles and other wave-swept treasures. The area is not well known for its fishing, but there is a small run of coho salmon in the lagoon behind the cabin. Digging for razor clams and picking wild strawberries are also pastimes at the site. Hunters can take advantage of a long hunting season in the surrounding national forest. Bear season occurs during spring and fall, while deer season begins in late summer and lasts through late fall.

Nearby: For history buffs, the old townsite of Katalla is about 4 miles east of the cabin. This was the first place oil was drilled in Alaska, with the first production well drilled in 1902. There aren't many relics left from the oil drilling days and no original buildings are standing. Most of the townsite and drilling areas are on private land. Hiking toward Katalla is also scenic, however Cape Martin is difficult to cross at high tide, so check local tide tables before setting out.