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Nestled deep within the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness of the Tonga National Forest in Wrangell, Alaska, you’ll find the ideal place to soak away your woes in the middle of some of Alaska’s most exquisite scenery. Chief Shakes Hot Springs is peacefully waiting for you and your family to come and relax for the day.

Hot Springs Pools

Chief Shakes Hot Springs is a free, day-use facility that has become a favorite getaway for tourists and locals alike in Southeast Alaska. With two steamy, 7’ diameter, redwood hot tubs to choose from, you can soak inside the screened porch or enjoy the fresh Alaskan air at the second tub, just steps away.

Image of the indoor tub at Chief Shakes Hot Springs in Wrangell, Alaska
Soak indoors or outside at Chief Shakes Hot Springs in Alaska. Photo by: U.S. Forest Service – Tongass National Forest

The water temperature of each tub can be controlled with hot and cold flow pipes, but it typically hovers around approximately 140°F. The entire Chief Shakes facility is maintained by the Forest Service and includes two hot springs tubs, dressing rooms, two outhouses, a picnic table, and a fire ring.

Camping

Tent camping is allowed anywhere within 100 feet of the trails that lead to the springs or the facility itself. Additionally, there are also two wilderness cabins maintained by the forest service that are located upriver.

Shakes Slough 1 and Shakes Slough 2 cabins are a perfect basecamp for exploring the hot springs pools as well as the rest of the Stikine River. Nestled within the uninterrupted wilderness, these cabins provide a safe overnight stay and spectacular views.

Getting There

Located 28 miles northwest of Wrangell, Alaska, along the Stikine River and off Ketili Slough, Chief Shakes Hot Springs is accessed by boat.

Most visitors should hire a guide service to navigate the tidal river or travel alongside a local. Plan for a full day of adventure and expect crowds if you choose to adventure on weekends, throughout the summer, and during holiday breaks.

Upon arrival, you will simply have to walk a 0.3-mile trail to access the hot springs facility. Chief Shakes Hot Springs is a special place in the middle of nowhere where friends and families can experience the outstanding Alaskan outdoors. Bring a bathing suit, towel, and picnic meal and make a day out of it.

As an added adventure, hike the nearby glacier with the same name as the springs and view the Canadian border just a few minutes away.

Details

Address: Wrangell, AK 99929

Phone: 907-225-3101

Season: Year-round

GPS: 56.726944,  -132.052222

Website: fs.usda.gov…