Thayer Lake Lodge

Angoon, AK 99820, Angoon, United States

Overview

Thayer Lake Lodge is a remote wilderness lodge in Angoon, Alaska (99820), associated with access to Admiralty Island and the Kootznahoo Inlet area. Guest accounts describe it as a quiet retreat intentionally free from crowds and typical tourism infrastructure. The lodge was built in the late 1940s by Robert and Edith Nelson and is now operated by second-generation Nelson family members.

Setting & Outdoor Access

This lodge is positioned for self-propelled exploration, with guests describing kayaking and paddling routes through Kootznahoo Inlet and time spent around Mitchell Bay. Reaching the lodge can involve hiking a trail to Thayer Lake and continuing onward by canoe, reflecting the property’s backcountry character. Travelers note the need to understand local conditions such as tide rips in parts of the inlet.

Location & Nearby Points of Interest

Nearby points of interest include Killisnoo Island (about 19.0 km away). Air access options in the broader region include Angoon Seaplane Base (~15.4 km away) and Tenakee Seaplane Base (~44.2 km away), with larger airports such as Juneau International (~79.8 km away) and Hoonah Airport (~73.1 km away). Dining options listed in the wider area include spots such as Tracy’s King Crab Shack-Main (~73.6 km away) and The Island Pub (~71.5 km away), underscoring the importance of planning ahead for meals.

Best for

Thayer Lake Lodge is best for travelers seeking a true wilderness stay near Angoon, with a focus on paddling, hiking, and quiet time away from crowds. It particularly suits guests who value remoteness and nature over trophy fishing expectations or convenient in-town services.

Travel tips

Plan transportation in advance: access may involve marine travel to Angoon and/or flights via nearby facilities like Angoon Seaplane Base (about 15.4 km away), with major air gateways such as Juneau International much farther away. If you intend to kayak or paddle in Kootznahoo Inlet, be prepared for local tidal conditions and potentially hazardous tide rips. Services and dining are limited in the immediate area, so coordinate food and logistics before arrival.

What guests say

Guests emphasize the lodge’s remote, unspoiled wilderness atmosphere and the absence of crowds and typical tourist infrastructure. Access and activities are framed around paddling and hiking, including routes through Kootznahoo Inlet and a trail to Thayer Lake. Reviews highlight that planning is essential—especially for transportation and food—because services and entertainment options are limited. A notable caution mentioned is the need for awareness and education about local tidal hazards in parts of the inlet. The lodge is described as more about the wilderness experience than catching large quantities of trophy salmon.

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