HUGH SMITH LAKE

Remote Wilderness & Floatplane Serenity: Yachting to Hugh Smith Lake, Alaska

Hugh Smith Lake is a secluded freshwater retreat nestled deep within the Misty Fiords National Monument in Southeast Alaska. Though inaccessible by traditional yacht, it’s reachable by floatplane from coastal anchorages, making it a unique inland adventure for charter guests seeking solitude and natural immersion. The lake is surrounded by old-growth forest and offers rustic charm with a remote lakeside cabin and pristine, mirror-like waters.

This off-the-grid destination is ideal for fishing, with excellent opportunities to catch sockeye salmon, cutthroat trout, and Dolly Varden in the calm shallows. Guests can explore the area by rowboat or follow trails through the temperate rainforest to discover waterfalls and the remnants of a historic cannery site. The setting is rich with wildlife, from black bears and bald eagles to loons and deer along the shoreline.

Staying at Hugh Smith Lake offers a rare pause from coastal cruising, providing a peaceful interlude in one of Alaska’s most remote wilderness environments. Whether enjoying a quiet evening by the water or trekking through moss-draped forest, guests will experience the raw beauty and deep serenity that define the Alaskan backcountry.