Chief Shakes Hot Springs, Wrangell

Chief Shakes Hot Springs, situated in Wrangell, Alaska, is a natural wonder renowned for its therapeutic and relaxing qualities.

It is located within the Tongass National Forest, surrounded by the rugged coastal mountains and the pristine waters of the Inside Passage.

The history of the hot springs dates back centuries when the Tlingit people believed in their spiritual healing powers.

Fun Fact: The site is named after Chief Shakes, a Tlingit leader who bathed in the springs to cure his arthritis.

Today, it remains a popular attraction and an opportunity to immerse in the history and beauty of this unique location.

What to Expect at Chief Shakes Hot Springs

Hot Spring Baths	√ 2 Hot Springs
Parking	√  Free Parking
Price	√  Free
State	√  Alaska
Temperature	√  140°F

Various amenities are available at Chief Shakes Hot Springs to help you make the most out of your experience.

Cool off after soaking in hot water at the site’s main hot spring pool and the neighboring stream connected by a boardwalk.

There are also changing rooms and bathrooms available for visitors to use. Chief Shakes Hot Springs offers a campground with tent and RV sites for those who wish to stay longer.

You can also reserve one of the three heated cabins on-site for a more luxurious stay.

Additionally, there are –

• Picnic areas
• A playground
• A volleyball court

What Time of Year Should You Visit Chief Shakes Hot Springs?

The best time to visit Chief Shakes Hot Springs depends on personal preferences and the type of experience you seek.

Generally, the hot springs are open year-round, but the surrounding weather and natural conditions may affect your visit.

The summer months, from June to August, are the most popular time to visit due to the warm weather and longer daylight hours.

However, this also means more crowds and potentially a less therapeutic experience.

Expert Tip: If you prefer fewer crowds and more tranquility, the winter months, from December to February, can be a great time to visit.

The hot springs are delightful during cold weather, and you may even glimpse the Northern Lights.

Ultimately, it’s essential to research and plan to ensure the best experience for you.

How Do You Get There?

Depending on where you want to start and what kind of transportation you want, there are a few different methods to travel to Chief Shakes Hot Springs.

If you’re coming from outside Alaska, you can fly into Ketchikan International Airport and then take a ferry or hire a boat to Wrangell. You can drive or take a shuttle to the hot springs from there.

If you are local to Alaska, you can take a ferry or drive to Wrangell, which is accessible via the Alaska Marine Highway System.

Once in Wrangell, visitors can drive to the trailhead, hike the 0.7-mile trail to the hot springs, or take a shuttle service during the summer. A local tour company runs the shuttle service, and reservations may be necessary in advance.

Where to Stay at Chief Shakes Hot Springs?

There are several accommodation options available for visitors to Chief Shakes Hot Springs.

For those who want to stay near the hot springs, the location has a campsite with tent and RV spots.

Also, three heated cottages available for rent provide a more opulent stay.

If you prefer to stay in Wrangell, there are several lodging options in the city, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.

The Grand View Bed and Breakfast in Wrangell is a five-star rated accommodation in Wrangell, known for its high-end hospitality, cleanliness, and coziness.

Some lodging options may offer shuttle services to the hot springs, but you should check with the individual establishments to confirm availability.

It’s best to book accommodations in advance, especially during the busy summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to Chief Shakes Hot Springs?

Flying into Ketchikan International Airport, taking a ferry or charter boat to Wrangell, then driving to the trailhead and hiking the 0.7 miles to the hot springs or using a shuttle are all options for visitors. The Alaska Marine Highway System connects Wrangell with the mainland via a ferry service and by car.

What is Wrangell, Alaska, known for?

Wrangell is most famous for its abundance of bird species, attracting bird watchers from afar. With some of the largest concentrations of bald eagles, many visitors flock to Wrangell from May to June.

Contact

Address: Wrangell, AK 99929, United States
Phone: (907) 225-3101

We hope this guide has provided insight for your trip to Chief Shakes Hot Springs in Wrangell! Have a great time exploring.