DESCRIPTION:
A subterranean stream emerges from a gaping cave mouth and cascades over
a series of small waterfalls. A short hike from the Whale Pass Road
(Forest Road 2700) to a wooden viewing platform provides a stunning
view of the cave entrance and the falls. The cave extends back about
150 feet and is open for visitors to explore. However, much of the
cave floor is under water and would require wading for most of this
distance.
The water flowing out of this cave originates
from a lake on the hillside above the cave. During the
spawning season, salmon have been observed running upstream
through the cave system and black bears are often seen
feeding near the falls. Trout and salmon fishing are also
an attraction at this spot.
LOCATION:
The cave is accessed by Forest Road 2700 near Whale Pass. Take State Highway 929 to State Highway 925 (Control Lake junction) turn left. Stay on State Highway 925 for 15 miles where it turns into Forest Road 2000. Stay on Forest Road 2000 for approximately 30 miles to Forest Road 2700. Follow Forest Road
2700 for approximately 3.5 miles (watch for signs) to the Cavern Lake
Cave Trail. For a more scenic route, from Forest Road 20 turn right
on Forest Road 3000 and follow this around Neck Lake and saltwater toward
Whale Pass. Before reaching Whale Pass, turn left on Forest Road 2700
and watch for signs to the trailhead.
TRAIL:
Distance: 0.1 miles (one way)
Trip Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easiest
Elevation Change: n/a
Trail Tread: natural tread trail
Recommended Seasons:
Spring
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Summer
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Fall
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Winter
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X
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X
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SPECIAL
FEATURES:
Over 600 caves have been recorded on northern Prince of Wales island
and several westerly islands. These caves contain a virtually untapped
resource of information about formation of the islands, past environments,
changing animal populations, and human uses of the caves. Cavern Lake
Cave offers a glimpse of this unique environment, providing a living
museum where you can observe and learn about karst topography and caves.
Be sure to hike Beaver Falls Karst Trail
to experience first-hand some of the unique features of
the karst landscape. And, take a free guided tour of El
Capitan Cave, the largest known cave in Alaska and one
of the longest mapped caves in the Americas.
Practice Leave No Trace
• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors
SAFETY TIPS:
• Discharging firearms is prohibited within 150 yards of buildings,
campsites, developed recreation sites, or occupied areas
• Fireworks or other explosives are prohibited
• Use only fire rings provided by the Forest
Service
• Be respectful of others and keep your
pets under control
• Do NOT feed or approach bears!
• Water for consumption should be treated
or boiled
• Rubber boots, rain gear and insect repellent
are recommended
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