Wooden Wheel Lodge offers many alternative activities besides fishing to keep the non-fishing guest occupied. Prince of Wales Island is known for its' extensive cave systems. These caves, formed of limestone and marble deposits, are known as Karst systems. The dissolving action of water on this soluble bedrock forms the many caves of the island.

The largest of these caves is the El Capitan Cave. Currently, the U.S. Forest Service operates guided tours and our lodge arranges reservations. The walk to the cave is strenuous with over 370 stairs. There are no improved trails or lighting once inside the cave so hard hats and flashlights are provided.

Cavern Lake Cave is always open to the public and there is a gravel path, which leads to a viewing platform overlooking the entrance. This cave can be viewed only from the exterior, as it is a flow through cave to Cavern Lake and cannot be entered without wading or scuba gear.

In 1999, geologist from the U.S. Forest Service were astonished when they discovered the oldest human remains ever to be found in North America dating back 10,000 years in a cave less than a mile from the lodge. They also recovered remains Brown and Black Bear, and a Caribou dating back 40,000 years at this same location. This important discovery has thrown scientists to work on a new theory of how North America evolved.

Wooden Wheel Lodge also offers eco-tours for wildlife viewing and photography. Prince of Wales Island is home to huge Black Bears, deer, eagles and wolves as well as sea creatures such as Sea Otters, whales, sea lions, seals and a beautiful array of colorful sea birds.

Guests can also opt to spend a day relaxing at the lodge. The lodge is located in beautiful Port Protection on the Northwest tip of Prince of Wales Island. The lodge offers a lovely view from the great room or balcony and offers an array of books and movies. There is also a wilderness boardwalk system in our quaint community of sixty-five people for strolling or picture taking.

We also offer you the opportunity to pick berries from our property so you can make your own Alaska preserves. If you enjoy shellfish, how about clam digging, shrimping, clamming or crabbing? Maybe you would rather stroll the beaches in search of collecting beautiful agates or other treasures? No matter what, you'll have plenty of alternatives to just fishing.