Denver Caboose Cabin
04 reviewsJuneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Denver Caboose Cabin
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee is $45 during the peak season from May 1 to September 30. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or additional incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time and into adventure at Denver Caboose Cabin, where a lovingly restored 1960s railroad caboose awaits in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. This one-of-a-kind accommodation offers intrepid travelers a chance to sleep in a piece of Alaskan railroad history while serving as your gateway to the spectacular Denver Glacier. Whether you arrive by the historic White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad during the summer months or seek a true wilderness escape, this unique cabin promises an unforgettable blend of nostalgia and natural wonder.
The Denver Caboose Cabin is a unique, remote accommodation option available for reservation during the summer months (May 1 to September 30). It is a self-sufficient, rustic lodging experience designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable cabin began its journey in the 1960s as a working caboose on the legendary White Pass and Yukon Railroad, carrying freight and crew through some of North America's most spectacular mountain terrain. After decades of faithful service connecting remote Alaskan communities, this vintage railcar was thoughtfully transformed into a backcountry retreat, preserving its authentic character while offering modern comfort. Today, it stands as a testament to Alaska's rich railroad heritage and the ingenuity of those who carved transportation routes through the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of southeastern Alaska at Denver Caboose. From May through September, mild temperatures and long daylight hours create perfect conditions for glacier hiking and wildlife watching. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in golden hues before winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow. Winter adventurers will find a wonderland of frozen beauty, though temperatures plunge to freezing and heavy snowfall transforms the caboose into a cozy refuge against the elements.
ElevationNestled in the river valley where mountain meets forest, the caboose cabin sits at an elevation that offers the best of both worlds - easy access to riverside trails and proximity to alpine adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to breathtaking vistas where the crystalline waters of the East Fork Skagway River wind through ancient stands of towering spruce and hemlock. The dramatic Sawtooth Mountains rise like sentinels on the horizon, their jagged peaks catching the first light of dawn. This pristine rainforest ecosystem teems with life - watch for black bears fishing in the river, majestic moose browsing in the wetlands, and sure-footed mountain goats navigating impossible cliffs. Every window of the caboose frames a different masterpiece of untamed Alaskan wilderness.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of southeastern Alaska's temperate rainforest ecosystem in the legendary Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Here, where the East Fork Skagway River has carved its path through millennia, the landscape tells a story of glacial sculpture and volcanic activity. The surrounding Sawtooth Mountains showcase the powerful forces that shaped this corner of the Pacific Ring of Fire, while the lush spruce and hemlock rainforest represents one of the planet's last intact temperate rainforest systems - a living cathedral of ancient trees and pristine watersheds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the materials provided.
Sites SizeThe cabin sleeps six people and contains sleeping arrangements with a double bunk and four single bunks. The narrow dimensions of the cabin may feel cramped for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is isolated and offers significant privacy overnight. However, during the day, trains pass by with tourists, reducing privacy during those hours.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring bedding, treated water, and heating oil. Plan hikes to Denver Glacier and consider taking the train to nearby Laughton Glacier for additional exploration.
Best CampsitesThe Denver Caboose Cabin itself is the sole camping facility within this site.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin can accommodate up to 6 guests.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin facility with a compact interior layout including bunks, table with benches, stove, and outhouse.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations between May 1 and September 30; closed during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov. Train transport must also be reserved in advance via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad at (800) 343-7373.
Walk-in AvailabilityCabin reservations are not available during the off-season. Walk-up availability is not stated; advance reservations are required during operation dates.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) deduct the first night's fee in addition to other fees. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Denver Caboose Cabin provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping in a rugged and scenic environment. Key activities include hiking the 4.5-mile trail to Denver Glacier and observing local wildlife such as black bears, moose, and mountain goats. The area is also ideal for photography and enjoying solitude in the Alaskan wilderness.
Hiking
A 4.5-mile trail to Denver Glacier starts at the cabin site, following the East Fork of the Skagway River. This trail provides scenic overlooks and opportunities to explore the rugged terrain. However, the trail becomes nearly impassable towards the end, as mentioned in user reviews like Linda M's, who described it as 'almost impassible at the end.' Nathan P also highlighted that the trail is 'beautifully maintained and gets little use.'Wildlife viewing
Visitors can frequently see mountain goats with binoculars and may encounter black bears and moose in the area. As noted in the official description, the site is surrounded by spruce and hemlock rainforest, making it ideal for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned; the cabin is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed using dead/down wood only.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with black bears, moose, and rugged terrain. Water from the local stream requires treatment due to silt levels.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible via Skagway city, approximately 5.5 miles south of the cabin area.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30
Trash and recyclingVisitors are expected to pack out all trash and waste. There are no on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is located near the East Fork Skagway River. Water is accessible but requires treatment due to high silt levels.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention disruptions from tourist trains in the morning and challenges converting benches into a double bunk. Limited privacy due to lack of curtains is another concern.
HostHost information is not explicitly stated.
Campground Map
Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Driving directionsThe cabin is approximately 5.5 miles north of Skagway along the East Fork of the Skagway River. The cabin is beside the railroad tracks at the Denver Glacier Trailhead. Access is via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from May 1 through September 30. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance for train transportation. Rate information and reservations are available by calling the railroad at (800) 343-7373.
Access is via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, operational seasonally from May 1 to September 30. Visitors need to reserve train transportation at least 24 hours in advance. Roads do not directly access the cabin area.Nearby places
Skagway (5.5 miles), Juneau (null distance)
Nearby supplies
Supplies must be arranged in Skagway, which is 5.5 miles south and accessible via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Denver Caboose Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with highlights being the cabin's unique structure, solitude, and wilderness experience. Visitors appreciate the proximity to the Denver Glacier Trail and stunning natural surroundings. However, some concerns include the intrusion of tourist trains during the day and the lack of curtains for privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
- Unique experience staying in a refurbished railroad caboose
- Proximity to the Denver Glacier Trail
- Solitude and peacefulness at night
- Opportunities for wildlife viewing
- 'The trail is...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of curtains, reducing privacy during the day when trains pass
- Issues with the double bunk setup, as noted by Linda M: 'Instructions inside the cabin gave detailed info on how to convert the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring water purification equipment due to silt in the nearby stream.
- Plan your activities to avoid tourist train schedules if you value privacy.
- Bring proper bedding and heating oil for a...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is only open during the summer months, from May 1 to September 30. Visitors appreciate the solitude and wilderness experience, but daytime train activity during peak tourist season can...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This stands out as one of the best Alaskan experiences we had. After the last train left we were all alone in Alaska and it was so peaceful.' - Linda M.
2. 'Remote and amazing stay right next to...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews center around the unique layout and rustic accommodations. Some users, like Nathan P, noted that the cabin's size might feel cramped for larger groups, while Bhreagh D found it spacious...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews were provided.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences were included.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025