Eagle Glacier Cabin
4.0318 reviewsJuneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Eagle Glacier Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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
Nightly rate for the cabin is $75. Reservation changes incur a $10 fee, and cancellations close to the start date will result in forfeiture of the first night's fee plus a $10 cancellation fee.
About this campground
Nestled deep within Alaska's wilderness, Eagle Glacier Cabin offers adventurous souls a year-round sanctuary where pristine lake waters mirror towering peaks and ancient glaciers. This remote haven rewards those willing to journey along the challenging 5.5-mile Amalga Trail, whether on foot through summer's verdant forests or on skis across winter's crystalline wonderland. Here, far from civilization's reach, visitors discover a peaceful retreat where nature's grandeur unfolds in every direction.
The Eagle Glacier Cabin is a remote, cabin-only camping facility. There are no designated tent or RV sites.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms this alpine paradise into a distinctly different world. Winter cloaks the landscape in deep snow and crystalline beauty, with temperatures hovering around freezing, creating perfect conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. As summer arrives, the trails come alive with wildflower blooms and ripening berries, though muddy conditions remind visitors they're traversing true wilderness. With temperatures typically ranging from 38°F to 44°F and frequent rain showers nurturing the lush forest, visitors should come prepared for the raw, authentic beauty of Southeast Alaska's temperamental climate.
ElevationThe journey to Eagle Glacier Cabin takes adventurers on a gradual 300-foot ascent through ever-changing terrain, where each step upward reveals new vistas and perspectives of the surrounding wilderness. Though modest in elevation gain, the trail's character shifts dramatically as visitors climb from dense forest floors to more open alpine approaches.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an ancient world where towering old-growth spruce and hemlock trees stand sentinel over centuries of forest secrets. The trail winds through cathedral-like groves before opening to reveal the breathtaking expanse of Eagle Glacier Lake, its turquoise waters reflecting the massive face of Eagle Glacier itself. Dense thickets of alder and willow create natural corridors where wildlife thrives - keep your eyes skyward for soaring eagles, while remaining alert for the black and brown bears that call these forests home. Industrious beavers have left their mark on the waterways, and the lake's surface often ripples with waterfowl going about their daily routines in this protected paradise.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Tongass National Forest - the largest temperate rainforest in the world - this remarkable landscape tells a story millions of years in the making. Ancient geological forces carved Eagle Glacier Lake from solid bedrock, while the patient work of Eagle Glacier continues to shape the terrain today. The old-growth spruce and hemlock forests represent some of the continent's last untouched temperate rainforest, their massive trunks and sprawling root systems creating a complex ecosystem. Dense understories of alder and willow thrive in the gaps between giants, forming an impenetrable green wall that speaks to the raw, untamed nature of this corner of Southeast Alaska.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned, and the remote location and challenging trail may make it unsuitable for those with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe cabin includes a sleeping loft and bunks, providing sufficient space for up to five people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote and secluded area, offering high levels of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and micro-spikes for winter visits. Carry extra water and pack essential supplies such as fire starter and trash bags. Reflective markers on trails aid navigation.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
10:00 AM
Check-out
5:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 2 nights per visit and 2 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 5 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with picnic table and campfire ring in front overlooking the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonCabin is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is not available for walk-up reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date, incurring a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations deduct the first night's fee and any previous fees. No changes or cancellations allowed on the check-in day.
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
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of outdoor activities are available at Eagle Glacier Cabin, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, berry picking, and skiing. The Amalga Trail offers access to the glacier and a nearby waterfall.
Hiking
Hiking is a primary activity, with the Amalga Trail leading to the cabin and extending an additional 2 miles to Eagle Glacier. Another trail from the woodshed leads approximately half a mile to a waterfall. The trail is challenging due to rough, muddy terrain, fallen trees, and swampy areas. In winter, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing may be required.Wildlife viewing
The area surrounding the cabin is home to eagles, black bears, and brown bears. The trail passes beaver dams, where beavers and waterfowl are often seen.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The trail can be challenging in snowy conditions, and micro-spikes are recommended.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned, though user reviews express a desire for such opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire ring available. Firewood is not provided and must not be moved between locations to prevent pests.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black and brown bears, rough terrain, flooded trail sections, and falling trees.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are located in Juneau, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 annually
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash and clean the cabin upon departure. There are no on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Eagle Glacier Lake, with nearby streams for water access.
Common complaintsTrail conditions are often poor, with reports of flooding, fallen trees, and rotted walkways. Some reviews complain about missing amenities such as firewood and spider infestations in the outhouse.
Campground Map
Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Driving directionsLocated 23 miles northwest of Juneau. Access by the Amalga Trail, 5.5 miles to the cabin from mile marker 27.3 on the Glacier Highway. The trailhead is on the north end of Eagle River Bridge and follows upstream on the north side of Eagle River. The cabin is also accessible by helicopter.
The access road is unpaved and includes the Amalga Trail, which is 5.5 miles long and challenging with muddy areas in warmer months and snow-covered terrain in winter. Helicopter access is possible.Nearby places
Juneau, 23 miles northwest
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping gear are available in Juneau, approximately 23 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
18 reviews
Eagle Glacier Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive about the cabin's scenic location, warmth, and seclusion. However, many express concerns about the poor trail conditions leading to the cabin, citing issues like fallen trees, swampy areas, and broken walkways.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cabin's warmth, cleanliness, and stunning views of the glacier and lake. Many reviewers appreciate the propane heater and the overall peaceful ambiance.
Based on 18 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the poorly maintained trail, lack of dry firewood, and occasional issues with the propane heater. Some users experienced discomfort due to the presence of spiders in the...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing proper footwear and rain gear due to wet trail conditions. Packing extra water or a water filtration system is advised, and micro-spikes or poles are suggested for winter...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits are often described as more enjoyable due to packed snow on the trail and clear skies. Summer reviews frequently mention trail obstructions and flooding, making the hike more...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is in a GORGEOUS location and well taken care of," said one reviewer. Another stated, "The lake is beautiful, incredible views from the porch of the stars at night in the crisp, clear,...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews are specific to the Eagle Glacier Cabin, with site J12 being the designated campsite for all reviewers.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility challenges are noted due to the rugged trail conditions, which include fallen trees, swampy areas, and steep sections.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences, although one user reported a porcupine near the woodshed and cautioned dog owners.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025