Laughton Glacier Cabin
05 reviewsJuneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Laughton Glacier 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 rate for the cabin during peak season (May 1 – September 30) is $45. Reservation fees ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person) and taxes may apply. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Tongass National Forest, Laughton Glacier Cabin offers adventurous souls a genuine Alaskan wilderness experience. This cozy 12x14 ft pan-abode style retreat serves as your basecamp for exploring one of America's last frontiers, where the journey begins with a historic train ride followed by a rewarding hike through pristine wilderness. Perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature, this backcountry cabin provides essential shelter while immersing you in the raw beauty of Southeast Alaska.
Laughton Glacier Cabin is a primitive and remote camping facility, accessible only by train and a 1.5-mile hike. Accommodations are limited to the cabin itself.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Laughton Glacier Cabin follows in the footsteps of gold rush pioneers, beginning aboard the legendary White Pass and Yukon Railroad. This iron horse once carried fortune seekers to the Klondike gold fields, and today it delivers modern adventurers to the edge of wilderness. The surrounding landscape tells stories of determination and dreams, where remnants of the past blend seamlessly with the timeless beauty of the Tongass.
Weather and SeasonsSummer in this corner of Alaska brings dramatic weather that can shift from brilliant sunshine to misty rain within hours, creating an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty. While the cabin welcomes visitors during the warmer months, the mountain environment demands respect and preparation. Pack layers for everything from warm afternoons to sudden snow flurries, and always check avalanche conditions before venturing into higher elevations. The unpredictable weather is part of the authentic Alaskan experience, where nature sets the agenda and rewards the prepared.
ElevationThe trail to your wilderness home climbs steadily through the forest, gaining between 200 and 600 feet as you ascend into the heart of the mountains. Each step upward reveals new perspectives of the valley below and brings you closer to the alpine world where glaciers carved these peaks over millennia. The moderate elevation gain makes this adventure accessible to most hikers while still providing that satisfying sense of earning your mountain retreat.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by towering spruce and subalpine fir forests, the cabin sits at the gateway to Laughton Glacier, where ice meets stone in a timeless dance. The melodic rush of the Skagway River provides a constant soundtrack to your stay, while summer wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant purples, yellows, and whites. This is prime wildlife territory where moose browse in willow thickets, mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs, and both black and brown bears roam the valleys. Every window frames a postcard-worthy view of untamed Alaska.
Geological RegionPerched within the dramatic Sawtooth Mountains, this wilderness outpost showcases the powerful forces that shaped Southeast Alaska. Ancient glaciers carved deep valleys through the bedrock, leaving behind the spectacular landscape you see today. The lush temperate rainforest thrives in this unique ecosystem where maritime climate meets mountain terrain, creating a verdant paradise of moss-draped trees and crystal-clear streams. From your cabin door, witness firsthand how ice, water, and time sculpted one of North America's most stunning geological showcases.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not provided for this campground.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 12 ft by 14 ft and accommodates up to six people, making it suitable for small groups.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is isolated and surrounded by dense spruce and subalpine fir forests, offering a high level of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers are advised to bring adequate stove oil (#1 diesel), water filtration equipment, and bear-proof food storage solutions. The wooden cooler box outside the cabin may not be functional.
Best CampsitesCabin J01 is the sole campsite available, noted for its riverside location and peaceful surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
.
Check-out
.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people can occupy the cabin, which includes two single and two double bunks.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site consists of one cabin surrounded by forest and near the Skagway River. Trails extend to Laughton Creek and Glacier.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to September 30 during train operations; closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the White Pass and Yukon Railroad at (800) 343-7373.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is mentioned, only advance reservations are required for train transportation and cabin booking.
Cancellation PolicyRegular cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for reservations canceled less than 14 days before the arrival date. Late cancellations for one-night stays forfeit the entire amount paid. Modifications to original reservation dates outside the rolling booking window incur a $10 change 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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Laughton Glacier Cabin offers a range of outdoor activities, taking advantage of its remote and picturesque location. Hiking is the most common activity, with a three-mile round-trip trail that leads to the Laughton Glacier. Other options include wildlife viewing and seasonal hunting with proper permits. As one user stated, "The glacier is nice and there is enough time to hike up to the base and stand at the bottom of the glacier, just make sure you pick a safe path and don’t stand too close or under the ice."
Hiking
The trail near the cabin is well-maintained and spans three miles round-trip, featuring an elevation gain of 200-600 feet. "Trails are in amazing condition," one reviewer noted. The hike passes through lush rainforest along the Skagway River and offers scenic views of Laughton Glacier.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including moose, brown bears, black bears, and mountain goats. "We have not met any bear near the cabin when we were there (but we met one while waiting for train pick up), but we saw a porcupine in the morning," a user described.Winter Activities
Heavy snowfall and high avalanche danger are noted for the winter season, which limits recreational activities. The cabin is closed during the off-season as the railroad does not operate.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campers may use fire pits located near the cabin and the river; firewood availability is limited and not regularly replenished.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear encounters, high avalanche danger during winter, and risks from melting ice near Laughton Glacier.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories reported.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services in Juneau, AK. Specific facilities such as hospitals or ranger stations not explicitly stated.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out their trash. As noted in official sources, "Visitors are expected to pack out trash, empty the cabinets and clean the cabin before leaving."
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is located near the Skagway River, and several small streams are accessible for water filtration.
Common complaintsIssues include difficulty finding stove oil (#1 diesel), declining firewood availability near the cabin, and no cell signal for emergencies.
HostNo specific host information is provided for this location.
Campground Map
Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Driving directionsAccess is via a 14-mile ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad between May 1st and September 30th to the Glacier whistle stop, followed by a 1.5-mile hike on a Forest Service trail. 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 involves train transportation on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad from May 1 to September 30, followed by a 1.5-mile hike. The railroad is closed outside of these dates, limiting access to the site.Nearby places
Juneau, AK: null miles (distance not explicitly stated in source materials)
Nearby supplies
Supplies may be available in nearby towns like Haines, AK, or at Juneau, AK. Specific supply locations not explicitly provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Laughton Glacier Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Laughton Glacier Cabin receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from users, who highlight its peaceful location, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. Some users noted challenges with finding the correct type of stove oil.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the cabin for its "well-maintained" condition, scenic location by the river, and the opportunity for glacier hikes. "Trails are in amazing condition," one reviewer remarked.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Several users mentioned confusion about the type of heating oil required, with one review stating, "We were trying to find out what is #1 stove oil (for heating) before we went but couldn’t find it...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing Coleman camp fuel as an alternative to #1 stove oil. A water filter is also advised to avoid carrying large amounts of water, as streams are nearby. Users also stress...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is most popular during the summer months when the railroad operates. Positive reviews emphasize the lush surroundings and manageable trail conditions. Winter is not an option, as the cabin...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is probably the best place to provide information for the newcomer like we were," said one reviewer about the helpful visitor logbooks. Another noted, "The bugs don’t bite us, I guess there...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews for this cabin (J01) highlight its peaceful ambiance and proximity to the river. "Cabin was so peaceful nestled beside the river," remarked one user.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are available for this site.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention experiences with pets.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025