Taku Glacier Cabin
4.156 reviewsJuneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Taku 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
Facility rates by season are $45 per night for the cabin regardless of date range. Additional fees include $8 for online reservations, $9 via contact center, and a $10 change fee if modifying reservation dates.
About this campground
Deep in Alaska's legendary Inside Passage, Taku Glacier Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This year-round sanctuary sits at the edge of pristine Taku Inlet, where two magnificent glaciers frame your doorstep and the only sounds are calving ice and calling eagles. Whether you arrive by the splash of a float plane, the hum of a motor boat, or the quiet dip of kayak paddles, you'll find yourself immersed in one of North America's last great wildernesses—a place where time moves with the tides and every view could grace a postcard.
TAKU GLACIER CABIN caters specifically to those seeking a remote and rugged cabin camping experience. The site is ideal for small groups or families.
Historical SignificanceNull
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this glacial wonderland into a paradise for adventurers, with endless daylight illuminating hiking trails, calm waters perfect for boating, and hillsides bursting with wild blueberries. While certain weeks bring dramatic snowfalls that blanket the landscape in pristine white, the area typically enjoys moderate winds and surprisingly dry conditions. Pack your bug spray for peak summer months when mosquitoes join the ecosystem, and embrace the occasional distant hum of passing boats—small reminders that civilization, though far away, still exists beyond these wild shores.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself standing where ancient glaciers meet the sea, surrounded by a landscape that defies imagination. Sandy beaches give way to mysterious marsh estuaries, while towering old-growth spruce forests climb toward bedrock hillsides carved by time into dramatic canyons and soaring cliffs. Your panoramic views encompass the shimmering expanse of Taku Inlet, where snow-capped peaks pierce the sky and both Taku and Norris Glaciers showcase nature's raw power. This is prime wildlife territory—grizzly and black bears fish along the shoreline, moose browse in quiet meadows, mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs, and bald eagles nest in centuries-old trees, all part of an ecosystem that remains wonderfully, wildly intact.
Geological RegionNestled within Alaska's fabled Inside Passage, this remarkable landscape tells the story of ice and time. Here, where glaciers have sculpted the earth for millennia, you'll discover a fascinating tapestry of ecosystems—from tidal marsh estuaries that teem with life to pristine sand beaches that stretch along protected coves. Ancient spruce forests stand sentinel over the water, their roots gripping lightly forested bedrock hillsides that rise dramatically into steep canyons and weathered cliffs, creating a geological masterpiece that showcases the raw beauty of Southeast Alaska.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is equipped with wheelchair ramps connecting the beach, cabin, and outhouse, making it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. A tide of at least 16 ft is required for direct wheelchair-ramp access from the beach.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 14 ft. by 16 ft., with sleeping accommodations for six individuals.
Sites PrivacyThe site is located in a remote area, offering high levels of privacy with no nearby developed trails or facilities.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBe prepared with mosquito repellent during summer months. Previous campers often leave extra supplies; consider replenishing for others.
Best CampsitesCabin is the sole camping option.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sleeps six 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 location with accessible wheelchair ramps connecting the beach, cabin, and outhouse.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; season dates are January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including online and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellation penalties vary by inventory type.
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
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
TAKU GLACIER CABIN offers activities tailored for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, boating, salmon fishing, and hunting during designated seasons. Opportunities for both novice and experienced hikers are available, though no developed trails exist. Guests can gather wild blueberries in the summer and may encounter a variety of Alaskan wildlife.
Hiking
Hiking is allowed but there are no developed trails around the site. The terrain is suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.Fishing
Salmon fishing is available in Taku Inlet, making it an attractive activity for anglers. Permits may be required for fishing.Boating
Visitors can explore Taku Inlet by canoe or kayak during deeper tides (local tide charts recommended). However, the Forest Service does not provide boats or flotation devices.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as grizzly and black bears, moose, mountain goats, and nesting eagles are commonly spotted near the cabin. Visitors have also reported seeing seals and otters.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, though the cabin is open year-round and may facilitate snow-based recreation depending on conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like kayaking and canoeing are recommended.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are Boat traffic noise is common during summer days but reduces in the evenings.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of grizzly and black bears, moose, and mountain goats. High winds often prevent access to Taku Inlet. High levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) reported in the area.
Active alertsInvasive European Green Crab (EGC) found in southern Southeast Alaska, suspected to be in more locations on Tongass National Forest.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are expected to pack out all trash and food, as no trash or recycling facilities are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Taku Inlet, with marsh estuary and sand beach.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention mosquito presence and boat traffic noise during summer tourist season. Extreme remoteness may pose challenges for navigation and weather conditions.
HostNull
Campground Map
Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Driving directionsThe cabin is located 26 miles northeast of Juneau on the east shore of Taku Inlet. Access is by motor boat or float plane. Access with an inboard/outboard boat is possible but requires a high tide approach during a large tide cycle. A tide of at least 12 feet is recommended for shallow draft boats to reach the cabin; please check tide charts in advance. The cabin is approximately a mile south of Taku Point and 2.2 miles north of Davidson Creek, directly across the inlet from Grizzly Bar.
Access requires float plane, motor boat, or kayak depending on conditions. High tide of at least 12 feet is recommended for shallow draft boats; caution is needed for navigational challenges due to tides and winds.Nearby places
Juneau is approximately 26 miles away.
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Taku Glacier Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Taku Glacier Cabin is generally praised for its scenic location and the unique experience it provides in Alaska’s wilderness. Users frequently highlight the stunning views of Taku Inlet and the proximity to wildlife as major positives. However, a few reviews also indicate challenges related to remoteness and preparation requirements.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes the "stunning location" with glacier views, opportunities to spot wildlife like moose and seals, and the overall peaceful and remote setting. Visitors also appreciated...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users noted difficulties due to the remote location, such as the absence of on-site amenities like running water and electricity. Others mentioned the frequent presence of mosquitoes and the...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, adequate supplies (e.g., fuel, food, and water), and being prepared for variable weather conditions. They also suggest checking tide charts for boat...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife and the challenges posed by mosquitoes. Winter reviews are less common but suggest preparedness for heavy snow and freezing temperatures.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "If you’re ever in Juneau, you have to check out the cabin, take the plane over for the day, and enjoy the sights and nature." (E O, 2023)
2. "Lots of sunshine (and mosquitos…don’t forget the bug...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to the cabin’s sole site, J11, where visitors comment on its peaceful and scenic nature. Positive remarks center on the views and wildlife, while some concerns are raised about...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features like the wheelchair ramps receive positive feedback, though users note the importance of high tides for full access.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback is available regarding pets, but pets do not appear to be allowed at the cabin based on the rules and descriptions.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025