Spencer Bench Cabin

2 reviews

145 Forest Station Rd. PO Box 129

Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$85/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Glacier Ranger District - Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$85/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Glacier Ranger District - Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Spencer Bench Cabin

$85.00 - $85.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for the Spencer Bench Cabin is $85 per night year-round. Additional reservation service fees of $8 online, $9 by phone, or $3 in person apply.

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-783-3242.

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 2 reviews

Most mentioned

viewshikingwell-maintained

"Overall, users describe Spencer Bench Cabin as a well-maintained and scenic destination, ideal for advanced outdoor enthusiasts. They appreciate the breathtaking views, sturdy cabin construction, and abundant outdoor activities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

145 Forest Station Rd. PO Box 129

Spencer Bench Cabin

145 Forest Station Rd. PO Box 129

Driving directionsTo catch the train (reservations required) into the Spencer Whistle Stop, drive south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway to the Portage Rail Depot (Milepost 80) and check in at the Train station. In the winter months there are 2 snowmachine parking lots at Seward Highway Milepost 78 where snowmachines can access the Cabin by heading up the Placer River Valley. Note: Over snow access is condition dependent. Please call the Glacier Ranger District office (907-783-3242) for info on access via snowmachine.

Access varies significantly by season. During summer, the Alaska Railroad provides train access to the Spencer Whistle Stop, requiring reservations. Winter access is condition-dependent and can be achieved via snowmachine from Seward Highway Milepost 78, skiing, or chartering a ski plane or helicopter. Boating and hiking options exist but are challenging due to shallow rivers and wetlands.

Nearby places

Nearby supplies

Supplies, including food and kerosene, should be acquired before arriving at the cabin as there are no provisions in the immediate area.

Best Time to Camp at Spencer Bench Cabin

Summer arrives gently here, painting the landscape with warmth and occasional refreshing rain showers that bring out the fragrance of alpine wildflowers. Yet nature keeps her winter secrets well into July, with snow patches lingering on shaded trails like memories of the colder months. When winter reclaims the land, it transforms this alpine paradise into a pristine wonderland that demands respect and expertise. The snowy season brings both ethereal beauty and serious avalanche risks, making the cabin accessible only to those with advanced backcountry skills and proper avalanche training.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 10% in AK

Peak season Jun 1–Sep 15; gentle summers, wildflowers and good train access highlighted by reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Fall not emphasized; likely scenic but fewer services and shorter daylight.

Spring(Mar-May)

2.5 / 5

Snow and late-season conditions linger into spring, limiting access and activities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Open year-round but winter access is difficult and avalanche risk reduces practicality.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 1st to September 15th. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The cabin is open year-round. Summer reservations (June 1st - September 15th) are managed by the Alaska Railroad; reservations for other times are via Recreation.gov.
Current Alerts: .

About Spencer Bench Cabin

Perched at 1,900 feet where the forest meets the sky, Spencer Bench Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness retreat. This rustic trapper-style sanctuary in the heart of the Chugach National Forest offers more than just shelter—it's your front-row seat to one of Alaska's most spectacular natural theaters. From its weathered wooden walls, gaze out at the magnificent Spencer Glacier, the emerald waters of Spencer Lake below, and the sweeping expanse of the Placer River Valley stretching to the horizon.

Spencer Bench Cabin is a unique backcountry lodging option located in a remote area. It is accessible via trail, train, or other means of transportation.

Historical SignificanceThis humble cabin stands as a testament to Alaska's trapping heritage, its simple design echoing the practical shelters that once dotted these mountains when fur traders and prospectors sought their fortunes in this untamed wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently here, painting the landscape with warmth and occasional refreshing rain showers that bring out the fragrance of alpine wildflowers. Yet nature keeps her winter secrets well into July, with snow patches lingering on shaded trails like memories of the colder months. When winter reclaims the land, it transforms this alpine paradise into a pristine wonderland that demands respect and expertise. The snowy season brings both ethereal beauty and serious avalanche risks, making the cabin accessible only to those with advanced backcountry skills and proper avalanche training.

ElevationAt 1,900 feet above sea level, the cabin rests at nature's perfect balcony—just kissing the tree line where the forest yields to open sky. This privileged position grants access to rolling alpine meadows that stretch like nature's own carpet and rewards visitors with panoramic vistas that seem to extend forever. Here, you'll breathe the crisp, thin air that carries the scent of snow even in summer, and watch clouds drift below you through the valley.

Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your cabin door into a living postcard of Alaskan wilderness. In summer, alpine meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers—lupines, fireweed, and forget-me-nots creating a natural tapestry among hardy shrubs and native grasses. The crown jewel of this landscape is Spencer Glacier, its ancient ice telling stories of millennia past while feeding the pristine waters of Spencer Lake below. The Placer River Valley unfolds like a green ribbon through the mountains, offering ever-changing views as light and weather paint new scenes throughout the day. Keep your camera ready—this is prime territory for Alaska's iconic wildlife. Black bears forage in berry patches, brown bears fish the streams, wolves traverse ancient paths, moose browse in willow thickets, and sure-footed mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs with casual grace.

Geological RegionNestled within Alaska's legendary Chugach National Forest, the cabin occupies a special place in the Placer River Valley's dramatic topography. This region showcases the raw power of geological forces—where glaciers carved deep valleys, left behind pristine lakes, and sculpted the very mountains that cradle this alpine retreat. The landscape tells a story written in stone and ice, from the ancient bedrock of the Chugach Mountains to the living glacier that continues to shape the valley below. Alpine meadows bloom where glaciers once ground rock to soil, creating the perfect conditions for the spectacular wildflower displays that paint these slopes each summer.

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Check-in

12:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 3 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin can sleep 6-8 people.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layout.

Reservation PlatformsReservations for summer (June 1st - September 15th) can be made through the Alaska Railroad website or by calling 800-544-0552. For the rest of the year, reservations are available on Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot available for walk-up or first-come, first-served. A reservation is always required.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed with a $10 fee if made before 14 days of the arrival date. Cancellations within 14 days of arrival will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee in addition to the $10 cancellation fee. Changes to the reservation dates are subject to availability and require a $10 change fee. No cancellations or changes are allowed on the day of check-in.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The cabin is accessed via challenging trails or by train, jet boat, or float plane, making it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations.

Site SizeThe cabin can accommodate six to eight people. The interior includes wooden bunks and a table with benches.

PrivacyThe cabin is in a remote, elevated area at the end of Spencer Bench Trail, offering significant privacy and seclusion.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors planning a winter stay should be experienced in backcountry travel and prepare for avalanche conditions.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

The Spencer Bench Cabin provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing, skiing, snowmobiling, and other recreational activities depending on the season.

HikingThe Spencer Bench Trail leads to the cabin and offers scenic views of the Placer River Valley, Spencer Lake, and Spencer Glacier. Above the cabin, open alpine areas provide excellent opportunities for off-trail hiking.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing is available in nearby Spencer Lake and Placer River, although specific details about fish species are not provided.

BikingMountain biking is available in the Spencer Lake Recreation Area, but specific trails are not detailed.

BoatingBoating access to the area is possible via jet boat or float plane outside of the summer season. Kayaking and rafting are also popular activities at Spencer Lake.

Wildlife viewingWildlife in the area includes black and brown bears, wolves, moose, lynx, and wolverines. Bird enthusiasts may spot spruce grouse, and late summer offers a chance to see marmots and arctic ground squirrels.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAvalanche risks in winter. Black and brown bears frequent the area; proper food storage is required. Access is challenging outside summer months.

Active Alerts.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFires are not mentioned; guests provide their own cook stove for meal preparation.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are .

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are reachable via Girdwood (nearest town). For immediate assistance, contact the Glacier Ranger District at (907) 783-3242.

Trash & RecyclingGuests must pack out all trash. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided.

Water FeaturesA creek is located near the cabin; water must be treated before consumption. Spencer Lake is visible but not directly accessible.

Camp Host.

Weather at Spencer Bench Cabin

Reviews

0.0

2 reviews

Limited Reviews

Spencer Bench Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, users describe Spencer Bench Cabin as a well-maintained and scenic destination, ideal for advanced outdoor enthusiasts. They appreciate the breathtaking views, sturdy cabin construction, and abundant outdoor activities.

Review Summaries

Based on 2 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight the cabin's exceptional views of Spencer Glacier and the Placer River Valley, its sturdy and well-maintained construction, and the opportunities for hiking and sightseeing.

Based on 2 reviews

Common Concerns

No significant negative feedback was observed in the reviews provided, although one user noted that the top bunks in the cabin are slightly smaller and less comfortable for two people.

Based on 2 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend booking early, particularly during the summer season when reservations sell out quickly. Bringing adequate supplies, including kerosene, drinking water, and bedding, is strongly...

Based on 2 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight the cabin's accessibility challenges during winter due to snow and avalanche risks but commend the summer accessibility via train. Both winter and summer visitors are impressed with...

Based on 2 reviews

Camper Quotes

Mark Underwood: "Hiked up here in early July and spent two nights in the cabin. It's a sturdily built, well-kept place, with a fantastic view of the glacier." Kay: "We hiked the 3 miles up to the...

Based on 2 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific reviews focus on the Spencer Bench Cabin itself, with users praising its construction and views. No specific issues with the site were noted.

Based on 2 reviews