Denver Caboose Cabin

5 reviews

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Quick Facts

413 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Tongass National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

413 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Tongass National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Denver Caboose Cabin

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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.

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

907-586-8800

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

Some mention

train

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Denver Caboose Cabin

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.

Best Time to Camp at Denver Caboose Cabin

Experience 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.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open May–Sep; long daylight, mild temps, glacier hiking and wildlife viewing peak in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open through Sept 30; early fall (September) usable but season ends by month's close.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 1 so late spring is available; early spring months are closed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Facility closed outside May 1–Sep 30; winter season unavailable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations between May 1 and September 30; closed during the off-season.

About Denver Caboose Cabin

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.

Best Campsites

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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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin facility with a compact interior layout including bunks, table with benches, stove, and outhouse.

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.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the materials provided.

Site 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.

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 SitesBring bedding, treated water, and heating oil. Plan hikes to Denver Glacier and consider taking the train to nearby Laughton Glacier for additional exploration.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

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.

HikingA 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 viewingVisitors 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

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include encounters with black bears, moose, and rugged terrain. Water from the local stream requires treatment due to silt levels.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed using dead/down wood only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly stated.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible via Skagway city, approximately 5.5 miles south of the cabin area.

Trash & RecyclingVisitors are expected to pack out all trash and waste. There are no on-site trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesThe cabin is located near the East Fork Skagway River. Water is accessible but requires treatment due to high silt levels.

Camp HostHost information is not explicitly stated.

Weather at Denver Caboose Cabin

Reviews

0.0

5 reviews

Limited 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 5 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 5 reviews

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 5 reviews

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 5 reviews

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 5 reviews

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 5 reviews

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 5 reviews