Laughton Glacier Cabin
Laughton Glacier Cabin is located 2 miles west of the Canadian border on the north side of the Sawtooth Mountains. The site can be accessed by train, followed by a 1.5-mile hike. The White Pass and Yukon Railroad operates from May 1 to September 30. The cabin is closed to reservations in the off-season, since the surrounding area is owned by the railroad. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety and must bring several of their own amenities.
This 12 ft. by 14ft. cabin is pan-abode style and sleeps six people with two single and two double bunks. The cabin also has a table and benches, a broom, oil heater and an outhouse. A wooden cooler box for food storage is attached to the outside of the cabin and a fire ring is located out front. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from the Skagway River, but visitors should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety tips ). It is recommended that visitors bring their own water supply. Heating oil is not supplied by the Forest Service. Visitors must provide their own #1 stove oil (one gallon lasts a day on the lowest heat setting), in addition to sleeping bags, sleeping pads, a cooking stove, lanterns or flashlights, cookware, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter. Visitors are expected to pack out trash, empty the cabinets and clean the cabin before leaving ( click here for more cabin details).
Need to Know
- This facility is located in an extremely remote and wild area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water, and weather safety (including cold)
- Recreating in Alaska can present both obvious and hidden dangers; please be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to occasionally poor weather
- Water is not available at the cabin; guests must bring their own water supply or treat water from natural sources
- Please pack out all trash and food
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- Cabin cannot be reserved when the railroad is not operating
- Heavy snows in winter with high avalanche danger on railroad tracks and hiking trail
- Click here for more information about Tongass National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The area around the cabin is mountainous and covered with spruce and subalpine fir forest. Wildflowers bloom around the cabin in summer. The cabin overlooks the Skagway River and the Laughton Glacier is located nearby. Moose, brown bears and black bears are common in this area ( bear safety information ). Mountain goats can sometimes be spotted on the surrounding mountains.
Recreation
The access trail to the cabin follows the Skagway River and leads hikers through lush rainforest. The trail continues beyond the cabin along the rocky banks of Laughton Creek to Laughton Glacier. The total distance for this trail is three miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 200-600 feet. Mountain goat and bear hunting is possible in designated seasons with the proper permits.
Contact Information
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Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road JUNEAU AK 99801
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Access 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.
