OutReserve

John Muir Cabin

View from John Muir Cabin
Front of Cabin
John Muir Cabin from above
Cabin interior
Muskeg behind the cabin

About John Muir Cabin

John Muir Cabin was built in 1980 and named after John Muir to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his visit to the Gastineau Channel area. This rustic cabin is open year-round and offers spectacular views and plenty of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The cabin is accessed by hiking, snowshoeing or skiing 3.5 miles from the Spaulding Meadows/Auk Nu trailhead off of Glacier Highway. The trail is partially planked and winds through muskeg with a 1,500-foot elevation gain. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety and must bring several of their own amenities.

Number of accommodations: 1

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
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Jul
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Open year round

This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.

365 Days

J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

Price not available
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 8 guests
Campfire
View Site Details

Reviews (51)

What Guests Are Saying

The John Muir Cabin offers a wonderful winter experience with beautiful snowy landscapes and quick heating for its size. While the last mile requires snowshoes and the cabin may be cold upon arrival, guests appreciate its well-maintained condition and cozy woodstove. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the overall experience for visitors exploring outdoor activities.

Review Summary

4.8
51 reviews
5
80.4%
41
4
19.6%
10
3
0.0%
0
2
0.0%
0
1
0.0%
0

Anna A

Verified

April 19, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

Cabin was wonderful, despite the thigh-deep snow in April.

Anna A

Verified

April 19, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

Cabin was wonderful, despite the thigh-deep snow in April.

marsha s

Verified

March 4, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

4

Beautiful winter wonderland

marsha s

Verified

March 4, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

4

Beautiful winter wonderland

katie h

Verified

March 2, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

The cabin is in great shape and heats up surprisingly quickly for how large it is on a ten degree evening. A wonderful snowy weekend in the mountains. Thanks USFS for providing us with such amazing opportunity to be outside and be warm!

katie h

Verified

March 2, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

The cabin is in great shape and heats up surprisingly quickly for how large it is on a ten degree evening. A wonderful snowy weekend in the mountains. Thanks USFS for providing us with such amazing opportunity to be outside and be warm!

Stephen S

Verified

February 26, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

4

Love this cabin in the winter. Beautiful snowy landscape and views. Snow was deep the last mile up to the cabin. Definitely needed snowshoes. Cabin was very cold when we arrived and heater was extremely slow to warm up the lower level of the cabin (kept the upstairs sealed off). Wasn't until about mid-night that we were finally peeling layers off. Outhouse path cleared and easily accessible.

Stephen S

Verified

February 26, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

4

Love this cabin in the winter. Beautiful snowy landscape and views. Snow was deep the last mile up to the cabin. Definitely needed snowshoes. Cabin was very cold when we arrived and heater was extremely slow to warm up the lower level of the cabin (kept the upstairs sealed off). Wasn't until about mid-night that we were finally peeling layers off. Outhouse path cleared and easily accessible.

Kevin P

Verified

January 28, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

One of my favorite cabins in the area. Really enjoy having the woodstove!

Kevin P

Verified

January 28, 2026 Stayed at: J04, Loop: AREA JOHN MUIR CABIN

5

One of my favorite cabins in the area. Really enjoy having the woodstove!

Location John Muir Cabin

Address:
Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Juneau, AK, 99801
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 58.4094 / -134.697

Elevation: 463 feet

Policies & Rules

General

  • 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
  • This cabin is open to public as a warming shelter.
  • 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.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: June 5, 2026

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Managed by USDA Forest Service