Spencer Bench Trail

The feel

You reach this trail by train. The Glacier Discovery Train drops you at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, and from there you walk 2.4 miles along the Spencer Glacier Trail to the start of the Spencer Bench Trail. Then comes the crux: 3 miles of switchbacks climbing about 1,800 feet to a footbridge, with the Spencer Bench Cabin about 300 feet beyond.

At the top, alpine meadows with wildflowers sit just above the cabin. Brown and black bears, wolves, moose, mountain goats and marmots are all possible near the cabin.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, a hard climb. 2.4 miles on the Spencer Glacier Trail, then 3 miles of switchbacks gaining about 1,800 feet to the footbridge below Spencer Bench Cabin, at 1900 ft.

Time

About 5.5 hours; allow 2 to 5 hours one way from the Whistle Stop.

Parking

Visitors often park and catch the train at the Portage Depot near the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Parking is available at Alaska Railroad train depots.

Fees and passes

Train tickets are bought from the Alaska Railroad; cabin stays are booked through Recreation.gov.

Hazards

The trail crosses avalanche paths and can be buried under deep snow. The area is prone to blizzards and high winds. Bears and other wildlife live near the cabin.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms at the Whistle Stop station; a separate outhouse at the cabin. A nearby creek is the water source and must be boiled or treated before drinking.

Season and access

The Glacier Discovery Train serves the Whistle Stop daily from late May through mid September. The trail is usually, but not always, snow-free by mid-June. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trails.

Mingo says

Plan for the window from mid-June through mid September, once the snow is off the switchbacks and the train is running. Storms can stretch a trip, so pack extra food and fuel.

Before you go

• Book Glacier Discovery Train tickets with the Alaska Railroad at 800.544.0552.
• Reserve the cabin through Recreation.gov, up to 180 days ahead; check-in is 12 p.m.
• Pack enough extra supplies to last 2 to 5 days in case of bad weather.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.