Developed in partnership with the Chugach National Forest Service, the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop is a remote wilderness area that is only accessible by train. It’s also home to one of the most spectacular and visible glaciers along the Railbelt: Spencer Glacier, a massive wall of ice cascading down the mountains to Spencer Lake.
The station area at the Whistle Stop includes a roofed shelter, restrooms, and the trailhead for a 1.3-mile well-maintained path to the Spencer Glacier overlook on the edge of Spencer Lake. Passengers are free to explore on their own or take advantage of a variety of guided excursions offered at Spencer Glacier before catching the train back to civilization.
For the outdoorsy, overnighting is also an option: the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop offers campsites as well a public use cabin.
Served by: Glacier Discovery Train
Our reservations agents are happy to assist you in booking the below options. Call Alaska Railroad reservations at 800.544.0552.
Spencer Bench Cabin
The Spencer Bench Cabin is the newest cabin on the Chugach National Forest, sitting at an elevation of 1,900’ with breathtaking views of the Placer River valley and Spencer Glacier below.
To book the Spencer Bench Cabin visit Recreation.gov.
Spencer Glacier Campsites
The Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop features two campsites, each with space for multiple tents. Campsites are now reserved through Recreation.gov. Campsites are only accessible by the Glacier Discovery Train. Book tickets on the Glacier Discovery Train.
Campsite A: Campsite A has a capacity for 15 people. A group of people up to 15 reserves the sleeping space at this site, plus use of one bear-proof canister.
Campsite B: Campsite B has a capacity for 10 people. A group of people up to 10 reserves the sleeping space at this site, plus use of one bear-proof canister.
All other facilities at the campsites, including the general group use area, accessible picnic table, and fire ring are shared between both Campsite A and Campsite B. Any one group up to 25 people may reserve the entire site by booking both sites A and B, enabling exclusive use of the campsites and all onsite amenities.
Onsite Amenities:
- Level, compacted gravel sleeping areas
- Restroom facilities
- Bear-proof food storage containers
- Accessible picnic tables
- Fire ring
To reserve a campsite, visit Recreation.gov. To book train tickets, visit Glacier Discovery Train.
Add any of the below excursions to your rail itinerary by calling Alaska Railroad reservations at 800.544.0552.
Ride the Glacier Discovery Train to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, where you’ll disembark to explore this backcountry paradise only accessible by rail. Follow the signs to the trailhead and enjoy a 1.3 mile hike to view the glistening glacier.
Spencer Iceberg & Placer River Float
Experienced guides row you right up to picturesque icebergs and offer stunning views of Spencer Glacier. From there, float the pristine Placer River.
Nowhere else in the world can you: ride a train, sea kayak, hike and explore a glacier all in a day.
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, raft amid glacial icebergs, and enjoy a delicious salmon bake in full view of Spencer Glacier.
