🏆🏆🏆🏆 Historic Taku Harbor — 1890s gold rush harbor with restored cabin and Taku Glacier views
Taku Harbor State Marine Park preserves a historic harbor on the east shore of Stephens Passage near Juneau, with a restored 1890s-era prospector’s cabin and views of the massive Taku Glacier across the passage. The harbor was used by Tlingit people for centuries and later became a waystation for gold prospectors heading to interior Alaska. The park features a public-use cabin, float, and trail through old-growth rainforest. Humpback whales, harbor seals hauled on Taku Glacier icebergs, and Steller sea lions frequent the passage.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Stephens Passage, near Juneau, AK |
| Access | Boat from Juneau (25 miles south) |
| Entry Fee | Free (cabin by reservation) |
| History | 1890s gold rush way station |
| Glacier | Taku Glacier views across passage |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay in the cabin?
Yes — the public-use cabin is available by reservation through Alaska State Parks. The cabin provides a roof and bunks but no utilities. Bring sleeping bags, stove, and supplies.
Is the Taku Glacier advancing or retreating?
The Taku Glacier was one of the few advancing glaciers in Southeast Alaska for decades, but recent measurements show it has begun retreating. It remains one of the thickest glaciers in the world at 4,800+ feet thick.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Oliver Inlet State Marine Park is a short drive away, and Wickersham State Historic Site is within about an hour’s drive.
🏚️ Visit Taku Harbor SMP
Gold rush harbor — 1890s cabin, Taku Glacier views, and whales near Juneau.
About Taku Harbor
Taku Harbor State Marine Park south of Juneau protects a historic harbor on Stephens Passage — once a busy stop for steamships traveling the Inside Passage. The harbor includes ruins of a former cannery and a ranger station. Taku Glacier — one of the few advancing glaciers in North America — lies up the Taku River nearby. The harbor is a favorite anchorage for Juneau boaters.
Things to Do
Boater anchorage in the historic harbor, exploring the old cannery ruins, camping, whale watching in Stephens Passage, bear viewing, fishing, and visiting by kayak from Juneau.
Insider Tips
Historical harbor: Taku Harbor was a steamship stop in the early 1900s — remnants of the dock and a small cemetery remain. Pro tip: The harbor is 28 miles south of Juneau by boat — a popular overnight kayak trip. Wildlife: Taku Inlet is one of the best places to see harbor seals hauled out on ice — the Taku Glacier calves icebergs that seals use as resting platforms.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Best boating conditions. July: Peak seal and whale activity. May: Ice from Taku Glacier fills the inlet. Fall: Quiet and atmospheric.
Park Location
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