Skaters Cabin

Skaters Cabin is a rustic 1936 Civilian Conservation Corps stone structure sitting on the southwest shore of Mendenhall Lake, offering one of the most dramatic glacier-to-foreground compositions in Alaska. The classic shot frames the cabin itself against the turquoise lake, with Mendenhall Glacier and Thunder Mountain filling the background; a wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range works well to capture all three layers in a single frame. You can also wade to the water's edge and shoot low to include reflections of the glacier on calm mornings. Overcast days soften the light and reduce glare on the lake surface, while clear mornings bring crisp blues and sharp mountain detail. The site is accessible via a short, easy walk from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center parking area, making it a reliable stop in any conditions. Arrive early to avoid crowds on the trail. (Juneau, Alaska, United States)