Description
Tour Update: This tour does not include trekking on the glacier. We will arrive at panoramic views of the glacier with distant views of the crevasses and icefall at the toe of the glacier.
Explore Mendenhall Glacier from a much closer perspective on the Mendenhall Glacier Hike Tour. This full-day adventure is not for everyone, but geared towards those looking for a challenge and ready to hike to get there. Gaining elevation from the trailhead, temperate rainforest eventually gives way to alpine terrain. Spend the next hour or so enjoying the panoramic views of the glacier, following your guide past deep blue melt streams, emerald pools and deep crevasses that can be seen from the glaciers edge. The scale of these flowing glaciers becomes evident as you zig-zag along in what may feel like a different world. A truly awe-inspiring trip for those ready for it.
Pick-up from the cruise docks and many Juneau hotels is included and from there a short ride over to Mendenhall Valley and the West Glacier Trailhead. Here it's time to gear up, and a backpack containing all your necessary glacier gear is provided for you (about 10-15 lbs.). Hit the trail, warming up on the first mile which is well maintained and relatively flat. It doesn't take long to shift gears - now you're in the Alaskan backcountry, and the cruise ship seems miles away. After the first mile, the trail gains elevation and the next 2.5 miles are characterized by uneven terrain, multiple steep pitches, rock scrambling, route finding and may include slippery bedrock. But the hard work pays off when the trail opens up to expose a glorious view of Mendenhall Glacier.
Traverse across the last patch of bedrock, making your way over to incredible views of the icefield. The resulting photos from this trip may seem photoshopped but these colors are real! Eventually, we'll make the return trip back to the trailhead and drop-off locations in Juneau.
If you're concerned with slowing down the group or if you have younger children, you may consider taking this as a private trip. Or, for less hiking, consider the Mendenhall Glacier Paddle & Hike.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the tour still operate if it's raining?
What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?
What can I do to prepare physically for this trip?
What about restroom facilities along the way?
How many guests are on this tour?
Will we see/explore ice caves?
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 6h 00min • 5 activities
Your guides will pick you up at Mount Roberts Tramway, right by the cruise docks, or at several local hotels, to transport you to the trailhead for outfitting.
Hike about 3.5 miles under soaring glacially carved peaks and alongside Mendenhall Lake as you journey towards the receding glacier.
Enjoy the views of the Mendenhall Glacier with time for plenty of photos and snacks.
You'll return on the same trail you took to reach the glacier, while your guide continues to educate you about the local flora, fauna, and geography.
After returning your gear, your guides will return you to your hotel or Mount Roberts Tramway, where you can check out downtown or hop back on your cruise ship.