4.7 / 5Unveiling the Majesty of Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska
See the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska, with Shore Excursions Group. Witness the mesmerizing beauty of a glacier formed over 3,000 years ago, guided by experts who delve into the mysteries of the last ice age. Explore Juneau’s historic downtown, savor local cuisine, and embrace an authentic Alaska adventure with us — where quality meets affordability for an unforgettable experience!
Welcome to Juneau!
Juneau, Alaska, the state’s capital, is a fascinating blend of urban life surrounded by pristine wilderness. Accessible only by air or water, the city is nestled in the heart of the stunning Inside Passage. A must-see destination in Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier, a colossal river of ice flowing from the Juneau Icefield to Mendenhall Lake.
The glacier, with its ever-changing dynamics and vibrant blue hues, is an incredible symbol of nature’s raw power. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides an educational experience, offering insights into glacial processes and the surrounding ecosystem. Beyond being a static sight, the glacier offers interactive activities like hiking and kayaking, making it a vital part of the Alaskan encounter.
The Geological Marvel: Mendenhall Glacier
It is hard to describe the enormity of the glacier and its beauty.”
Ron B.
The Mendenhall Glacier is nestled within the Juneau Icefield, a sprawling expanse of ice covering approximately 1,500 square miles in southeastern Alaska. The origins of the Mendenhall Glacier can be traced back about 3,000 years ago to the last Little Ice Age, when the glacier began its slow journey, carving through the rugged terrain of the coastal mountains.
As with all glaciers, the Mendenhall Glacier was formed by the accumulation of large amounts of snowfall over centuries, which transformed into ice under the weight of subsequent layers. As the ice continued to build up, it flowed downhill, molding the valleys and fjords it encountered — the result of the ever-changing dynamics of Earth’s climate and geological processes.
Positioned within the vast expanse of the Juneau Icefield, the Mendenhall Glacier is part of a network of more than 100 interconnected glaciers located within the Tongass National Forest. It is a living entity, constantly in motion, with ice slowly flowing from its accumulation zone high in the mountains to its terminus at Mendenhall Lake.
This glacier, with its radiant blue ice and crevasses, is a wonderful glimpse into the Earth’s ancient past and an example of the ongoing processes that shape our planet. Sadly, this magnificent glacier has been in retreat since 1929, withdrawing 1.75 miles from the lake.
No matter where one stands regarding the state of our climate, recent warming trends do not bode well for the glacier’s future — its surface is thinning, and its terminus is close to retreating from the lake. Scientists at the University of Alaska Southeast speculate that the glacier’s face might retreat out of the lake within the next few years, and no longer be visible from the Visitor’s Center within the next few decades.
What does all this mean for you? If you want to witness this breathtaking glacier in person, don’t delay — the sooner, the better.
Shore Excursions Group: Your Gateway to Mendenhall Glacier
To explore Mendenhall Glacier on your own, you can head to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. This center provides information, exhibits, and glacier viewing platforms. However, for more adventurous activities away from the center like hiking or paddling near the glacier itself, it’s recommended to join guided tours with experienced guides, as glacier environments can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
As the leading tour provider in Alaska, Shore Excursions Group ensures you take center stage at this riveting glacier as well as on other exhilarating adventures. Our meticulously designed excursions are dedicated to delivering unforgettable moments and fostering a profound appreciation for Alaska’s bewitching beauty and rich heritage.
Explore Juneau’s main attraction through our exclusive Mendenhall Glacier tours, offering diverse ways to witness this natural marvel and providing some of the most exceptional glacier experiences.
Ways to Experience Mendenhall Glacier
Just 13 miles outside the Port of Juneau lies the iconic Mendenhall Glacier. The atmosphere at this place is one of tranquility and elegance, evoking a deep connection with nature. As you absorb the alluring scenery, there’s a palpable sense of humility and appreciation for the sheer scale and beauty of the glacier.
The crisp mountain air, the distant rumble of ice shifting, and the sight of the nearby waterfall contribute to a sensory-rich journey that combines the thrill of discovery with a deep admiration for the natural wonders of this Alaskan gem.
Visitor’s Center
The Mendenhall Glacier’s Visitor Center serves as the entrance to the majestic Mendenhall Glacier. As you approach, the glacier’s icy expanse comes into view, creating a jaw-dropping overview.
The visitor center itself offers a wealth of information through interactive exhibits, films, and knowledgeable park rangers, providing a deeper understanding of glaciology, local flora and fauna, and the glacier’s historical significance. The observation deck gives you a front-row seat to the glacier, allowing you to witness ice calving events and marvel at the surrounding mountains and pristine wilderness.
Get Up Close
Set out on a hike along one of the area’s many well-marked trails that guide you through lush forests, providing an up-close encounter with the glacier’s striking blue hues, complemented by the dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains.
Along the way, you will also see the vibrant flora and fauna indigenous to the area — and on Steep Creek Trail, you will have opportunities to view salmon and bear from the trail’s elevated boardwalk.
The beautiful Photo Point Trail provides a perfect spot to capture Insta-worthy photos of the Mendenhall Glacier as well as the icebergs drifting atop Mendenhall Lake. The Nugget Falls Trail is where you will encounter — you guessed it — Nugget Falls, a 377-ft, two-drop waterfall emptying into the lake. Here, you can walk out onto the nearby sand and gravel flat near its base, and be treated to the falls’ thunderous roar.
Get Up Even Closer
Advanced hikers will jump at the chance to take a challenging, 4-mile uphill trek to get a private perspective of the glacier. At the final ridge you will be greeted by the glacier’s face, along with the river of ice following behind it. Although it is no longer safe to walk on the glacier due to rapidly changing conditions, you will get close enough to witness glacial phenomena such as streams and crevices, depending on the ice conditions of the day.
Paddling up to Nugget Falls in a stable kayak is a surreal and awe-inspiring venture. The crisp air is filled with the distinct scent of ancient ice, while the occasional groans of the glacier remind you of its constant movement. Glide across the calm waters, the massive ice wall looming ever closer, and marvel at the glacier’s face from a safe distance. This is one of the best ways to see Mendenhall Glacier!
As you explore Mendenhall Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to witness a wide range of Alaskan wildlife, including bald eagles, herons, otters, porpoises, and various waterfowl. With some luck, you may even catch a glimpse of a magnificent Humpback whale. Your expert guide will share insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as intriguing facts about the glacier and surrounding area.
Juneau: Beyond the Glacier
Not only did we see most of Juneau, we had plenty of time to visit the Alaska Museum, view (from a distance) Mendenhall Glacier, and walk the rainforest area, Glacier Garden… We ate the best rockfish tacos ever before strolling the streets of downtown Juneau. We highly recommend this tour!
Buck A.
Immerse yourself in charming Juneau with a guided tour for a first-hand look at the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s capital city. Elevate your experience with thrilling activities like the pursuit of gold through river panning, or feel the rush of Arctic winds as you embark on an unforgettable dog sledding adventure. Seize the opportunity to make the most of your time in this extraordinary destination.
City Tours
City tours, guided by knowledgeable locals offer visitors a great orientation, with insider tips for exploring the city further on your own.
Traverse Juneau’s historic downtown district, your senses heightened by the scent of fresh seafood emanating from king crab shacks and inviting fish restaurants. The air is filled with a palpable energy as you explore the bustling local markets offering an array of Alaskan crafts, jewelry, and authentic souvenirs.
Pass by the iconic Red Dog Saloon, a historic establishment that beckons you with its rustic charm and lively ambiance. Those entering the saloon are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by live music and the memorabilia adorning the walls.
Over at the Alaska State Museum you’ll encounter a wide array of exhibits that showcase the state’s unique blend of Native Alaskan traditions, Russian influences, and the pioneering spirit of early settlers. Marvel at exquisite artifacts, traditional art, and multimedia presentations that bring to life the stories of Alaska’s First Nations. The museum also features excellent exhibits highlighting the state’s wildlife.
Get a glimpse into the salmon industry at the Macaulay Hatchery. Here, you can witness the life cycle of salmon, from eggs to mature fish, while gaining insight into the vital role hatcheries play in sustaining Alaska’s rich ecosystem. Depending on the time of year, you might also see salmon ascending the ladder.
Dog Sledding and Helicopter Tour
Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of a Juneau helicopter dog sledding excursion. Witness the unparalleled beauty of Alaska’s winter wilderness and take part in the tradition of cruising over ice on a dog-powered sled.
Your skilled helicopter pilot will guide you over colossal ice fields revealing deep blue crevasses and luminous ice rivers, offering unforgettable vistas. Upon landing, you become a participant in Alaska’s beloved pastime: dog sledding. The sled dogs, puppies, and camp staff warmly welcome you, giving expert training and insights into dog sledding techniques and the renowned Iditarod race. The excitement builds as you board a dog sled manned by a team of energetic huskies that will pull you through the crisp Alaskan snow. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime escapade of pure exhilaration.
Gold Panning
Time-jump into Juneau’s gold rush era with a trip to the authentic setting of Gold Creek. Join a costumed prospector for a guided tour to Last Chance Basin, retracing the footsteps of pioneers Joe Juneau and Richard Harris.
This is your opportunity to engage in hands-on gold panning near the historic Alaska-Juneau gold mine, which was once one of the world’s largest. Learn about historic mining techniques and Alaska’s gold-seeking legacy, and gain a deep appreciation for the challenges faced by fortune seekers in Alaska’s wild frontier over a century ago. Whether you choose to pan standing in Gold Creek or at a demonstration trough, your efforts will be rewarded with genuine gold finds and a souvenir Orelove Brothers Gold Claim Certificate, all yours to keep.
Unforgettable Experiences at Lower Rates
Shore Excursions Group is all about giving you a genuine Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau experience. We offer better quality at lower rates compared to regular cruise line options, 24/7 customer support, and guaranteed return to ship — making your adventure both top-notch and affordable.
People who have tried our excursions have great things to say, sharing their positive experiences and highlighting the amazing value that we bring to the table. With a stellar 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 41,300 global reviews, we stand out as a reliable and smart choice for cruisers in search of a cost-effective and unforgettable experience.
Making Every Moment Count in Alaska
From witnessing majestic glaciers to wilderness dog sledding, Shore Excursions Group is your gateway to unlocking the true essence of Alaska. Immerse yourself in the wildlife, cultural heritage, and enchanting vistas that make Alaska a destination like no other.
Get in touch with us today to organize your travel adventure with our premium excursions that reveal the hidden treasures of the Last Frontier. Make the most of your Alaska adventure with us!