The best guided tours in Juneau cut straight to Alaska’s raw natural beauty. I’m especially impressed by three standout experiences: The helicopter-glacier combo tours offer unmatched aerial views and up-close glacier exploration – worth every penny for the unique perspective. The whale watching excursions consistently deliver, putting you face-to-face with humpbacks and orcas in their natural habitat. And the Mendenhall Glacier hikes, led by seasoned local guides, showcase the remarkable temperate rainforest while building in plenty of photo stops and wildlife viewing. Let’s examine our favorite Juneau guided tours.
Key Points
- Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk with 94% traveler recommendation, offering a scenic round-trip flight and an educational glacier hike.
- Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise that provides opportunities to see various marine life and is highly rated at 4.7/5.
- Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike, a 7-mile trek through a rainforest with a 98% recommendation rate and personalized attention in small groups.
- Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike as a shore excursion, covering about 8 miles and requiring good physical condition.
- Private Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike, a full-day 9-mile hike for those seeking a more intimate exploration experience.
Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk
Although a helicopter tour and guided icefield walk may seem like a thrilling excursion, this Juneau Shore Excursion offers an adventure-filled experience that showcases the Alaskan wilderness.
With 490 reviews and 94% traveler recommendation, the tour includes a round-trip helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield and a guided walk on the Herbert Glacier.
Passengers can learn about the region’s natural wonders and capture memorable photos during the icefield walk. The tour is ADA accessible, though weight restrictions apply.
Pickup is provided from the cruise terminal or a central location, and a safety briefing is given before boarding. Travelers should dress warmly and note any medical carry-ons at booking.
While subject to weather, cancellations allow for alternative times or refunds.
Positive reviews highlight the stunning views, knowledgeable pilots, and overall organization, making this a “once in a lifetime” experience worth the cost.
Read our full review: Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk Review
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Juneau: Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise With Local Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience in Juneau can embark on a thrilling whale watching and wildlife cruise. Priced from Kč 4,242 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes guests on a scenic ocean cruise to witness whales in their natural habitat.
The comfortable boat features heated interiors, multiple viewing decks, and restrooms, allowing passengers to comfortably observe a variety of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and eagles. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local flora and fauna.
The tour begins at the downtown Juneau cruise ship terminal, with a shuttle available for cruise passengers. After a safety briefing, the boat sets out to search for whales and other wildlife, with the opportunity to enjoy snacks and drinks onboard.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 133 reviews, this whale watching excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Juneau.
Read our full review: Juneau: Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise With Local Guide Review
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Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
For those seeking a thrilling glacier adventure in Juneau, the Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike offers a panoramic journey through the breathtaking Tongass National Forest.
This guided hike covers around 7 miles over 6 hours, suitable for most ages and abilities as long as participants are in good physical shape.
The trek includes a 3.5-mile trail through the world’s largest temperate rainforest, leading to stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding peaks.
Guides provide all necessary gear, snacks, and water, as well as expert knowledge to navigate the challenging terrain. Groups are kept small, with a maximum of 12 travelers.
While the hike doesn’t involve trekking on the glacier itself, it provides a memorable experience for those wishing to witness the majestic Mendenhall Glacier up close.
With a 98% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this guided tour is a must-do activity for adventurous visitors to Juneau.
Read our full review: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike Review
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Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
Embarking on the Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike, adventurous travelers can explore the breathtaking Tongass National Forest and witness the majestic Mendenhall Glacier up close.
The half-day adventure covers approximately 8 miles round-trip, lasting 6 to 6.5 hours. Suitable for physically fit individuals, the hike requires good balance and sure-footedness, with sturdy hiking boots essential for the uneven terrain.
Led by experienced guides, the small group size ensures personalized attention as they provide insights into the landscape, wildlife, and plant life.
Participants can enjoy a hearty snack and bottled water while taking in the stunning views of the glacier, icefalls, and Nugget Falls. The tour includes necessary equipment and rain gear, making it a well-rounded experience.
Not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, the hike is an ideal way to take in the natural beauty of Juneau’s Tongass National Forest and witness the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier.
Read our full review: Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike Review
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Juneau Shore Excursion: Private Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
Venturing on the private Mendenhall Glacier guided hike in Juneau allows adventurous travelers to enjoy the breathtaking Tongass National Forest and witness the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier up close.
Led by a professional private guide, the hike offers panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding mountain peaks. Explorers will journey through lush wilderness, beaver ponds, and rocky scrambles, while enjoying a hearty snack and bottled water.
Participants must disclose any medical conditions and wear sturdy hiking boots, as the 9-mile roundtrip hike requires strong physical fitness. The activity, which includes forest service permits and gratuities, isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
While guests can’t trek on the glacier itself, they’ll have the opportunity to explore its edges and witness its ever-changing features. The private guided hike is an ideal way to experience Juneau’s natural beauty firsthand.
Read our full review: Juneau Shore Excursion: Private Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike Review
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Private Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
The private Mendenhall Glacier guided hike takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey through the Tongass National Forest to witness the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier.
This full-day excursion includes round-trip transport from a centralized meeting point and expert guidance from a private professional. Hikers will explore rainforest trails around Mendenhall Lake before reaching the glacier itself, where they’ll enjoy a snack stop to admire the icy landscape.
The tour provides all necessary glacier gear, including a backpack, rain jacket, and pants. Participants must disclose any medical conditions and sign a liability waiver prior to the hike.
Strong physical fitness is required, as the 9-mile roundtrip trek covers about 6-6.5 hours of hiking. The experience isn’t suitable for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
With a maximum of 12 participants and a minimum of 2, this private tour ensures an intimate and personalized exploration of Mendenhall Glacier.
Read our full review: Private Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike Review
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The Sum Up
Juneau offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. From helicopter tours over glaciers to wildlife cruises and guided hikes, there are options to suit all interests and activity levels. Visitors can choose from shore excursions or private tours to have a personalized experience in this picturesque Alaskan destination.