If you’re planning a trip to Juneau, Alaska, and want to experience some of the most iconic sights in the area without spending an entire day, then this Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching tour might be just the ticket. It offers a compact, half-day adventure that combines the jaw-dropping scenery of one of the state’s most famous glaciers with the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat.
Two things we really like about this tour are the knowledgeable naturalist guides who make the experience both fun and educational, and the stunning, varied landscapes that range from icy glaciers to whale-packed waters. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour has a shorter stop at the glacier—if you’re eager for a longer hike or more time at Nugget Falls, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, this experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Juneau’s wild side without committing to a full-day outing.
This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Alaska’s most famous glacier and its marine life in one go. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a manageable four-hour experience that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.
Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour
“I really enjoyed the tour and the boat tour guide was super knowledgeable”
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary with glacier viewing and whale watching
- Expert naturalist guides enhance understanding and fun
- Shorter glacier stop means less hiking, more sightseeing
- Good value for the price at $151, including transportation and gear
- Spectacular scenery from mountains to icy waters
- Highly rated with a 4.5-star average from 93 reviews
This 4-hour tour begins with a comfortable bus ride from downtown Juneau to the Mendenhall Valley. The journey itself offers a taste of Alaska’s rugged beauty, with views of surrounding mountains and forests. Once at the Mendenhall Glacier, you’ll visit the Visitor Center, where you can get a solid overview of the glacier’s story and significance.
The Glacier: The highlight here is the chance to see one of the most accessible and awe-inspiring glaciers in Alaska. While the tour doesn’t include a hike out to Nugget Falls—a common long walk for serious glacier enthusiasts—it does offer self-guided time at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. This means you can soak in the views, take photos, or just marvel at the icy mass calving into the lake below.
The Boardwalk and Salmon Run: After the glacier, a short stroll along the boardwalk takes you over Steep Creek, where you can watch for spawning salmon—a key part of the local ecosystem. The reviews mention that bears might be lurking nearby, waiting for a fresh catch, which adds an element of wild Alaska drama. The brisk air and the chance to see both bears and salmon in action make this stop memorable.
Whale Watching by Boat: The second half of the tour takes you by boat from Auke Bay Harbor into Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel. Here, you’ll look for humpback whales and other marine life with the aid of binoculars. Your naturalist guide will share insights about whale habits and behaviors, making the experience both fun and informative. Multiple reviews highlight how successful guides are at locating whales—some guests even report seeing up to seven breaches or playful calves.
The Return: After your boat cruise, you’ll enjoy some warm beverages—hot chocolate, coffee, or water—and a small snack to warm up before heading back to downtown Juneau. The entire tour wraps up in about four hours, making it accessible for travelers who want a highlight reel of Alaska’s natural attractions.
At $151 per person, this tour offers a notable value considering the inclusions: roundtrip transportation, a boat trip, use of binoculars, and a self-guided glacier visit. The reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot whales, which adds a lot to the experience.
However, it’s worth noting that this tour does not include a hike to Nugget Falls or extensive glacier exploration, which could be a downside if you’re eager for more physical activity or longer glacier exposure. For those wanting an extra hour at the glacier, there’s an upgraded option for just $10 more.
The tour is designed for small to medium groups, with the bus meeting point clearly indicated outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. The mention of steep ramps and cooler water temperatures suggests that layered clothing, rain gear, and thermal wear are advisable. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchairs, so plan accordingly.
With a 4.5-star average from 93 reviews, this tour is highly regarded. Many visitors praise the friendly guides and spectacular whale sightings, with some noting they saw multiple breaches and playful calves. One guest said, “Our guide was well informed, upbeat, and we saw lots of whales,” which underscores the educational and entertainment value.
Another reviewer loved the combination of glacier and whale watching in one trip, calling it “a great experience,” while others appreciated the calm waters and good weather, which are critical for successful whale sightings. Multiple reviews mention that the boat has ample open viewing areas, allowing excellent sightlines for all passengers.
Some guests wish for more time at the glacier, but overall, the consensus is that the tour delivers great value and memorable moments.
This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a well-rounded, compact Alaska experience. It’s ideal if you enjoy wildlife watching combined with stunning natural scenery and prefer a manageable four-hour outing. It’s also excellent for those who appreciate educational guides and are eager to learn about the environment while sightseeing.
If you’re not keen on hiking long distances or have mobility issues, the shorter glacier stop and focus on boat-based wildlife viewing make this a practical choice. It’s also perfect if your time in Juneau is limited but you want to maximize your chances of seeing whales, bears, and glaciers.
However, if you’re craving more extensive glacier exploration or longer hikes, look into additional tours or longer glacier visits. This trip hits the highlights—just enough to whet your appetite for more of Alaska’s wild landscapes.
Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to meet at the designated location outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat cruise lasts about 2 hours, sailing through Auke Bay and nearby waterways where whales are often spotted.
What should I bring?
Bring a jacket, rain gear, weather-appropriate clothing, and thermal layers because it can be cooler on the water. Layering ensures you stay comfortable regardless of weather.
Can I hike to Nugget Falls during this tour?
No, this tour does not include time for hiking to Nugget Falls. If you want to hike, consider the larger Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour.
Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the terrain and boat.
How many people are typically on this tour?
While the exact group size may vary, the tour is generally set up for small to medium groups, with roundtrip transportation included.
What is the best time to see whales?
While the tour is available year-round, reviews mention successful whale sightings in both spring and summer, with calm water conditions helping visibility.
In closing, this Juneau adventure offers a balanced, engaging look at Alaska’s icy glaciers and majestic whales. It’s particularly worthwhile for those seeking good value, expert guides, and memorable wildlife encounters in a short timeframe. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour captures the essence of Alaska’s wild beauty in one satisfying package.
You can check availability for your dates here:Ready for more marine magic? More whale watching we recommend in Juneau Alaska
