Juneau or Mendenhall Valley: Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip

Exploring the breathtaking beauty of Mendenhall Glacier is a must-do experience for any visitor to Juneau. This guided day trip from the city takes you on a 7-mile hike through the lush Tongass National Forest, where you’ll witness the glacier’s stunning ice formations up close. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Alaska’s wilderness. But the real question is – are you ready to learn about this icy wonderland and uncover its unique secrets?

Key Points

• This 6-hour guided tour from Juneau takes visitors on a 7-mile roundtrip hike through the Tongass National Forest to explore the Mendenhall Glacier.
• The tour offers panoramic views of the glacier’s ice formations, including towering walls of ice and massive crevasses, showcasing the raw power and beauty of the glacier.
• The moderately challenging hike features an elevation gain of 800 feet and passes through lush forests with towering Sitka spruce and hemlock trees.
• Transportation, snacks, and water are provided, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the small group of up to 12 participants.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old or individuals with mobility, heart, or respiratory issues, and participants should be prepared with appropriate hiking gear.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Duration

The guided tour from Juneau to Mendenhall Valley lasts 6 hours, providing visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Tongass National Forest and Mendenhall Glacier.

This small-group excursion, limited to just 12 participants, offers an immersive experience as you hike through the lush forest to the breathtaking glacier.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the glacier’s crevasses and icefalls, all while covering a total distance of 7 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 800 feet.

The knowledgeable guide will share insights and stories, making this an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Hiking the Tongass National Forest

As the tour departs from Juneau, the hike through the Tongass National Forest offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s vibrant and diverse ecosystem. Towering Sitka spruce and hemlock trees line the trail, providing a serene and tranquil environment for visitors to explore.

Trail Features	Details
Distance	7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain	800 feet
Terrain	Moderate with some inclines
Highlights	Panoramic views of Mendenhall Glacier, crevasses, and icefalls
Snacks & Water	Provided during the hike

The diverse landscape and well-maintained trails allow for an enjoyable and informative hike, leading trekkers towards the stunning Mendenhall Glacier.

Highlights of the Glacier and Scenery

Towering walls of ice, sculpted by nature’s forces, captivate visitors as they approach the Mendenhall Glacier. Massive crevasses and awe-inspiring icefalls create a breathtaking panorama, showcasing the raw power and beauty of this natural wonder.

As hikers trek through the Tongass National Forest, they’re treated to stunning vistas of the glacier’s icy expanse, with its vibrant blue hues and dynamic movement.

The guided tour provides an up-close encounter with the glacier’s most impressive features, from the towering ice walls to the intricate patterns carved into the surface.

Whether it’s the majestic views or the sense of adventure, the Mendenhall Glacier day trip offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

From €200.89 per person, the Mendenhall Glacier day trip offers a competitively priced opportunity to explore this natural wonder.

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 15 days in advance, allowing for greater flexibility in planning their Alaskan adventure. This ensures that guests can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

The pricing is inclusive of round-trip transportation, a guided hike, snacks, and water, making it a great value for the experience.

With a small group size limit of 12 participants, the tour provides a more intimate and personalized exploration of the glacier and its stunning surroundings.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Transportation and Snacks Provided

Juneau or Mendenhall Valley: Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip

Transportation and Snacks Provided

The tour includes comfortable, climate-controlled van transportation to and from the trailhead, ensuring a seamless journey to the Mendenhall Glacier.

During the hike, you will be provided with a snack pack and water, keeping them fueled and hydrated as they explore the stunning Tongass National Forest.

The van ride provides a relaxing way to reach the starting point, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through the valley.

Once on the trail, the provided snacks and water make it easy to stay energized throughout the 7-mile roundtrip hike, which features an 800-foot elevation gain.

Requirements and Prohibited Items

Participants must be at least 10 years old and can’t be pregnant or have mobility, heart, or respiratory issues.

Drones, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited on the tour, which operates rain or shine without trekking on the glacier itself.

The tour company recommends wearing comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the hike through the Tongass National Forest can be strenuous. Trekking poles may also be helpful for the 800-foot elevation gain.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for young children or those with physical limitations.

Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers appear to be thoroughly impressed with the Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip, as evidenced by the tour’s impressive 5-star rating based on 2 reviews.

Customers have raved about the amazing experience, with one reviewer describing it as ‘a must-do for anyone visiting Juneau.’

Another traveler highlighted the tour’s small group size, which allowed for a more personalized and intimate experience.

The feedback suggests that the tour caters to a diverse range of adventurers, including couples, groups, and solo travelers.

Suitability for Travelers

The tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including children under 10, pregnant women, those with mobility or heart issues, and people with respiratory problems.

This is due to the moderate difficulty of the 7-mile roundtrip hike through the Tongass National Forest, which involves an elevation gain of 800 feet.

The tour’s activities require a good level of physical fitness and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.

However, the tour is an excellent choice for active adults and older children who can handle the demands of the hike.

Travelers should ensure they’ve the recommended gear, including comfortable shoes and warm clothing, to fully enjoy the stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Hike?

The weather can be variable during the hike, with temperatures ranging from cool to mild. Participants should dress in layers and bring rain gear, as the Tongass National Forest can experience rain or overcast conditions even on otherwise nice days.

Are There Opportunities for Wildlife Sightings on the Tour?

While on the hike, participants may spot wildlife like bears, Bald Eagles, and spawning salmon. The tour guide provides information on the local flora and fauna to enhance the overall experience. However, wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and snacks on the Mendenhall Glacier day trip. While the tour provides a snack pack, bringing additional provisions allows hikers to customize their experience and fuel up as needed during the 7-mile roundtrip trek.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old. The strenuous hike and exposure to cold temperatures make it inappropriate for younger participants. However, the tour welcomes adults and older children who meet the physical requirements.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Hike?

The tour doesn’t have any additional fees or costs during the hike. The price includes transportation, a snack pack, and water. Participants should bring their own personal gear and items they may need on the hike.

Recap

The Mendenhall Glacier day trip from Juneau is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Exploring the stunning glacier’s ice formations and crevasses, while hiking through the Tongass National Forest, provides an immersive experience in Alaska’s wilderness.

With a knowledgeable guide, small group size, and included transportation and snacks, this 6-hour tour is a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the breathtaking beauty of Mendenhall Glacier.

You can check if your dates are available here: