Juneau, Alaska, stands out as a premier destination for hiking and trekking thanks to its stunning landscapes and proximity to the Mendenhall Glacier. Unlike many other destinations, Juneau offers a chance to explore America’s largest temperate rainforest and get up close to a glacier that’s continuously changing.
Personally, I love the idea of walking through lush forest trails and then taking in breathtaking views of ice and mountain.
The Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike is a perfect example of a straightforward, scenic trek that combines natural beauty with educational insights.
If you’re up for a more adventurous experience, the Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike offers a unique opportunity to paddle across a glacial lake and then hike up close to the glacier’s edge. Both tours showcase Juneau’s outdoor appeal but cater to different interests—whether you want a peaceful forest walk or an active water-based adventure.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover two top-rated hiking and trekking tours in Juneau. The first is a scenic guided trail hike through the Tongass National Forest to view the Mendenhall Glacier (details here) — perfect for those who value a peaceful walk with panoramic views.
The second is a more immersive canoe and hike combo that takes you across a glacial lake to the glacier’s edge (details here) — ideal for travelers seeking a hands-on, up-close glacier experience.
1. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike
For around $233, this 6-hour guided trail hike offers an authentic journey through the Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest. The tour begins in Juneau and takes you on well-maintained trails to reveal panoramic views of the Mendenhall Glacier.
The guides are knowledgeable about the ice age wilderness of the glacier, sharing insights into how this icy giant has changed over time.
What makes this hike stand out is its balance of nature, education, and physical activity. You’ll pass towering trees, moss-laden branches, and possibly spot local wildlife, all while soaking in the dramatic glacier backdrop. The included water and snack pack keep your energy up as you explore.
This tour is suited for those who want a moderate walk with plenty of scenic vistas, without the worry of navigating challenging terrain alone.
While some may find it a bit leisurely, the quality of the views and expert guidance makes it worth the price. It’s perfect if you seek a straightforward, immersive outdoor experience without the complexity of outdoor gear or longer treks.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for travelers who want a guided, scenic walk in the forest to see the glacier from afar, with plenty of learning and photo opportunities.
2. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike
Costing around $377, this 5.5-hour tour combines the thrill of paddling across a glacial lake with a scenic hike to the glacier’s edge. Once you’re on the water, you’ll experience the exhilaration of paddling and the chance to get up close to the glacier in a way that only water access allows. The guides lead you across the lake, sharing insights about glacial geology and local natural history.
What makes this tour particularly special is the chance to see the glacier from the lake and observe the changing features along the ice face. The tour also offers fantastic views of mountains and the glacier, along with the chance to witness the mystical mist rising from Nugget Waterfall.
After paddling, you’ll hike toward the glacier’s edge, where you can see calving ice and learn about ongoing glacial processes.
Guests have noted the “magical experience” of paddling to the glacier and the beautiful mountain scenery. This tour is best suited for active travelers who aren’t afraid of a little water and want to combine adventure with education. While it’s more expensive, the up-close glacier experience provides excellent value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an active, hands-on glacier encounter, combining paddling, hiking, and natural scenery in one memorable outing.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between the two, consider your fitness level, interests, and how close you want to get to the glacier. If you prefer a relaxed walk through the forest with stunning glacier views, the Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike offers a straightforward, educational experience.
For those craving a more adventurous, immersive experience, the Canoe Paddle and Hike provides the excitement of paddling and the thrill of seeing the glacier up close.
Budget-wise, the trail hike offers a solid value for its price, especially with the included snacks. If you’re looking for a unique water-based adventure and don’t mind spending a bit more, the canoe and hike combo is hard to beat. Remember, booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months.
Final Thoughts
Juneau’s outdoor options are plentiful, but these two tours highlight some of the best ways to experience its stunning glaciers and lush forests. For a peaceful, scenic walk with plenty of learning, the Trail Hike is ideal. If you want a more active, engaging experience that brings you closer to the glacier itself, the Canoe and Hike combo offers that thrill.
Both tours suit different traveler styles — whether you prefer a gentle walk or an adventurous paddle. Whichever you choose, Juneau’s wild beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to book early, pack layers, and bring your camera — these views are worth capturing.