Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour

Imagine kayaking past floating icebergs, hiking close to a shimmering glacier, and spotting bald eagles soaring overhead—all wrapped in stunning Alaskan wilderness. That’s what the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour promises, and from the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this experience truly delivers.

For travelers craving a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance, this tour offers a balanced, authentic taste of Alaska’s wild side.

What we love most: First, the chance to paddle across Mendenhall Lake and get up close to the icebergs and waterfalls. Second, the expert guides who share fascinating insights about the glacier and surrounding nature at every step. The potential downside? It requires a decent level of physical activity and some preparation for the weather, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.

Perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are in good shape, and want an immersive experience beyond the typical sightseeing bus tour.

This tour suits active travelers looking for a meaningful encounter with nature, families with older kids (minimum age 12), and anyone eager to explore Alaska’s wilderness with knowledgeable guides. It’s a full, 5-hour adventure that combines paddling, hiking, and wildlife spotting, making it a worthwhile investment for a truly memorable day in Juneau.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and wildlife: Expect breathtaking views of the glacier, waterfalls, and abundant eagle sightings.
• Active adventure: Kayaking and hiking mean it’s best for those comfortable with physical activity and uneven terrain.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to make everyone feel safe and entertained.
• All-inclusive gear and transport: Everything you need—rain gear, life vests, waterproof boots—is provided, and transport from downtown Juneau makes logistics simple.
• Flexible and dynamic: Every trip is unique, thanks to the ever-changing ice and weather conditions.
• Good value: At $359, it packs a lot into one memorable day, with reviews highlighting the quality of the guides and scenery.

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins conveniently at Goldbelt Tram, 490 S Franklin St in downtown Juneau. From there, the transportation is handled, whisking you to the departure point without hassle. This setup is a real plus—no need to rent a car or worry about getting lost, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

The Kayak across Mendenhall Lake

Upon arrival, you’ll kit up with waterproof gear, life vests, helmets, and trekking poles. The guides are praised repeatedly for their thoroughness and friendliness—something you’ll appreciate after a short safety briefing. Paddling about an hour each way, you’ll glide past icebergs and waterfalls, with the mountain peaks of the Tongass National Forest framing the background.

Several reviews emphasize the serene beauty of this part of the trip. One guest even noted, “The scenery was breathtaking, and we saw two bald eagles flying low above us,” capturing the wildlife-rich environment you can expect. The paddle isn’t just a workout; it’s a chance to see nature from a quiet, intimate perspective that’s hard to match from a bus window.

Hiking near Mendenhall Glacier

After the paddle, the adventure continues on land with a remote interpretive hike toward the glacier. The guides lead the way through rocky moraine and near ice caves and moulins—natural features created by glacial movement. The approximately 1-2 mile trek over uneven terrain offers close-up views of the glacier, which is constantly changing, making each trip unique.

Reviews highlight the guides’ ability to blend education and entertainment, with one guest praising guides Molly and Sheila for their “fun yet informative” narration. As some reviews mention, walking on the rocks and terrain can be steep and uneven, so good mobility and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

Exploring Glacial Features

While the tour doesn’t include walking on the glacier ice itself, it does provide close-up encounters with the glacier’s front and nearby waterfalls. Some reviews mention ice caves and moulins seen during hikes, which add an extra layer of wonder to your experience. Keep in mind, the glacier is receding over time, so the views today might differ from a few years ago, but that dynamism is part of the thrill.

Wildlife and Waterfalls

Throughout the trip, you’ll find ample opportunities to spot bald eagles, waterfalls, and mountain wildlife. Guides are praised for their storytelling and for helping guests understand the local ecosystem. Some guests even commented on the beauty of Nugget Falls, which can be seen from close proximity during the hike.

The End of the Day

The tour wraps up right back where it started, with transportation included. The timing allows for a relaxed, comprehensive experience without feeling rushed—most reviews agree it strikes a perfect balance of activity and sightseeing.

Price and Value

At $359 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering the inclusions—gear, transportation, expert guides, snacks, and water. The reviews repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and the quality of equipment, which enhances the overall experience. For those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, the physical effort involved, and the chance to get close to nature, this tour justifies the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who want more than just a view from a distance. Nature lovers, wildlife watchers, and those curious about glaciers will find it especially rewarding. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable paddling and hiking over uneven terrain, and it’s an excellent way to see the Tongass National Forest in all its glory.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

If you’re less mobile, have back or hip problems, or prefer a more relaxed, less physical experience, this might not be your best choice. The tour requires a good physical fitness level and ability to hike over steep, uneven ground for over an hour.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers so much more than a simple sightseeing trip. It’s a chance to paddle among icebergs, hike close to an iconic glacier, and learn about the area’s wildlife from guides who genuinely love what they do. The scenery is spectacular, and the opportunity to see eagles, waterfalls, and glaciers up close makes it a standout.

If you’re active and eager to experience Alaska’s wilderness authentically, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s well-organized, safe, and highly praised for the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. The price reflects the quality, gear, and personal attention you’ll receive—making it a worthwhile investment in a memorable Alaskan adventure.

This experience truly captures the spirit of Juneau’s wild beauty, perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing and create lasting memories amidst glaciers, waterfalls, and eagles.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation from downtown Juneau to the start point is included, making the logistics straightforward.

What gear do I need? All necessary gear—rain jackets and pants, waterproof boots, helmets, and trekking poles—are provided. It’s also recommended to bring warm layers like wool socks, gloves, and a hat.

Is this tour suitable for children? The minimum age is 12 years old, and participants should be able to hike over steep, uneven terrain and paddle for an hour each way.

Will I get to walk on the glacier ice? No, the tour does not provide access to glacier ice; instead, you’ll hike near the glacier and see ice caves and moulins from a safe distance.

How physically demanding is the tour? It requires a good fitness level, as you will paddle for about two hours total and hike about 1-2 miles over rocky, uneven ground.

Can I see wildlife? Absolutely. Many guests report eagle sightings and waterfalls along the route, with guides providing insights about the local ecosystem.

In the end, the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour is an immersive, active way to experience some of Alaska’s most iconic scenery. With knowledgeable guides and stunning views, it’s perfect for travelers craving authentic wilderness encounters. Just come prepared for physical activity, wear appropriate layers, and get ready for a day you won’t forget.