Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Guide Hiking Adventure

Experience the Mendenhall Glacier Guide Hike, a thrilling 6-7 mile adventure! Your journey begins with a 3-mile trek through the Tongass National Forest, the world's largest temperate rainforest. Your experienced guide will lead you through this wilderness, winding past beaver ponds and scrambling up exposed glacial terrain, where the trail fades into the wild.
Upon emerging from the forest and reaching the final ridge, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking view of the Mendenhall Glacier's jagged facade and its ice river. Here, we savor panoramic views of the glacier, indulge in hearty snacks, and capture awe-inspiring photos. Gaze upon the glacier's deep blue crevasses, cascading icefall, surrounding mountains and Nugget Falls.

This hiking tour is not for the faint of heart; it demands exceptional balance and sure-footedness. The trail includes 800 feet of elevation gain, through rocky, uneven, and slippery terrain. It's a memorable journey that promises unforgettable views.

Meeting Point

490 S Franklin St

490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

The “C” Sign, located near the cruise ship docks directly between Mt. Roberts Tramway and the green Taku Smokeries building, is our centralized downtown meeting location for all clients in the downtown area, including the majority of cruise ship passengers.

What's included:

• Backpack, rain jacket and pants -- please advise supplier of rain gear sizing
• Roundtrip transportation from designated meeting point
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Hearty snack/bottled water

What to expect:

Duration: 6 hours

Trace the path of glacial succession as you introduce yourself to glacier trekking and the natural history of the Mendenhall Glacier! The trip begins with a 3.5 mile (5.6km) trail hike through the rainforest along Mendenhall Lake. The first mile of the trail is well maintained and goes through forests with a few switchbacks, while the second 2.5 miles (4km) of the trail is hiking on bedrock with rock scrambling in some steep sections. This rocky terrain is challenging and off the beaten path.
Once reaching the glacier, you will be outfitted in trekking gear. With the use of crampons, enjoy trekking on moderate glacial terrain overlooking Mendenhall Lake. This trip features close-up views of ice caves, streams, crevasses and other unique glacial formations!Professional expert guides will provide training to ensure a safe and fun adventure on Mendenhall Glacier.

The Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb caters to all ages and abilities, however, clients must be in good enough shape to hike for up to

6-6.5-hours, covering about 8 miles (12.8km) roundtrip. The hike to the glacier is challenging and hiking with a backpack is required. The backpack is provided, weighs approximately 10-15 pounds and holds mountaineering gear, snacks/water, and any extra clothing that you would like to bring.