The Best Mendenhall Glacier Tours: Top Picks for Every Traveler
Visiting Juneau and wondering which Mendenhall Glacier tour to choose? With so many options, finding the perfect tour can be tough! Whether you’re looking for an affordable trip, a gentle pace, or an adventure-packed experience, this guide will help you pick the best one. Based on our own visits, we’ve covered top guided tours that make Mendenhall Glacier one of Juneau’s best shore excursions. Let’s find the tour that’s right for you!
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Mendenhall Glacier Tours: Our Experiences
Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most stunning natural wonders, drawing visitors from all over the world. But choosing the perfect tour can be tricky with so many options out there.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed information on a variety of tours that take you right up to the glacier. We’ll cover everything from quick shuttle services to intense ice-cave treks and scenic canoe paddles. With options for every budget, fitness level, and schedule, this guide will help you find the best Mendenhall Glacier tour for your Alaska adventure.
Chris and I have been lucky to visit Juneau multiple times, usually arriving on scenic Inside Passage cruises. This route is one of the easiest and most breathtaking ways to reach Juneau, and it never disappoints!
For us, it’s one of the best Alaska ports of call. During our visits, we experienced both guided tours and explored Mendenhall Glacier on our own.
In this article, we’ll focus on guided Mendenhall Glacier tours, which are among the best shore excursions in Juneau. Guided options add so much to your experience, from expert insights to convenient transportation.
Whether it’s your first time in Alaska or you’re returning for more, these tours offer something for everyone. Dive in and find out how to make the most of your time at Mendenhall Glacier!
Types of Mendenhall Glacier Tours
When it comes to experiencing Mendenhall Glacier, there’s a tour for every type of traveler. Whether you want an affordable option, a family-friendly excursion, or an adventurous trek, Juneau offers it all.
Most tours include convenient pick-up and drop-off at the Juneau cruise terminal, with the meeting point typically located near the Goldbelt Tram in downtown Juneau. Here’s a breakdown of the main types to help you choose the perfect fit:
Shore Excursions for Cruise Passengers
Cruise visitors often have limited time, so shore excursions are a great way to make the most of your one day in Juneau. These tours cater to cruise schedules, offering options that include transportation and time-efficient visits.
Shore excursions often feature knowledgeable guides who share insights about Mendenhall Glacier and the surrounding area so you get a deeper understanding of Juneau’s landscape and history.
Popular Shore Excursions:
- Canoe Paddle & Trek. Perfectly timed to fit cruise schedules, this 5.5-hour tour combines canoeing and trekking.
- Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier. A 4.5-hour tour combines a short visit to the stunning glacier with whale watching in Juneau, which is one of the best spots in Alaska for observing whales.
Budget-Friendly Options
For those looking to experience Mendenhall Glacier without breaking the bank, there are affordable options, including convenient shuttle services that bring you directly to the glacier.
These tours allow for a self-guided experience, letting you explore the glacier’s visitor center and nearby trails at your own pace. It’s a fantastic way to see the glacier without the cost of a guided tour.
Popular Budget-Friendly Options:
- Trolley Round-Trip Service. Round-trip transportation that lets you explore the glacier on your own. 3-hour trolley tour go and back with the same guide on the same trolley. You will have 2 hours to explore the glacier area and the Visitor Center.
- Express Tour. A quick, budget-friendly option that provides transportation and time to explore without extras. You have 2 hours to explore the glacier area on your own.
Agnes’ Advice: If you are a budget-conscious traveler, you might be interested in related articles: Can you go to Mendenhall Glacier on your own? And The best Mendenhall Glacier hikes.
Adventure Tours
If you’re craving excitement and want to get up close to the glacier, adventure tours are for you. These tours often combine hiking, canoeing, and trekking, bringing you to some of the glacier’s most breathtaking spots, like ice caves and unique formations. We took several glacier kayaking tours in Alaska, and canoe tours are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Expect a bit of a workout and a chance to experience Mendenhall’s rugged beauty. Perfect for thrill-seekers!
Popular Adventure Tours:
- Ice Adventure Tour: Paddle across the lake, then hike on the glacier to discover incredible ice formations.
- Canoe & Trek Combo: Start with a scenic paddle, then trek along the glacier for sweeping views.
Family-Friendly Tours
If you’re planning an Alaska cruise with family, these tours work well for all ages and focus on a gentle pace and safety. Family-friendly tours allow everyone to enjoy the glacier’s beauty without the challenge of intense physical activity.
Many include stops to explore the rainforest trails near Mendenhall Lake, giving kids and adults a chance to enjoy the scenery and maybe even spot wildlife.
Popular Family-Friendly Tours:
- Lake Canoe Tour: A calm paddle across the lake for views of the glacier. Great for all experience levels and kids at least 12 years old.
- Rainforest and Waterfalls Hike: A guided walk through the rainforest with fascinating stops along the way, perfect for families with younger children. The minimum age is 8 years unless you call to make arrangements. During the hike, you will see also the glacier, visitor center, and its area. We explored the rainforest sanctuary in Ketchikan, and it was a great experience.
Agnes’ Advice: Before you go on a tour, check out our detailed Alaska Cruise Packing List to prepare for your adventure. Also, check out the weather forecast before your tour.
The Best Mendenhall Glacier Tours
Let’s take a closer look at the best, highest-rated, guided Mendenhall Glacier tours.
Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour
This Lake Canoe Tour is a fantastic way to get close to Mendenhall Glacier in a fun, water-based adventure. This guided paddle takes you across Mendenhall Lake, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains without intense physical demands. This tour is ideal for people looking for a safe and exciting way to explore the glacier area.
Tour Highlights:
- A calm paddle across Mendenhall Lake, where families can enjoy the sights at a relaxed pace.
- Close views of the glacier and floating icebergs, offering amazing photo opportunities.
- Friendly guides who share stories and insights about the glacier’s history and local wildlife.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 4 hours
- Physical Level: Easy to moderate, also suitable for families with kids at least 12 years old
- Provider: Liquid Alaska Tours
- Check the details and book your canoe tour
Glacier Paddle and Trek
The Glacier Paddle and Trek 5.5-hour Tour combines the thrill of paddling with a rewarding glacier hike, and it’s timed perfectly for cruise passengers. You’ll start by paddling across Mendenhall Lake, gliding through calm waters with striking glacier views. Then, you’ll step onto the glacier for an adventurous trek, taking in awe-inspiring views and unique ice formations. You must be capable of paddling 5-6 miles and hiking about 2 miles roundtrip.
Tour Highlights:
- A well-paced adventure that’s ideal for cruise passengers with limited time.
- Learn about the glacier’s formation, history, and surrounding ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
- Paddle close to the glacier, then explore its surface, seeing ice formations up close.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 5.5 hours
- Physical Level: Moderate
- Provider: Above and Beyond Alaska
- Check the details and book your paddle and trek tour
Rainforest and Waterfalls Trek
This guided Rainforest and Waterfall trek through the lush rainforest surrounding Mendenhall Glacier is an accessible and enjoyable family experience. You’ll follow well-maintained trails that wind through the beautiful Tongass National Forest, stopping at scenic waterfalls and learning about the region’s unique plant and animal life. It’s a great way to experience Alaska’s natural beauty without any challenging terrain.
Tour Highlights:
- A family-friendly hike through the rainforest with stops at scenic viewpoints and waterfalls.
- Engaging guides who make learning about Alaska’s wildlife and plants fun for kids and adults alike.
- Suitable for young children and families seeking a low-key way to experience the glacier environment.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Physical Level: Easy to moderate, suitable for all ages
- Provider: Alaska Luxury Tours LLC
- Check the details and book your rainforest and waterfall trek
Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour
This Glacier Express Tour is an excellent choice for cruise passengers or families who want a quick but immersive visit to the glacier. This tour provides transportation and time to explore the glacier and Visitor Center area, allowing families to take in the sights without a long commitment.
The short duration and minimal physical activity make it a great option for those with young kids. You have 2 hours to explore the glacier area on your own. It’s enough time to take short but scenic hikes, including Photo Point Trail and The Nugget Falls Trail. It’s also one of the most affordable options to get to the glacier.
Tour Highlights:
- A time-efficient tour that includes transportation to the glacier and enough time to explore.
- Great views of the glacier from the Visitor Center and nearby viewpoints.
- Ideal for families with limited time or younger kids who prefer a shorter outing.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Physical Level: Easy, family-friendly
- Provider: M&M Glacier and City Tours
- Check the details and book your express glacier tour
Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour
The Whale Watching & Glacier Tour offers a comprehensive Alaskan experience, combining marine wildlife observation with a visit to one of Juneau’s most iconic natural landmarks. You will spend approximately 1.5 hours exploring the Mendenhall Glacier area. Then, embark on a 2-hour cruise through the waters near Juneau, where sightings of humpback whales are guaranteed.
Tour Highlights:
- A time-efficient tour that includes the best of Juneau: whale watching and visiting glaciers.
- Great views of the glacier from the Visitor Center and nearby viewpoints.
- Exceptional marine wildlife viewing.
- Ideal for visitors with limited time.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 4.5 hours
- Physical Level: Easy, family-friendly
- Provider: Alaska Tales
- Check the details and book your whale-watching and glacier tour
Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves Adventure
This Glacier Ice Adventure Tour combines a paddle across Mendenhall Lake with a hike onto the glacier itself, taking you to explore mesmerizing ice caves beneath the glacier. It’s a challenging yet rewarding tour, ideal for those with a sense of adventure and a moderate fitness level. However, this tour doesn’t provide access to walk on glacier ice.
Tour Highlights:
- Paddle across the lake with views of towering mountains and icy blue waters.
- Hike around the rocky surfaces located directly in front of the glacier.
- Capture unforgettable photos inside the caves, surrounded by glowing blue ice.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Physical Level: Moderate to high fitness required
- Provider: Liquid Alaska Tours
- Check the details and book your glacier ice adventure tour
Fly-In Glacier Hike and Packraft
The Fly-In Glacier Hike and Packraft Tour offers an unparalleled Alaskan adventure, combining flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting into a single, unforgettable experience. The tour is 5 hours long.
Begin your journey with a breathtaking floatplane flight over the Taku Inlet, providing aerial views of the Juneau Icefield and its surrounding wilderness. After landing on a lake fed by the Norris Glacier, embark on a guided hike over glacially carved terrain. Conclude your excursion by paddling in a single-person packraft through the pristine waters near the glacier.
Tour Highlights:
- Scenic Floatplane Flight
- Glacier Hike. Equipped with micro-spikes and trekking poles, you’ll explore the glacier’s unique features, including crevasses, glacier pools, and moulins.
- Packrafting Adventure. Navigate past icebergs and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Physical Level: Moderate to strenuous; suitable for participants with a good level of fitness
- Provider: Above & Beyond Alaska
- Check the details and book your fly-in glacier hike and packraft tour
Round-Trip Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour
This Glacier Trolley Tour is a simple, flexible, and budget-friendly way to reach Mendenhall Glacier, making it ideal for families or cruise passengers who prefer to explore at their own pace. Once at the glacier, you’ll have the freedom to visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, check out exhibits, and explore nearby trails.
It’s a great way to enjoy the area without the constraints of a formal tour. You will have 2 hours to explore the glacier area at your pace. You will ride out and back on with the same guide on the same trolley.
Tour Highlights:
- Convenient transportation to and from Mendenhall Glacier, allowing for flexible exploration.
- Access to the Visitor Center with educational displays and nearby trails suitable for all ages.
- A cost-effective way to experience the glacier and surrounding area.
Tour Details:
- Duration: 3 hours
- Physical Level: Easy, perfect for families with young children or strollers
- Provider: Juneau Tours
- Check the details and book your trolley tour
Tips for Choosing the Right Tour
With so many incredible options, picking the perfect Mendenhall Glacier tour can be a challenge. To make the right choice, consider the following tips to ensure your tour matches your interests, schedule, and fitness level. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Book in Advance, Especially During Peak Cruise Season
Alaska’s peak cruise season (typically May through September) brings many visitors to Juneau, and Mendenhall Glacier tours fill up quickly. Booking early ensures you secure a spot on the tour of your choice, especially for popular shore excursions and adventure tours with limited availability. If you’re visiting during this high-demand season, reserving in advance will save you from last-minute stress and help guarantee a memorable experience on your preferred tour.
Consider Your Fitness Level
Tours to Mendenhall Glacier range from relaxed shuttle rides to strenuous hikes and paddle adventures. If you prefer a light activity, go for a family-friendly or shuttle tour. But if you’re an experienced hiker or looking for adventure, opt for glacier treks or packrafting tours. Always read the tour’s physical requirements to ensure it aligns with your comfort level.
Think About Your Budget
Alaska cruise may cost a lot. Also, Mendenhall Glacier tours vary in cost, with options for every budget. For a low-cost experience, consider the round-trip shuttle, which gives you flexibility to explore on your own. Mid-range tours, like canoe paddles or rainforest hikes, offer guided experiences without the higher price tag. For a premium experience, go for an adventure tour with unique add-ons like ice cave exploration or packrafting.
Match Your Schedule with the Tour Length
If you’re arriving by cruise, timing is crucial. Check your shore time and choose a tour that fits within that window, allowing time for boarding and departure. Many shore excursions are designed to fit cruise schedules, ensuring you’re back in time. For independent travelers, longer tours like the fly-in packrafting adventure are worth considering for a deeper experience.
Assess Your Interest in Specific Activities
Ask yourself what you want to experience most. Is it a relaxing paddle on a lake, a guided hike in the rainforest, or an up-close glacier trek? Each tour focuses on different activities, so choose the one that excites you most. Adventure seekers might love ice caves and packrafting, while families may prefer a canoe or shuttle ride.
Check What’s Included
Be sure to look at what each tour includes, such as transportation, gear, snacks, or entry fees. For glacier treks or canoe trips, most companies provide safety gear, but some may require you to bring specific items. Knowing these details in advance will help you avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Mendenhall Glacier tour can make your visit to Juneau unforgettable. With so many options, from thrilling glacier treks to family-friendly lake paddles and convenient shuttle services, there’s a tour for everyone.
Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking adventure, or just looking for a peaceful way to experience the glacier, planning ahead ensures you’ll have the best possible experience.
Remember to book early if you’re visiting during peak cruise season, check the physical requirements, and consider what type of tour suits your style. A Mendenhall Glacier excursion isn’t just a tour — it’s an incredible way to connect with Alaska’s rugged beauty, learn about this awe-inspiring glacier, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy your adventure at Mendenhall Glacier!
If you plan to explore other Alaskan ports of call, make sure to check out our related articles:
- The best Ketchikan shore excursions
- The best Skagway shore excursions
- The best Sitka shore excursions
- The best Icy Strait Point shore excursions
- The best Haines shore excursions
- The best Juneau shore excursions
- The Best Alaska Cruise Excursions to Book in 2026
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