Description
Get right up to the edges of Juneau's most iconic glacier on one of the most hands-on Mendenhall Glacier tours! Take an expedition across Mendenhall Lake in a canoe and get right to the face of this magnificent glacier on the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour. What is seen on any given day may be completely different, the receding glacier guarantees a unique experience for each tour departure. Mendenhall Lake tours are a rare and unique experience. Although this is one of the most visited glaciers in North America, very few permits are issued. This ensures a truly incredible off-the-beaten-path experience. Your canoe ride across Mendenhall Lake will be stunning, full of natural beauty and occasional wildlife. You will paddle past views of Nugget Falls and towering mountains, as well as tern nesting areas.
Your excursion begins at the Mt. Roberts Tram station where your guides will meet you and get you transported up to the west side of Mendenhall Lake, staying away from the large crowds of the Visitor's Center while still providing a history of Juneau and the surrounding Tongass National Forest. You will then get geared up and take in a quick but important safety briefing before launching into a 19-passenger canoe. Your experienced guide will provide insight into the constantly changing glacier, the lake, & its history. As you navigate past floating chunks of glacier ice, keep an eye out for the various wildlife that call this area home, including eagles and otters. Upon completing your paddle across Mendenhall Lake, you'll paddle back to the launch and have a snack upon your return. Once all the gear is back in the van, you will be returned to your cruise docks for easy return to your ship.
The tour is designed to accommodate all skill levels, making it a suitable activity for families and groups. As Alaska is known for its rugged conditions, this tour does operate rain or shine. Book your seats to the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour for an exquisite Alaska adventure!
For a similar tour that includes hiking and views of the Mendenhall Glacier, consider the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear and bring?
We provide a waterproof jacket, pants, boots, a life jacket, paddling gloves, and a dry bag. We suggest wearing comfortable, non-cotton layers to go underneath your waterproof gear, and it's a good idea to bring a hat, gloves, warm socks, and sunglasses. We also provide bottled water and snacks.
How many guests can attend on this tour?
With a focus on keeping group sizes small, this tour has a guest-to-guide ratio of 10:1.
Is the canoe paddle difficult?
No canoe experience is necessary, but be prepared for an arm workout! Winds can make the paddle moderately strenuous when not blowing in your favor.
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 4h 00min • 5 activities
Pick-up is provided from Mount Roberts Tramway near the cruise ship docks in downtown Juneau.
Guides will provide a waterproof jacket, pants, boots, a life jacket, paddling gloves, and a dry bag. After gearing up, they will provide instructions on how to safely and efficiently paddle the canoe.
Enjoy scenic views of the towering mountain peaks & Nugget Falls as you paddle across the scenic and peaceful Mendenhall Lake, before eventually sighting the glacier itself. Your return paddle is just as stunning, being surrounded by the Tongass National Forest.
At the end, you will be given time to remove your gear and enjoy a well-earned snack break and hot beverage before loading back into the vans.
Your guides will return you back to Mount Roberts Tramway near the cruise ship docks for you to either return to your ship or explore nearby downtown Juneau.