Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Juneau, you’ll likely want to see some of Alaska’s iconic sights without spending your entire vacation on the move. This half-day tour gives you a taste of both the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier and the chance to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a balanced experience that combines scenery, wildlife, and some local insights—all packed into about four hours.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it offers a straightforward itinerary that hits the highlights without overloading your day. The scenic drive to the glacier is a cozy setup, and the whale watching segment delivers plenty of chances to see these giants of the sea. Plus, the knowledgeable guides really add value, sharing insights that make the experience both fun and educational.

That said, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a hike to Nugget Falls—if you’re hoping for a longer trek or more time at the glacier, you might want to look elsewhere. The limited time at Mendenhall means this tour is best suited for those who want a quick, well-rounded overview. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy wildlife spotting, stunning vistas, and don’t mind a bit of cooler weather on the water.

This tour works well for adventurers, wildlife lovers, and first-time visitors looking for a practical, scenic, and memorable experience in Juneau. Let’s dive into the details so you can see if it’s right for your trip.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with glacier views, wildlife spotting, and whale watching
• Excellent value for the price, including transportation, guides, snacks, and gear
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Limited time at Mendenhall means no hike to Nugget Falls included
• Good for those wanting a quick, rundown of Juneau’s natural highlights
• Weather considerations: layered clothing and rain gear recommended due to cooler temperatures on the water

If you’re planning a visit to Juneau, you’ll find that this tour packs some of the best of what Alaska’s capital has to offer, into a manageable four-hour window. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines the stunning visuals of the Mendenhall Glacier with the wildlife spectacle of whale watching. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone simply eager to tick off Alaska’s famous sights, this tour aims to deliver without requiring a full day’s commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The journey begins with a bus ride from downtown Juneau to the Mendenhall Valley. This scenic drive offers a glimpse of the Alaskan wilderness, setting the stage for what’s to come. Once there, you’ll visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center — a hub of information and a prime spot for taking in the views. The glacier itself is an impressive, massive sheet of ice that has carved out the landscape over thousands of years. You won’t have time for a long hike, but you will get a good look at the glacier and learn about its history and surrounding environment from your guide.

The Mendenhall Glacier Experience

At the glacier, most of the tour participants gather at the self-guided area for a quick look around. The boardwalk over Steep Creek is a highlight, especially if you’re interested in wildlife. Here, you might see spawning salmon—a lively sight—and possibly spot black bears patiently waiting for their turn at the fish. Many reviews mention how the guides are great at pointing out these natural occurrences and sharing stories about local wildlife behavior. For example, some travelers noted, “The guides were great, nice guys all around,” and loved how much they learned about the area.

The Limited Hike to Nugget Falls

It’s worth noting that this tour does not include a hike to Nugget Falls—a popular spot for close-up glacier views and photo opportunities. If you’re craving that extra time or want to walk out to the waterfall, you might want to explore the longer Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour, which offers that for just a few more dollars.

The Whale Watching Excursion

After your glacier visit, you’ll hop onto a boat at Auke Bay Harbor. The boat is typically covered but has open viewing areas, allowing for a clear view of the water and mountains. Here’s where the magic of Alaska’s whale habitat comes into play. With binoculars provided, you’ll scan the waves for humpback whales, and if luck is on your side, you might see orcas or other marine life.

The naturalist guide adds layers of insight, explaining whale habits and behaviors as you watch them breach or feed. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make the experience more engaging. One reviewer raved, “Mia and Simon were great at finding us whales,” which shows the value of a dedicated team that actively seeks out wildlife.

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The Return and Refreshments

Once your boat trip wraps up, you’ll return to shore for some warm drinks and a snack, a nice touch considering how brisk it can be on the water. Return transportation to downtown Juneau completes the loop, leaving you with plenty of time to explore or relax afterward.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Value

This tour costs around $151 per person, which might sound like a fair chunk of change, but considering what’s included—roundtrip transport, boat trip, snacks, water, hot chocolate, binoculars, and a self-guided glacier stop—it offers good value. You’re not just paying for the sights but also the expertise of guides and the convenience of a well-organized trip.

The duration of four hours makes it manageable even if you’re tight on time, and the morning and afternoon options provide flexibility. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues—the tour involves navigating some steep ramps and dealing with cooler waters.

Weather and Packing Tips

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, especially on the water. Many reviewers recommend layered clothing, including rain gear and thermal layers, to stay comfortable during the boat ride. Since temperatures tend to be cooler on the water, dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is wise.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers quite a bit, it doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off—so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point. Also, if you’re hoping to hike to Nugget Falls, you’ll need to plan that separately.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of Juneau’s natural beauty without dedicating an entire day. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the whale watching, especially since guides are skilled at spotting and explaining whale behaviors. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a guided, organized trip with everything taken care of, rather than trying to navigate on their own.

If you’re traveling with small children or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit due to some steep ramps and the boat’s setup. However, if you’re comfortable with these considerations, it offers a well-rounded, memorable taste of Alaska.

All in all, the Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour provides a compelling mix of scenery, wildlife, and expert insights—all in a convenient four-hour package. The stunning glacier views and whale sightings are what most travelers rave about, backed by guides who make the experience informative and fun.

While it’s on the shorter side and doesn’t include a hike to Nugget Falls, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive, value-packed experience that captures the essence of Alaska’s wilderness. If you’re after a taste of glaciers, marine mammals, and the chance to learn from local guides, this tour is worth considering.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the meeting point to the glacier and boat departure area is included, so you’ll be picked up and dropped off at the designated spot.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your travel plans shift.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a jacket, rain gear, weather-appropriate clothing, and thermal layers. It’s also smart to carry some cash or card for extra snacks or souvenirs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly described as family-friendly, it’s generally suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and walking over ramps. It’s best for older children who can handle cooler weather and some walking.

What wildlife might I see?
Most likely, you’ll see humpback whales, and possibly orcas. On land, you might spot spawning salmon and black bears along the creek.

Does the tour include time for hiking?
No, this tour does not include hiking to Nugget Falls. If that’s a priority, look into the longer Glacier and Waterfall tour.

This tour offers a down-to-earth way to experience some of Alaska’s top sights—beautiful glaciers, impressive whales, and the chance to learn from local guides. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a practical, enjoyable introduction to Juneau’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: