Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike

If you’re planning a trip to Juneau and want to experience the glaciers beyond just snapping photos from afar, the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike tour might catch your eye. This experience promises an intimate connection with nature, combining paddling on glacial waters with an accessible hike close to the ice. It’s a compelling option for those who enjoy a mix of physical activity and breathtaking scenery.

What we really like about this tour is how it’s designed for small groups, which means you get more personalized attention from your guides and a more relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of all necessary gear—rain jackets, boots, paddling equipment—means you don’t have to worry about bringing much besides your enthusiasm.

Plus, the presence of excellent reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and the stunning views makes this option stand out.

That said, it’s not a trip for everyone. The tour requires a good level of fitness, as you will be paddling for 5-6 miles and hiking about 2 miles roundtrip. It’s also limited to travelers aged 12 and up, and all participants should be comfortable with physical activity and swimming. If you’re seeking a more leisurely glacier experience or are traveling with younger children, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is well-suited for adventurous travelers who want a hands-on, up-close encounter with Mendenhall Glacier, and who don’t mind a workout in exchange for spectacular scenery. If that sounds like your kind of day, then read on for a detailed breakdown of what you can expect.

Key Points

• Small group experience offers a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• All gear and park fees are included, so no surprise costs.
• Active adventure: paddling and hiking require a good fitness level.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with narration and safety.
• Great reviews highlight the stunning views and knowledgeable guides.
• Age restriction: minimum 12 years old; not suitable for very young kids.

An Inside Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Gear Fitting

The adventure begins at a convenient location in Juneau, where you’ll be transported to the gear warehouse. Here, you’ll be fitted with all the necessary equipment, including rain gear, rubber boots, paddling equipment, and life jackets. During this brief orientation, your guides will explain safety procedures and the plan for the day.

This initial stop is a good chance to ask questions and get comfortable with the gear. Reviewers mention that the organization is smooth — equipment is ready upon arrival, and guides are friendly and professional.

Journey to Mendenhall Lake

Once outfitted, you’ll head to the water. The drive to the park is quick and hassle-free, with transportation included in the tour. As you approach Mendenhall Lake, the anticipation builds—this spot is famous for its views of the glacier and floating icebergs.

Canoeing on Mendenhall Lake

The core activity here is paddling across the tranquil lake fed by glacier melt. You’ll be in 8 or 12-person canoes, guided by experienced professionals. Most reviews speak highly of the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, with one noting, “Good narration by the guide of the flora and fauna around the glacier.”

Paddling against the wind can be a bit strenuous—say, some reviews mention arm fatigue extending for days afterward—but many find it part of the fun and a true workout. The lakeside views are mesmerizing, and getting up close to the glacier’s face is a genuine highlight. As one reviewer put it, “Got up very close to the glacier,” and the sight of ice blocks calving into the water is unforgettable.

The Hike to the Glacier Edge

After paddling, your group will leave the canoes behind and embark on a short hike along rocky terrain towards the glacier. The hike lasts around 30 to 40 minutes and offers a different perspective—more intimate and grounded—of the glacier’s edge.

This walk is accessible but involves some uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The guides will share insights about the glacier’s rapid recession and current conditions, giving you a meaningful understanding of its ongoing change. One reviewer described the experience as “hard work for the arms but a precious experience,” emphasizing how memorable and worthwhile the effort was.

Final Stop at West Glacier Trailhead

The tour wraps up with a return to the gear warehouse, where you return your equipment and relax a bit before heading back to the meeting point. The entire process is organized to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What's Included and What to Expect

The tour provides everything you need to make the day worry-free. Park fees are covered, along with bottled water, snacks, and all paddling gear along with rain gear and boots—crucial for the often rainy Alaskan weather. Guides are professional and attentive, ensuring safety and a wealth of knowledge.

Duration and Group Size

At approximately 5.5 hours, it’s a solid half-day adventure. The group size is capped at 12, which keeps things intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention. This limited size has earned rave reviews from participants, many of whom describe the guides as enthusiastic and well-informed.

Cost and Value

At $402.09 per person, this is not a cheap outing. However, considering the inclusion of all gear, park fees, snacks, and the guide’s expertise, many travelers find it good value, especially given the personalized nature of the experience and the chance to paddle on a glacier-fed lake.

Physical Requirements and Considerations

This tour is best suited for those in good physical condition. You should be comfortable paddling for about an hour, hiking on rocky terrain, and capable of handling the physical demands of the activities. Participants must know how to swim and be at least 12 years old, with a maximum weight of 250 pounds. If you’re concerned about the physical aspect, note that some reviews mention muscle soreness afterward, but most agree it’s worth it.

Weather and Cancellations

Weather can influence your experience. The tour is dependent on good conditions, and if canceled due to weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s advisable to dress in layers and bring rain-resistant clothing to stay comfortable.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, especially about the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. “Mel and Elle made this tour phenomenal,” one traveler raved, highlighting the guides’ energy and expertise. Many mention how close they got to the glacier and how stunning the scenery was.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One reviewer felt the "hiking" was more of a short nature walk and was slightly disappointed, indicating some expectations about the terrain and duration might need clarification. Still, the overall consensus is that the experience is memorable and well-organized.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, physically fit travelers, and anyone eager to get a closer look at Mendenhall Glacier beyond the usual viewpoint. It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with significant health restrictions. If you’re comfortable in water and enjoy active outings, this will likely be a highlight.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely excursion or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options. Likewise, if you prefer to stay dry or prefer less intense activities, this might not suit you.

The Sum Up

The Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle, and Hike tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and incredible scenery. Its small-group format ensures a more personalized experience, which many travelers find enhances the enjoyment. The inclusion of all gear, park fees, and snacks makes it convenient and hassle-free, and the guides' expertise helps deepen your understanding of this rapidly changing natural wonder.

While the tour demands a good level of fitness and involves some physical effort, the payoff is a series of unforgettable moments—paddling close to icebergs, hiking to a glacier’s edge, and witnessing the raw beauty of a glacier in the process of retreat. The positive reviews about the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery suggest this is a worthwhile outing for those seeking an active, immersive Alaskan adventure.

This experience is best for adventurous spirits, nature lovers, and anyone eager to get a hands-on encounter with Alaska’s iconic glaciers. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and want to make the most of your time in Juneau, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is designed for ages 12 and up, primarily because of the physical demands and safety considerations. Younger children or families with very young kids might want to look for more relaxed options.

What should I wear?
It’s best to wear layered clothing suitable for variable weather, plus sturdy shoes for hiking. The tour provides rain gear and rubber boots, so just bring your own comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable paddling 5-6 miles, and hiking around 2 miles roundtrip. It’s a workout, but many find it rewarding and manageable with proper preparation.

What’s included in the price?
All paddling equipment, rain gear, boots, park fees, bottled water, snacks, and the professional guides are included. You won’t need to worry about extra gear or entrance costs.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the tour, and it might be canceled if conditions are unsafe. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, gear fitting, paddling, hiking, and return.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window are non-refundable.

If you're after a blend of activity, education, and jaw-dropping scenery, this Mendenhall Glacier tour has a lot to offer. Just be ready for a workout and bring your sense of adventure!