Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
Journey into the heart of the wilderness. Hike through the Tongass National Forest and witness the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier. A challenging but unforgettable adventure awaits.
Duration
6 Hours
Activity
Hiking, Glacier TrekkingFitness Level
StrenuousPrice
From $209 per person plus taxThe Experience
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, enveloped in majestic Sitka spruce and hemlock trees. Your experienced guide will lead you through this lush wilderness, winding past beaver ponds and scrambling up exposed bedrock, where the trail fades into the wild.
Upon emerging from the forest and reaching the final ridge, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of the Mendenhall Glacier’s jagged facade and its majestic ice river. Here, we pause to savor panoramic views of the glacier, indulge in hearty snacks, and capture awe-inspiring photos. As you gaze upon the glacier, admire the deep blue crevasses and cascading icefall at its base. This captivating vista not only encompasses the glacier but also the surrounding mountains and the mighty Nugget Falls.
This invigorating Juneau wilderness 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 natural wonders. If you require a fast or slower pace, or would like to get closer to the glacier, please consider booking the Privately Guided Mendenhall Glacier Hike.
Included In The Price
- Professional guides
- Roundtrip van transport
- US Forest Service permits
- Rain gear (hooded jacket and pants) and backpack
- Hearty, healthy snack
- Souvenir water bottle (we strongly encourage you bring a reusable water bottle to help minimize waste)
- All safety gear including trekking poles if needed.
Not Included In Price
- Boots! Clients must provide their own hiking boots for this trip.
- Hot shower at the end of the day, but you can book your unique stay here.
- Professional Photography
- Gratuity for your guide: If you feel that your guide went Above and Beyond to facilitate an exceptional experience, a gratuity is a welcomed way to show your appreciation.
Pick up from Downtown Juneau
Van transportation to ABAK
Gear Outfitting and Orientation
Get to know your guide and gear!
Questions about the gear sizing?
Hike approximately 3.5 miles to the Glacier Viewpoint
A fun jaunt through temperate rainforest via the West Glacier Trail
Viewpoint – photography and snacks
Enjoy the panoramic views of the Mendenhall Glacier!
Return Hike to the Trailhead
Don’t worry, it’s mostly downhill.
De-gear and Return Van Transport
Thanks for joining us!
Client Pickup Information
Located at the base of the Mt. Roberts Tramway, the C-Sign is ABAK’s primary downtown meeting location for cruise passengers and clients staying in the downtown area.
Clients arriving at AJ Dock:
Clients who dock at the AJ Dock within 30 minutes of the ABAK pick-up time will be picked up directly from AJ DOCK.
Clients Staying Locally:
Clients can be picked up from any major hotel in the Mendenhall Valley.
Clients staying at major hotels in the Downtown area will meet at our Downtown meeting location.
ABAK is unable to provide pick-up in residential neighborhoods. Clients staying at private residences, Air BnB’s, VRBO’s, or have own transportation please contact our office for meeting location information at 907-290-2318 or info@beyondak.com.
- This trip operates in all weather conditions (barring unsafe conditions, to be determined by ABAK) – We can’t stress enough to dress appropriately.
- Glacier Access and feature exploration: The Mendenhall Glacier is receding daily. Because the glacier is in a state of constant change, not all features may be present to be viewed. Groups will stop at the panoramic overview. This tour does not continue to the edge of the glacier.
- A specific amount of time hiking cannot be guaranteed. The amount of time at the glacier is dependent on the group’s pace and weather conditions.
- Clients must be able to hike for at least 4 hours/7 miles round trip on steep, rocky, slippery, and uneven terrain carrying a 10 lb backpack.
- Clients must provide their own sturdy hiking boots for this trip.
- Clients must disclose information regarding pertinent medical conditions/history, allergies and any type of restrictions or limitations that might introduce a higher degree of challenge on this trip.
- Every participant must sign a Release of Liability/Assumption of Risk Form at the start of the trip. Alterations and/or deletions to the form are not permitted.
- A rescue fee of $250 per client will be charged for any rescue based on the client’s inability to complete the trek due to undisclosed medical conditions/limitations or an insufficient level of physical fitness that significantly inhibits the group’s pace.
- Due to various fitness abilities and weather variables, we prefer clients not schedule other excursions directly before or after our trip. Please let us know if your clients have another excursion booked on the same day.
- Due to inherent risk involved in this type of tour, pregnant guests are not permitted to participate.
From $209 per person plus tax
Videos from our visitors who hiked to the glacier
We’ve got glaciers, what do you want to know?!
Above & Beyond Alaska offers guided adventures to both the Mendenhall Glacier and Norris Glacier. These include hiking, canoeing, and packrafting experiences, each providing unique perspectives of Alaska’s glacial landscapes.
Mendenhall Glacier is approximately 12 miles from downtown Juneau, accessible by road and a 3-4 mile hike. Norris Glacier is situated within the Tongass National Forest and is accessed via a scenic floatplane flight, offering a more remote wilderness experience.
Depending on the chosen tour, activities may include:
- Hiking: Guided treks through the Tongass National Rainforest to the glacier’s panoramic viewpoint.
- Canoeing: Paddling across glacial lake to approach the glacier.
- Packrafting: Inflatable raft adventures on glacial waters.
- Flightseeing: Scenic floatplane flights over the Juneau Icefield.
The prime season for glacier tours is from May to September. Each month offers unique experiences:
- May-June: Drier months with blooming flora.
- July-August: Warmer temperatures and peak wildlife activity.
- September: Cooler, wetter conditions with fewer visitors.
Tour durations vary based on the activity:
- Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike: Approximately 6 hours.
- Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Hike: Around 5.5 hours.
- Norris Glacier Fly-In Hike & Packraft: Full-day adventure lasting about 5 hours.
Yes, Above & Beyond Alaska works closely with cruise passengers to ensure timely returns to their ship. Departure and return times are carefully scheduled to accommodate cruise itineraries.
Yes, all glacier tours operate rain or shine. Guides provide appropriate gear to keep you comfortable in wet weather. However, in cases of extreme weather that may impact safety, tours may be rescheduled or canceled.
Glacier Tour Reservation Questions
Reservations can be made directly through Above & Beyond Alaska’s website or by contacting them via phone or email. Due to the popularity of these tours, booking in advance is recommended.
The tour price includes:
- Round-trip transportation
- Professional guides
- Glacier-specific gear
- Safety equipment
Cancellations made at least 72 hours prior to a scheduled tour will be refunded in full.
Cancellations made under 72 hours of a scheduled tour are non-refundable.
Above & Beyond Alaska (ABAK) may cancel a trip due to low enrollment, unsafe weather or route conditions, clients not meeting physical requirements, or other safety issues. A full refund will be issued if the trip has not started. However, ABAK is not responsible for additional expenses (e.g., non-refundable airfare, meals, lodging). ABAK will fully refund any tour cancellations due to changes in the cruise ship sailings that result in the tour not being rescheduled.
Glacier Tour Preparation and What to Bring
It is recommended to dress in layers with moisture-wicking and insulating materials such as polyester, wool, or fleece. Comfortable hiking shoes or boots are essential. Above & Beyond Alaska provides glacier-specific gear, including crampons and waterproof outerwear.
Light snacks are included in most tours. However, bringing your own reusable water bottle is encouraged.
Yes, glacier tours involve moderate physical activity:
- For hiking tours, participants should be able to hike 3-6 miles on uneven and rocky terrain.
- Canoeing tours require paddling for up to 6 miles.
- Packrafting tours involve light paddling and hiking on uneven terrain.
If you have specific concerns about physical fitness, contact Above & Beyond Alaska to discuss your needs.
For Pack Creek, participants should be able to confidently hike 1-2 miles in wilderness conditions.
The Waterfall Creek tour involves walking over uneven terrain and may require light hiking.
During The Tour
Safety is a top priority. Guides are certified in wilderness safety and first aid. They provide a thorough orientation and ensure that all participants are properly equipped with safety gear.
In the event of unsafe weather conditions, tours may be rescheduled or canceled. Guests will be offered a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule.
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring cameras to capture the stunning glacial landscapes. Be sure to have a waterproof case or bag to protect your equipment from moisture.
From $209 per person plus tax
