Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour

Exploring the untamed wilderness surrounding Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier is a thrilling adventure. This 4-hour tour combines canoeing across the stunning Mendenhall Lake with guided hikes revealing breathtaking landscapes of ice caves and remote beaches. With a 99% recommendation rate, it’s no wonder this tour has captured the interest of over 1,100 travelers. What makes this excursion so captivating, and how can you make the most of your time in this Alaskan wonderland?

Key Points

• The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour offers a 4-hour experience of canoeing, hiking, and exploring the glacier in Juneau, USA.
• The tour provides opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles and bears, and enjoy views of cascading waterfalls and mountain peaks.
• Comprehensive gear and safety measures are included, with a minimum age of 12 and weight requirements for participants.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the tour with their expertise, friendly demeanor, and passion for the Alaskan wilderness.
• The tour has earned a 99% recommendation rate from over 1,132 positive reviews, highlighting the memorable and personalized experience it offers.

Tour Overview

The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour is a popular excursion located in Juneau, USA.

With 1,132 total reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.

Priced from $359 per person, the 4-hour experience includes 1 hour at the Mendenhall Glacier, 2 hours canoeing, and 1.5 hours hiking.

Travelers can expect to paddle across Mendenhall Lake, view icebergs and wildlife, and explore remote beaches and ice caves near the glacier.

The dynamic nature of the glacier ensures each tour is unique, providing personal experiences and diverse scenery.

Itinerary and Experience

Paddling across the serene Mendenhall Lake, travelers will be treated to breathtaking views of icebergs, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountain peaks nestled within the Tongass National Forest.

Upon reaching the glacier, guests will embark on a guided hike, exploring remote beaches and ice caves along the way. Opportunities to spot wildlife, from bald eagles to bears, add to the unique experience.

Though each tour varies due to the dynamic nature of the glacier, visitors can expect to be awed by the ever-changing scenery and personal encounters throughout this unforgettable adventure.

Meeting and Transportation

For this tour, the meeting point is the Goldbelt Tram at 490 S Franklin St in downtown Juneau, Alaska.

From there, transportation to the starting point is included. The van ride takes approximately 25 minutes.

This convenient arrangement allows travelers to easily access the tour location without the hassle of driving themselves. By providing transportation, the tour company ensures a smooth and seamless experience, allowing guests to focus on the upcoming adventure.

With the meeting point in downtown Juneau, the tour is accessible for those staying in the city, making it a practical choice for visitors.

Gear and Safety

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour provides participants with an array of specialized gear. This includes a rain jacket, pants, waterproof boots, a life vest, and a helmet.

Trekking poles are also provided to aid in hiking. Bottled water and snacks are included, and hot beverages are available throughout the tour.

Safety requirements dictate a minimum age of 12 and weight between 90 and 240 pounds. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back/hip problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

A strong fitness level is required for canoeing and hiking.

Guides and Reviews

What sets the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour apart are its knowledgeable and personable guides. The small group size ensures travelers receive personalized attention throughout the tour.

Guides are praised for their expertise, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience with fun facts and stories. Customers consistently highlight the guides’ role in making the tour memorable, from breathtaking views to unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Whether it’s leading the canoe excursion or guiding the hike, the guides’ passion for the Alaskan wilderness shines through, creating an immersive and engaging experience for all who embark on this glacier adventure.

Explore the Stunning Mendenhall Glacier

Though the Mendenhall Glacier is a natural wonder that draws countless visitors to Juneau each year, the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly take in its stunning beauty.

After a scenic van ride, guests paddle across the serene Mendenhall Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

The highlight is exploring the glacier’s edge, where adventurers can hike to remote beaches and discover captivating ice caves.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour provides an unforgettable encounter with Alaska’s majestic wilderness and the constantly evolving Mendenhall Glacier.

Paddle Through Mendenhall Lake

As guests embark on the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour, they’ll first paddle across the serene Mendenhall Lake, marveling at the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls that surround them.

Gliding through the icy waters, they’ll spot:

Majestic icebergs floating gracefully, powerful waterfalls tumbling down the mountainsides, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier glistening in the sunlight.

1. Majestic icebergs floating gracefully.
2. Powerful waterfalls tumbling down the mountainsides.
3. Diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and harbor seals.
4. The magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, its ancient ice glistening in the sunlight.

This tranquil paddle provides a mesmerizing introduction to the natural wonders of Tongass National Forest before guests venture closer to the glacier itself.

Hike the Trails Near the Glacier

After exploring the serene lake, guests embark on a thrilling hike near the Mendenhall Glacier.

They’ll get up close to the powerful ice formation, stopping at remote beaches and ice caves along the way. The hike offers opportunities to spot wildlife in the Tongass National Forest, from bald eagles soaring overhead to bears foraging near the glacier’s edge.

Trekking poles and proper footwear help navigate the uneven terrain. Although the hike is strenuous, the reward is breathtaking views and a deeper appreciation for the glacier’s dynamic nature.

Guides ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Equipment Allowed on the Tour?

Yes, photography equipment is allowed on the tour. Travelers are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife they’ll encounter during the glacier, canoe, and hiking activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Bottled water and snacks are also provided, but bringing personal provisions can help manage costs and accommodate dietary needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The 4-hour experience is set, including 1 hour at the glacier, 2 hours canoeing, and 1.5 hours hiking. Any requests to lengthen the tour would require booking a separate, additional excursion.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Activity?

The tour includes 1 hour at Mendenhall Glacier, 2 hours canoeing, and 1.5 hours hiking. This provides ample time to fully experience the glacier, paddle across the lake, and explore the surrounding trails and ice caves.

Do the Guides Provide Any Historical or Geological Information?

The guides provide detailed historical and geological information about the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding Tongass National Forest throughout the tour, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the dynamic glacial landscape.

The Sum Up

The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour offers an unforgettable Alaskan experience. With stunning scenery, expert guides, and all gear included, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier and its surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re canoeing across the lake or hiking the trails, this tour promises an adventure you won’t soon forget.