Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Hike Adventure

Up close with blue ice, wild birds and glacier stories in Juneau

You’ll paddle across chilly Mendenhall Lake in Juneau with a local guide, passing noisy arctic terns and waterfalls before hiking right up to the face of Mendenhall Glacier. Expect cold air on your cheeks, blue ice shining in crevasses, and real stories from guides who know these waters by heart.

Step-by-step itinerary

Canoe paddle and glacier hike

• Receive paddle instruction at Mendenhall Lake
• Board canoe with gear
• Paddle towards Mendenhall Glacier
• View Arctic tern nesting grounds and Nugget Falls
• Watch for freshly calved icebergs near glacier
• Exit canoes and hike rocky terrain
• Observe glacier features and learn about recession
• Return paddle across Mendenhall Lake

The experience

I didn’t expect to feel so small when we pushed off from the shore at Mendenhall Lake. Our guide, Ben, handed out paddles and cracked a joke about “Alaskan upper body workouts”. I laughed but honestly wondered if my arms would keep up. The water was this weird milky green, cold even through the rubber boots they gave us. We slid past these little islands where arctic terns were making a racket: one even swooped close enough that I ducked (Ben said they’re just dramatic). My hands started to ache a bit from gripping the paddle, but it faded as we got into rhythm.

The closer we got to Mendenhall Glacier, the quieter everyone got. There’s this moment when you realize that blue isn’t just a color. It’s almost glowing in the cracks of the ice. We spotted a chunk of iceberg bobbing near Nugget Falls, and I swear it looked like glass. The wind picked up suddenly and you could smell something sharp: like snow mixed with wet rocks. When we finally landed and clambered out onto the rocky shore, I nearly slipped (graceful as ever), but Ben steadied me and pointed out how fast the glacier’s been shrinking just in his lifetime. It hit different hearing it from someone who grew up here.

The hike itself wasn’t long but felt raw: lots of uneven stones, patches of moss, and that constant hush except for our boots crunching. We didn’t go onto the glacier itself (they told us upfront), but standing right at its edge was enough. You could hear little pops and cracks inside the ice if you stood still. I kept thinking about how old this place is: like you’re borrowing time from another world or something.

What’s included

Your day includes all national park fees covered, full paddle instruction with professional guides who know every corner of Mendenhall Lake, bottled water and snacks to keep you going, plus all necessary paddling equipment: rain gear and sturdy rubber boots are supplied so you don’t have to worry about getting soaked or cold while exploring near the glacier’s edge.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 3 May 2027

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Child (12 to 17 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 11 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Above and Beyond Alaska

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (12 to 17 years). Children under 12 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Mendenhall Glacier canoe paddle & hike?

The tour involves paddling 5-6 miles roundtrip by canoe plus about 2 miles of hiking total.

Do I need prior canoe experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed. Guides provide full paddle instruction before starting out.

Is lunch included on the Mendenhall Glacier day trip?

No lunch is provided, but bottled water and snacks are included during the tour.

Can you walk on top of Mendenhall Glacier during this tour?

No, this tour does not include trekking on the glacier itself. You explore its edge safely from bedrock.

What should I wear for the Juneau glacier paddle & hike?

Rain gear and rubber boots are provided. Bring warm layers suitable for wet conditions.

Are there age or weight limits for this canoe tour?

The minimum age is 12 years old. Maximum weight per person is 250 pounds.

Is hotel pickup included for this Juneau glacier tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned. Guests meet at Mendenhall Lake for departure.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

The amount of time at the glacier depends on weather. Tours may be rescheduled if conditions are unsafe.