Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching & Salmon Bake

Summary

Mendenhall’s blue ice, whale spouts in Auke Bay, smoky salmon in the trees

You’ll breathe glacier air at Mendenhall, watch humpbacks break the surface in Auke Bay with your naturalist guide, and end up sharing stories around an open-fire salmon bake deep in Juneau’s forest. Expect laughter, smoky flavors, and moments you’ll remember long after you leave Alaska.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what glacier air actually smells like? I didn’t, until we stepped off the bus at Mendenhall Glacier just outside Juneau. Our guide, Tessa (she grew up here—her accent’s got this soft Alaska lilt), pointed out Nugget Falls rumbling in the distance. The path was muddy from last night’s rain, but it felt good to walk—cold air pinching my cheeks while I tried to snap a photo that’d do that blue ice justice. Inside the visitor center, there was this faint hum of excited voices and wet boots squeaking on the floor. I overheard a ranger explaining how bears come down for salmon runs; made me glance over my shoulder more than once.

Next up was Auke Bay for the whale watching part. The boat had these huge windows and honestly, I spent half my time pressed against one with binoculars glued to my face. When our captain cut the engine and everyone went quiet, you could hear water slapping against the hull—and then someone yelled “There!” A humpback surfaced right beside us, so close you could see barnacles on its back. The whole boat let out this weird mix of gasps and laughter. I still think about that sound—the hush before a whale appears. It’s strange what sticks with you.

Afterwards we were all hungry (maybe it was sea air?), so heading to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake felt perfect. You smell alder wood smoke before you even see the grills—there’s something about wild Alaskan salmon cooked outside that makes regular fish seem kind of sad by comparison. We sat under tall trees with plates piled high—someone next to me said they’d never tasted potatoes so creamy. There was live music too; nothing fancy, just a guy with a guitar who played old folk songs while kids roasted marshmallows over the fire. Didn’t expect to feel so relaxed after all that excitement but… yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching, Salmon Bake

• Transfer to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
• Explore exhibits and watch bears
• Travel to Auke Bay for whale watching
• Whale watching cruise with panoramic views
• Enjoy Gold Creek Salmon Bake meal
• Roast marshmallows and visit trading post
• Stroll to Salmon Creek waterfall

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier?

The tour includes time at Mendenhall Glacier plus other activities; plan for several hours total.

Is whale watching guaranteed on this Juneau tour?

Yes, there is a whale sighting guarantee or partial refund for adults and children if no whales are seen.

Are meals included during the tour?

Yes, an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring wild Alaskan salmon is included at Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Can children join this day trip from Juneau?

Yes, children of all ages can join but those under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is transportation provided from my hotel or cruise ship?

Yes, pickup is included; provide your ship or hotel name when booking.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most fitness levels.

What happens if weather cancels part of the trip?

If canceled due to poor weather conditions, you can choose another date or get a full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or cruise ship in Juneau, entry to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center with time to explore Nugget Falls trails, a guided whale watching cruise in Auke Bay (binoculars provided), and an all-you-can-eat wild Alaskan salmon bake in the rainforest—with live music and plenty of time to relax before returning whenever you’re ready.