Mendenhall Glacier
A majestic 13-mile-long river of ice in Juneau, Alaska, offering stunning views, accessible trails, and unique ice cave adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Mendenhall Glacier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 13-mile-long river of ice in Juneau, Alaska, offering stunning views, accessible trails, and unique ice cave adventures.
"It's unreal what mother nature has to offer."
💰 Budget-Friendly Transport
Take the local bus ($2 cash) to save on expensive tours. Walk 1.5 miles to the glacier.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's cold near the glacier, even in summer. Bring a jacket and wear comfortable shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nugget Falls
Near Mendenhall Glacier
A stunning waterfall cascading near the glacier's edge. Perfect for photos and a short, accessible hike.
Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves
Mendenhall Glacier
Explore the mesmerizing blue ice caves formed within the glacier. A truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Helicopter Tour
Above Mendenhall Glacier
Soar above the Juneau Icefield for unparalleled views of the glacier and surrounding wilderness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Glacier's Dynamic Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Budget-Friendly Transport
Take the local bus ($2 cash) to save on expensive tours. Walk 1.5 miles to the glacier.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's cold near the glacier, even in summer. Bring a jacket and wear comfortable shoes.
📸 Nugget Falls Photo Op
The Nugget Falls Trail offers epic glacier and waterfall shots. Don't miss it! +1
🚁 Helicopter Views
For breathtaking aerial views, book a helicopter tour. Window seats are best!
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Budget-Friendly Transport
Take the local bus ($2 cash) to save on expensive tours. Walk 1.5 miles to the glacier.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's cold near the glacier, even in summer. Bring a jacket and wear comfortable shoes.
📸 Nugget Falls Photo Op
The Nugget Falls Trail offers epic glacier and waterfall shots. Don't miss it! +1
🚁 Helicopter Views
For breathtaking aerial views, book a helicopter tour. Window seats are best!
💧 Taste Glacier Water
Experience the refreshing taste of 200-year-old glacier water. +1
🐻 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for bald eagles and black bears near the glacier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mendenhall Glacier for its breathtaking beauty and accessibility, with Nugget Falls being a particular highlight. While the glacier's rapid recession is noted, the sheer scale and unique blue ice formations leave a lasting impression. Some find the cost of tours high, but budget-friendly public transport options are available.
"Gorgeous views and a must walk trail at Nugget Trail! Very easy and accessible walk - flat the entire time - 15 minutes one way. Stunning picturesque scenes."
Jaja C
"Mendenhall Great glacier view and waterfall.
Tips: If you don’t wanna pay 50$ per person for transportation you can still use public transport for 2$ per adult and 1$ per children and hop off for a 1.5 miles walk to reach the area on line 8(30 mins drive)."
xavier montels
"Breath taking. There is a reason why this is the number one tourist destination in Juneau. Loved the walk out to Nugget falls. Unfortunately the glacier is receding rapidly."
Bryan Cook
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many cruise lines offer Mendenhall Glacier excursions. For a budget-friendly option, take the local bus (Line 8) for $2 cash, which takes about 30 minutes and a 1.5-mile walk to the glacier. +1
Yes, there are shuttle services available from the cruise port. The local bus is a popular and affordable choice. +1
While Uber might be available in Juneau, cell service at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is unreliable, making booking a return trip difficult.
The drive from downtown Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier is approximately 12 miles and takes about 20-30 minutes by car or bus.
Yes, there is parking available at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, though it can fill up during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area itself does not have an entrance fee. However, some specific tours or activities may have associated costs.
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center typically operates daily during the summer months, with reduced hours in the shoulder seasons. It's best to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for current hours.
It's highly recommended to book popular Mendenhall Glacier tours, especially helicopter tours, in advance, particularly during peak cruise season.
Yes, hiking the trails like the Nugget Falls Trail and exploring the visitor center area are free activities. +1
The best way to see Mendenhall Glacier depends on your interests and budget. Options range from self-guided visits using public transport to guided hikes, helicopter tours, and even ice cave adventures. +2
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Nugget Falls Trail is a must-do for its stunning waterfall views right next to the glacier. The West Glacier Trail offers more adventurous hiking. +2
Guided glacier treks and ice adventure tours allow you to safely walk on the Mendenhall Glacier. Independent glacier hiking is not recommended due to safety concerns.
Visitors often spot bald eagles soaring overhead. Black bears are also known to frequent the area, especially near Steep Creek. +1
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and some paved trails, like the one to Nugget Falls, are generally accessible. Check with the visitor center for specific accessibility information.
The visitor center offers educational exhibits about glaciers, local wildlife, and the Tongass National Forest. It also provides great views of the glacier.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a gift shop and snack bar at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. For more dining options, you'll need to return to Juneau.
Yes, picnicking is allowed in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery and save money.
📸 📸 Photography
Nugget Falls offers iconic shots with the waterfall and glacier. The visitor center also provides excellent vantage points. +1
Yes, the blue ice caves are incredibly photogenic, but access is often dependent on conditions and may require a guided tour.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mendenhall Glacier: Beyond the Visitor Center
For an unparalleled perspective, consider a helicopter tour that lands you directly on the glacier or the Juneau Icefield.
These experiences, while pricier, are often described as once-in-a-lifetime adventures.It's important to remember that Mendenhall Glacier is a dynamic environment. In summer, meltwater can accumulate in Suicide Basin, leading to potential glacial outburst floods.
Always check local conditions and heed any safety advisories. Despite its constant change, the Mendenhall Glacier remains a powerful and awe-inspiring natural spectacle, offering a profound connection to the raw beauty of Alaska.Getting to Mendenhall Glacier on a Budget
This budget-friendly transportation allows you to explore at your own pace. Once you arrive, the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area itself is free to enter. You can enjoy the visitor center exhibits, walk the accessible trails like the one to Nugget Falls, and simply soak in the magnificent views of the glacier. However, a crucial tip for those using public transport is to plan your return trip in advance. Cell service at the visitor center can be unreliable, making it difficult to call for a ride or book a return bus ticket on the spot.
Ensure you have a plan for your journey back to Juneau to avoid any last-minute stress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit