Mount Juneau Trail
A challenging, rewarding hike offering stunning panoramic views of Juneau and its surrounding natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Mount Juneau Trail
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, rewarding hike offering stunning panoramic views of Juneau and its surrounding natural beauty.
"The view was worth all the pain I went through at 60 years old."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating wet, rocky, and steep terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended.
🌧️ Pack for All Weather
Juneau weather changes rapidly. Bring rain gear, layers, and be prepared for fog.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Mount Juneau Summit
Breathtaking vistas of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and surrounding mountains await those who reach the top.
Waterfall Crossings
Mid-trail
Challenging but rewarding creek crossings with beautiful waterfalls, a unique feature of this hike.
Alaskan Ridge Trail
Connecting Trail
A scenic route that offers stunning alpine scenery and connects to the Mount Juneau Trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Weather
Hiking Experience & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating wet, rocky, and steep terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended.
🌧️ Pack for All Weather
Juneau weather changes rapidly. Bring rain gear, layers, and be prepared for fog.
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
Trail can be challenging to follow. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful, especially in fog.
🤝 Hike with a Buddy
Recommended for safety, especially when crossing waterfalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating wet, rocky, and steep terrain. Waterproof boots are highly recommended.
🌧️ Pack for All Weather
Juneau weather changes rapidly. Bring rain gear, layers, and be prepared for fog.
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
Trail can be challenging to follow. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful, especially in fog.
🤝 Hike with a Buddy
Recommended for safety, especially when crossing waterfalls.
💧 Be Ready for Water Crossings
Two waterfalls require crossing; they can be challenging and feel a bit dangerous.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers praise the Mount Juneau Trail for its breathtaking summit views, calling the scenery worth the challenging ascent. The unique waterfall crossings are noted as a memorable, albeit potentially tricky, part of the experience. Some find it difficult, especially at older ages, and recommend going with a companion.
"A long and beautiful trail worth checking out. I was not able to finish this trail as it was raining hard. This trail is definitely for expert hikers as there are two waterfalls you have to cross which feels a little dangerous. It was a great experience and I saw such beautiful views that were breathtaking. I would recommend this hike if you go with someone."
Kaci Hernandez Kluesner
"The view was worth all the pain I went through at 60 years old, and I relaxed for an hour after a two and a half hour hike up."
Kevin Williams
"It was bit hard but view was worth it."
yogesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Juneau Trailhead is accessible from downtown Juneau. It branches off the Perseverance Trail about a mile from its start. Many visitors access Perseverance Trail from the end of 4th Street.
Parking can be limited in downtown Juneau, especially during peak cruise ship season. Consider using public transportation or walking from your cruise ship if possible.
Taxis and rideshares are available in Juneau, but they may drop you at the start of Perseverance Trail, requiring a walk to the Mount Juneau Trail junction.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead, you can take local buses to downtown Juneau and then walk to the Perseverance Trail.
Perseverance Trail is typically accessed from the end of 4th Street in downtown Juneau. It's a well-known starting point for many local hikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mount Juneau Trail is a public trail and does not have an entrance fee. It's a free hiking experience.
The trail is open year-round, but accessibility and safety can vary significantly with seasons and weather. Summer months offer the best conditions.
No advance booking is required for the Mount Juneau Trail as it's a public hiking trail.
Generally, no special permits are required for day hiking on the Mount Juneau Trail. However, always check with local authorities for any updated regulations.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Mount Juneau Trail but must be kept on a leash. Be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 2.5 to 5 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the summit. Some hikers take longer to relax and enjoy the views.
This trail is considered difficult due to its steep ascents, rocky terrain, and challenging waterfall crossings. It's best for experienced hikers.
You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island, and the surrounding mountains.
There are no facilities on the Mount Juneau Trail. Be sure to carry all the water and snacks you need.
Yes, it's possible to get lost, especially in foggy conditions. Using a navigation app like AllTrails is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. The areas around the waterfall crossings also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light, but be prepared for changing weather conditions that can create dramatic, moody shots.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive landscapes and panoramic views from the summit.
Use a tripod and a slower shutter speed to create a silky, smooth effect for the water. Be mindful of the wet and slippery conditions around the falls.
The biggest challenges are the unpredictable weather (rain, fog) and the rugged terrain, which requires careful footing while handling camera gear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for more accessible nature experiences in Juneau, consider visiting the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls.
💪 Experienced Hikers
Consider extending your hike by exploring the Alaskan Ridge Trail, which offers further stunning alpine scenery.
+1 Ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain protection, and navigation tools, to make the most of this demanding but beautiful trek. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The challenging waterfall crossings also present fantastic opportunities for creative shots, especially if you can achieve a silky water effect with a slower shutter speed. Be prepared for the unpredictable Alaskan weather, which can create moody, atmospheric conditions ideal for dramatic photography.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Remember to prioritize safety while shooting, as the terrain can be slippery and uneven, particularly near the waterfalls. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mount Juneau Trail
The trail is not for the faint of heart and requires good physical condition and hiking experience. One of the most distinctive features of this trail is the necessity to cross two waterfalls. These crossings can be particularly tricky and feel a bit dangerous, especially after heavy rain.
Key Takeaways for Navigation:
* Start from Perseverance Trail.
* Be prepared for steep, rocky ascents.
* Utilize navigation apps like AllTrails.
* Trekking poles can aid stability during water crossings.
Experiencing Juneau's Unique Climate
The lush, green environment is a direct result of this frequent precipitation, creating a beautiful but sometimes challenging hiking experience. When planning your hike, checking the local weather forecast is essential, but it's also wise to pack for a variety of conditions. Layers are key, and waterproof outer gear is a must. Fog can roll in quickly, significantly reducing visibility and making the trail more difficult to navigate.
This atmospheric phenomenon, while potentially disorienting, can also create a mystical and dramatic landscape for photography. Tips for Dealing with Juneau's Weather:
* Always carry rain gear and waterproof layers.
* Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes.
* Be aware that fog can drastically reduce visibility.
* Embrace the moody atmosphere for unique photos.
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