Juneau is a paradise for hikers and trekkers. Its rugged terrain, towering glaciers, lush rainforests, and breathtaking coastal scenery make it one of the top destinations in Alaska for outdoor enthusiasts. What really makes Juneau stand out is the diversity of experiences available — whether you’re eager to paddle among icebergs, scramble up glacial terrain, or wander through temperate rainforests, there’s something here for every type of adventurer. We especially love tours that combine land and water, like the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike, which offers a unique perspective on Alaska’s icy wilderness.
If you’re not afraid of a challenge, the guided Mendenhall Glacier Hike takes you deep into the forest and onto glacier terrain, providing panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities. For those with limited time or cruise ship schedules, shore excursions like the Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike pack a lot into a half-day. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Rainforest & Waterfalls Trek offers an intimate look at Alaska’s temperate rainforest. Below, we detail each of these top-rated tours to help you find the perfect fit.
1. Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike Juneau
At number 1, this combo adventure combines paddling with a short hike, making it a standout for travelers who want a well-rounded experience. Over 5.5 hours, you’ll start by rowing a canoe across Mendenhall Lake, gliding past blue icebergs, waterfalls, and towering cliffs. No matter your paddling skill level, guides are there to help you navigate and make the most of the scenery. The tour includes round-trip transfers from select hotels, making logistics hassle-free.
What makes this tour unique is the chance to get close to the glacier from the water, a perspective that’s often missed in bus tours. Many reviewers mention how personalized attention and the camaraderie of a small group make for a memorable day. Highlights include wildlife sightings, the chance to paddle around floating ice, and a short hike to get even closer to the glacier’s dramatic face. Rain gear and boots are provided, so you stay dry even if the rain rolls in.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers looking for a mix of paddling, wildlife spotting, and glacier viewing in a family-friendly environment. Expect to work a bit, but also to return with unforgettable photos and stories.
2. Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike Juneau
At number 2, the Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike offers a more vigorous outdoor experience. It’s a 6-hour trek covering about 6-7 miles, beginning with a 3-mile walk through the Tongass National Forest — the largest temperate rainforest on earth. Your guide will lead you past beaver ponds, over rock scrambles, and onto exposed glacial terrain with commanding views of jagged ice formations and surrounding mountains.
What sets this tour apart is the level of detail guides share about the environment and glacier processes. Many reviews highlight guides like Julia and Ian, who are praised for their respectful approach and knowledge. The hike’s highlight is reaching the final ridge, where panoramic views of the glacier and peaks are truly breathtaking. This tour is best suited for fit travelers comfortable with some scrambling and uneven terrain.
Value for money is high, especially with hotel and cruise ship pickups included. The sense of accomplishment and close-up glacier views make this a worthwhile choice. Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding hike that will leave you with a real sense of Alaska’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a hands-on, immersive experience with stunning glacier vistas and a knowledgeable guide.
3. Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike
Number 3 on the list, this shore excursion combines canoeing and hiking into a well-paced half-day adventure. It begins with a scenic transfer to the gear warehouse, where equipment and rain gear are provided. Then, you paddle across Mendenhall Lake, surrounded by floating ice and waterfalls, before disembarking for a short hike near the glacier.
The tour’s small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a flexible experience. Many reviews note how well-organized and scenic the trip is, with paddling that’s challenging enough to feel rewarding yet accessible to most. The inclusion of snacks, park fees, and gear makes it excellent value, especially considering the hassle-free pickup and drop-off from the cruise port.
This tour is perfect if your time in Juneau is limited but you still want an authentic glacier experience with plenty of close-up views. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a mix of water and land activities, but not necessarily overnight trekking.
Bottom Line: A balanced, active option for cruise passengers wanting a memorable taste of Alaska’s icy wilderness without a full-day commitment.
4. Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
Number 4 features a half-day guided hike through the Tongass National Forest, designed for those in good physical shape. Starting with a scenic transfer via the Mount Roberts Tram, you’ll explore 3.5 miles of forest trail passing through towering Sitka spruce and hemlock, with opportunities to spot wildlife. As you approach the glacier, you’ll see icefall formations, blue crevasses, and Nugget Falls.
The guide’s expert commentary turns this into a learning experience, explaining everything from forest ecology to glacier recession. Many reviewers mention that the hike is challenging but rewarding, with some navigating steep sections and rocky terrain. The tour provides snacks, water, and all necessary gear, making it accessible for most physically active visitors.
While it’s a bit more strenuous than a typical walk, it offers extraordinary views and plenty of opportunities for photos. It’s well-suited for capable hikers wanting a deeper connection with the landscape.
Bottom Line: Great for fit travelers eager to combine forest walks, glacier views, and waterfalls into a single, rewarding trek.
5. Rainforest & Waterfalls Trek
Number 5 takes you into the Alaskan rainforest for a 5-hour adventure that emphasizes wildlife, waterfalls, and remote scenery. Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll explore off-the-beaten-path spots that are difficult to access on your own, focusing on the region’s ecosystem and native flora and fauna.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on learning and photography. Many reviews highlight how guides like Gene and Sherry point out small details that most visitors overlook, from tiny plants to bird sightings. The trek is described as moderate in difficulty, with some uneven terrain, but manageable for most hikers with a decent level of fitness. The tour includes stops at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center, adding educational depth.
This tour is perfect if you’re interested in nature study and want quiet, scenic spots away from crowds. The intimate, personalized experience makes it a favorite among nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an educational, wildlife-focused outing in a lush setting, with a moderate hike that includes waterfalls and glacier views.
6. Norris Adventure: Seaplane, Paddle and Glacier Hike
Number 6, the Norris Adventure, is a true all-in-one experience. Starting with a scenic seaplane flight over Juneau, you’ll land on a glacier-fed lake near Norris Glacier. After a short hike on the glacier’s surface, you’ll don packrafts to paddle across icy waters, guided by experts.
This tour combines flightseeing, glacier trekking, and paddling into just 5 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want to pack in multiple iconic Alaska activities. The guides are praised for their expertise and enthusiasm, and the experience of flying over Taku Inlet adds a spectacular perspective.
It’s the most expensive tour on the list but offers a comprehensive, once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s best for experienced outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with a tight schedule and multiple activities in one day.
Bottom Line: For adventurous travelers eager to combine flightseeing, glacier exploration, and paddling into a single day, this is the ultimate choice despite the higher price tag.
How to Choose Your Perfect Juneau Hiking or Trekking Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and schedule. If you love paddling and want a close-up glacier view, the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike offers a balanced mix. For a challenging, panoramic hike, the Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike delivers impressive terrain and glacier vistas. If your cruise time is limited, the shore excursions give you a good taste of the region’s rugged beauty. For those seeking a more educational or wildlife-heavy experience, the Rainforest & Waterfalls Trek provides both learning and exploration. Finally, for adventure junkies wanting a full-package day, the Norris Adventure combines multiple iconic Alaska activities into one unforgettable experience.
Book early, especially in June, as these tours are popular and fill up quickly. Consider your physical fitness and what kind of scenery excites you most—whether it’s towering glaciers, lush forests, or icy paddles — to choose the best adventure for your trip.
Juneau offers a remarkable range of hiking and trekking experiences that showcase Alaska’s wild, unspoiled beauty. Whether you prefer paddling across icy lakes, scrambling up glaciers, or wandering through rainforests, you’ll find a tour that matches your adventurous spirit. For most travelers, blending several of these options can make for an unforgettable Alaskan vacation—just remember to reserve early and gear up for the wilderness.