A close-up adventure with the Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip
Imagine stepping off your cruise ship onto a bus heading into the wilds of Juneau, with a pair of waterproof boots in hand and a sense of anticipation. For $209 per person, this 3.5-hour rafting excursion takes you from the city to the serene waters at the foot of the Mendenhall Glacier, where you’ll float around six miles of watercourse, weaving through gentle but exciting rapids and enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery. The trip is ideal for families, first-time rafters, and seasoned paddlers alike — everyone is welcome to enjoy the calm beauty and small thrill of whitewater.
What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to see Alaskan wildlife—bald eagles, seals, otters, and possibly bears—while floating in a stable, custom-made raft. The included riverside snacks, served after the float, add a tasty touch to the experience. Plus, the port transport makes logistics simple, removing the hassle of planning how to get to this natural wonder.
One thing to keep in mind is that rapids can vary depending on the weather, which might influence the level of excitement. Also, for those traveling with children, a minimum weight of 50 lbs is required for proper life jacket fit. If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic adventure that combines wildlife sightings, glacier views, and gentle rapids, this tour ticks many boxes.
This trip is best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, love nature, and appreciate knowledgeable guides who share fun facts and local stories. It’s especially appealing if you want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery in a manageable time frame.
Key Points
- Incredible scenery of the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding mountains
- Wildlife sightings such as eagles, seals, otters, and possibly bears
- Family-friendly activity with no prior experience needed, suitable for ages 12 and up
- Expert guides making safety a priority while sharing interesting facts
- Included snacks offer a nice break at the end of the float
- Weather-dependent experience—rapids and scenery can vary with conditions
An in-depth look at the Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip
Setting the scene: from land to water
Starting at the Mount Roberts Tramway meeting point, your journey begins with a scenic, narrated motor coach ride to Mendenhall Lake. Here, the landscape is as dramatic as you’d hope—towering mountains, lush forests, and the unmistakable sight of the glacier itself. The guides are seasoned professionals, ensuring that everyone is comfortable before hopping into the custom-made rafts designed for stability and safety.
What makes this part special? We loved the way the guides inject humor and local knowledge into the ride, making the trip feel personal and engaging. The anticipation builds as you gear up, knowing you’re about to float close to one of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers.
The float itself: a balance of tranquility and thrill
Once on the water, your guide takes the helm, expertly steering the raft down the Mendenhall River. For about two hours, you’ll glide in a relaxed manner, soaking in the scenery and watching for wildlife. The river meanders past dense forests and rugged mountains, with glacier views always in the background.
We found the rapids to be a highlight — classified as Class II and III, meaning they’re lively enough to add excitement without feeling out of control. As one reviewer mentioned, “most of the food was gone by the time we got to it,” but here, the real treat is the experience itself. The guides do a great job of keeping everyone safe and entertained, making sure even beginners feel comfortable.
Wildlife and scenery: why it’s worth doing
Expect to see bald eagles, often soaring overhead or perched in trees, along with seals and otters that sometimes pop up along the banks. In fact, one traveler noted they “saw salmon and eagles,” which adds a layer of authenticity to your Alaskan adventure. The backdrop of the glacier and surrounding mountains creates countless photographic moments, whether you’re a seasoned shutterbug or just want to capture the moment for your memories.
Post-ride: snacks and reflections
After the float, everyone gathers at a scenic riverside spot for Alaskan-style snacks, a thoughtful touch that rounds out the trip. Most reviews speak highly of the food, with one mentioning, “great snacks and a very nice touch.” It’s a chance to chat with your fellow adventurers and reflect on the experience before heading back.
Logistics and considerations
The entire experience is about 3.5 hours, including transportation, gearing up, the float, and snacks. Transportation is included from the Mount Roberts Tramway, simplifying logistics. The maximum group size is about 100 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate yet lively.
While most travelers find the trip perfectly suited to their energy levels, weather can impact the experience. If it’s rainy or windy, the scenery still impresses, but the level of rapids may be affected. Children as young as 12 are welcome, provided they meet the weight requirement of 50 lbs and are accompanied by an adult, making this a nice family outing.
Who will love this trip?
If you’re after a relaxed yet active adventure, enjoy wildlife, and want to see the glacier from a different perspective, this tour fits the bill. It’s also an excellent choice for those with limited time in Juneau but still want a meaningful connection to the natural environment.
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Value and overall impression
At $209, the tour offers a memorable experience with a significant focus on safety, scenery, and wildlife. Many reviewers felt it was “worth it,” especially with guides like Javier and Kyle, who made the experience enjoyable and engaging. The included snacks and transportation add convenience, and the Worry-Free policy provides peace of mind in case of weather-related cancellations.
While some reviews mention delays or logistical hiccups, these seem outliers rather than the norm. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the fun of floating past eagles and glaciers.
This tour presents excellent value for money when you consider the stunning views, wildlife encounters, and the rare experience of floating close to a glacier — all in a manageable, family-friendly format.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from the Mount Roberts Tramway is included, making it easy to reach the starting point without extra fuss.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No, all experience levels are welcome. The guide will ensure everyone feels safe, and the rapids are classified as Class II and III, suitable for beginners and more experienced alike.
What should I wear?
Bring warm layers, waterproof gear (which is provided if needed), and sturdy shoes. The tour provides heavy-duty rubber boots, pants, and ponchos, but layering helps stay comfortable in changing weather.
Are children allowed?
Yes, children 12 and older can participate, provided they weigh at least 50 lbs and are accompanied by an adult. Children 13-17 require parental consent if unaccompanied.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to spot bald eagles, seals, otters, and possibly bears. Many travelers have praised the abundant wildlife sightings along the river.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The guides monitor weather closely to ensure safety.
Final thoughts
The Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip marries stunning scenery with accessible adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing, glacier vistas, and a bit of excitement in a half-day trip. The guides’ expertise and the scenic boat ride make it a genuine highlight of any Juneau visit.
If you love nature, wildlife, and the idea of floating past glaciers with a good dose of local storytelling, this tour will leave you with memories that last, along with some great photographs. It’s a wonderful way to escape the crowds and enjoy Alaska’s rugged beauty from a comfortable, safe vantage point.
For those who prize authentic experiences and excellent value, this float trip stands out among Juneau’s many shore excursions. Just be prepared for the possibility of weather-related changes, and you’ll find it an enjoyable, memorable adventure.
Summary:
The Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip offers a scenic, wildlife-rich adventure suitable for all ages and experience levels. It combines stunning glacier views, gentle rapids, and knowledgeable guides to create a memorable half-day outing — ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging Alaskan experience.