Juneau: Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour Review
Imagine paddling across Mendenhall Lake, with the towering Mendenhall Glacier looming just a stone’s throw away, icebergs drifting lazily by, and waterfalls cascading from rugged cliffs. For just under four hours and at a cost of $251 per person, this guided canoe trip offers an intimate encounter with one of Alaska’s most iconic natural sights. You’ll meet your guide near the cruise pier, hop into a comfortable minivan, and head into the Tongass National Forest, home to this colossal glacier.
Two aspects of this tour stand out immediately. First, the guided expertise—our guides make the experience both safe and insightful, sharing stories and facts that deepen our appreciation of the surrounding landscape. Second, the up-close views of the glacier from the canoe allow us to see icebergs and tiny waterfalls that you simply can’t get from a bus or boat.
One potential consideration? The weather can be unpredictable. While the tour provides top-quality rain gear and waterproof boots, wind and rain might make for a chilly trip. It’s important to be prepared for all conditions, especially if you’re sensitive to sudden weather changes in Alaska’s wild environment.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just a viewing from afar. If you’re comfortable paddling for two hours and love being in nature—especially with knowledgeable guides who can enrich your understanding—this experience will be right up your alley. It’s also suited to those eager for a personalized, small-group adventure rather than a crowded bus or cruise-ship excursion.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Paddle on Mendenhall Lake with close-up views of the glacier.
- Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Alaska.
- All Equipment Provided: Rain jackets, pants, waterproof boots, and dry bags are included.
- Flexibility & Safety: Small group size (up to 10) enhances safety and interaction.
- Time Well Spent: Around two hours of paddling in a total four-hour excursion.
- Weather Considerations: Tour may be canceled in high winds, so flexibility is key.
An In-Depth Look at the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
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The Journey Begins: Meeting Your Guides
Your adventure kicks off at the Mt. Robert’s Tram building, a familiar landmark near the cruise pier. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, with guides holding visible signage. From here, a comfortable minivan whisks you away to the edge of the Tongass National Forest, a vast wilderness where your journey truly begins.
This initial transport is an appreciated touch, especially after a morning of travel or sightseeing. It removes the hassle of logistics and allows you to focus on what’s ahead: a scenic paddle in a pristine setting. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of personal attention, and guides like Issy, Ed, and Ben have garnered praise for their warmth and expertise.
The Scenic Drive and Introduction to Nature
The drive itself offers a preview of the stunning scenery to come. As you approach the lake, the vastness of the forest and the distant icy giants begin to set the scene. Guides often share insights about Alaska’s ecology, explaining how glaciers like Mendenhall shaped the landscape over millennia. Their commentary enriches the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a mini-lesson in natural history.
Paddling: Getting Up Close and Personal with the Glacier
Once you arrive at the lake, you’re equipped with top-quality gear: rain jackets, rain pants, waterproof boots, paddling gloves, and a dry bag for your belongings. This attention to detail ensures you stay dry, comfortable, and focused on enjoying the scenery.
The paddle itself lasts about two hours, but don’t worry—it’s not relentless. Guides walk you through paddling basics and give you plenty of rest time, preventing exhaustion. The pace is leisurely enough for photography and simply soaking in the surroundings.
You’ll glide past icebergs, some small enough to be mistaken for floating sculptures, and see waterfalls pouring down steep cliffs, carved by the glacier’s retreat. The highlight is approaching the glacier face itself—an awe-inspiring spectacle of 3,000-year-old ice that is 13 miles long and up to 1,800 feet deep.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Glacier Up Close
Getting close enough to see the icebergs and witness the glacier’s sheer power is a rare privilege. Guides like Mariana and Gabriela have described guides like Ben and Meg as knowledgeable and fun, significantly enhancing the experience. As Mariana notes, Ben’s extensive knowledge about the glacier and surroundings made the trip more meaningful.
Unlike larger boat tours, paddling allows you to approach silently and smoothly, minimizing disturbance to the landscape. It’s an active way to connect with Alaska’s wilderness that many find deeply rewarding.
Snacks, Beverages, and Comfort
Throughout the tour, you’re offered snacks, bottled water, and hot beverages—a thoughtful touch on a day spent largely outdoors. The dry bag keeps your personal items safe and dry, so you can focus on the scenery without worry.
The Canceled Weather and Flexibility
Weather can be unpredictable in Juneau, particularly with katabatic winds—cold, fast-moving air descending from the glacier. Guides monitor conditions closely and may cancel if winds are too high, offering full refunds in such cases. This cautious approach underscores the importance of flexibility and understanding when booking outdoor adventures in Alaska.
Authenticity and Value
This tour offers a genuine connection to Alaska’s natural beauty. It’s not a staged experience but a chance to be in the landscape, paddling on Mendenhall Lake, with guides who are passionate and well-informed. Many reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and the “amazing” views, with some saying it was “the best option in town” for appreciating the glacier.
While it isn’t a glacier hike, the close-up perspective and immersion in nature make it a standout activity for those looking to do something active and authentic. The limited group size also helps you enjoy a more personal experience, with fewer crowds and more interaction.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re comfortable paddling for about two hours and love being outdoors in Alaska’s wild environment, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided insights and want a more intimate experience than a bus tour. However, it’s not ideal for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back or mobility issues due to the physical nature and weather considerations.
The Cost and What You Get
At $251 per person, this isn’t the cheapest activity in Juneau, but the value lies in the combination of personalized guidance, authentic outdoor experience, and close-up glacier views. All necessary gear is included, which reduces extra costs and hassle.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
This canoe trip is a fantastic option for travelers craving more than just a scenic overlook of Mendenhall Glacier. It’s ideal for those who want an active, informative, and intimate encounter with one of Alaska’s most celebrated landscapes. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it easier to connect with the environment and truly appreciate the glacier’s grandeur.
If you’re seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure that combines light physical activity with spectacular scenery, then this tour offers excellent value. It’s a chance to step away from crowds and experience Alaska in a quiet, contemplative way. Just remember to be prepared for weather variability and to paddle for two hours—if you’re up for that, you’ll find this experience memorable.
Who Should Book This Tour?
Travelers with a sense of adventure, an interest in wildlife and geology, and a desire for an authentic, close-up look at Mendenhall Glacier. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insights and small-group intimacy but may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transport from the meeting point near the cruise pier is included in the tour.
What gear is provided?
You’ll receive rain jackets, rain pants, waterproof boots, paddling gloves, and a dry bag for your personal items.
How long is the paddling?
The paddling lasts about two hours, within a total tour duration of approximately four hours.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled at or before the scheduled time if high winds or adverse weather conditions occur, with a full refund.
What’s the minimum age?
You need to be at least 12 years old and weigh between 90-240 pounds to participate.
Is this a hike on the glacier?
No, this is a canoe tour on Mendenhall Lake. It does not include glacier hiking.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers appropriate for outdoor activity—rain gear is provided, but bring an extra warm layer if needed.
In essence, this tour delivers a rare blend of active adventure and natural wonder, perfect for those eager to see Alaska’s glaciers from an entirely different perspective. It’s a memorable, intimate experience that combines stunning scenery, expert guides, and a sense of true wilderness—an experience you’re unlikely to forget.
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