Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure

Review of the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure

If you’re heading to Juneau and looking for a way to see the Mendenhall Glacier beyond the usual tourist spots, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure promises a unique blend of scenery, activity, and local insight. While I haven’t personally paddled my way through this experience, a detailed look into traveler reviews and tour features highlights what makes this tour a memorable choice — or a challenge, depending on your fitness level.

What really catches our eye about this experience? First, the opportunity to get up close to the glacier in a traditional Tlingit-style canoe is certainly special. Second, the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude consistently shine through, making the trip both educational and fun. And third, the stunning views of icebergs, Nugget Falls, and the glacier face are the kinds of sights you’ll want to cherish with your camera.

However, it’s important to note that the tour is not for everyone — some reviews mention the physical demands and the crowded conditions. If you’re not comfortable paddling or prefer a more relaxed sightseeing trip, this may be less ideal. Still, for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind getting a bit wet and active, this tour should suit most active travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience.

Who is this experience for?

This canoe adventure is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, curious about Alaska’s natural beauty, and eager to combine outdoor activity with sightseeing. It’s great for families with kids over 12, adventurous groups, or individuals who want a different perspective of the glacier away from bus tours.

Key Points

• Close-up glacier views in a traditional canoe offer a unique perspective.
• Guides like Trent, Malachai, and Tyler are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• The experience involves paddling, so some effort and moderate fitness are required.
• Includes all necessary gear, snacks, and transportation, making logistics hassle-free.
• Crowd size can vary, but reviews suggest that group experience is generally enjoyable.
• Weather can influence the tour, so dress appropriately and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure

The Itinerary: A Balance of Nature and Activity

This half-day adventure typically begins with a pickup from the Mount Roberts Tramway or the cruise ship dock in Juneau. The transfer to Mendenhall Lake takes roughly 30 minutes, during which drivers or guides often share interesting insights about Juneau’s scenery and local history. It’s an easy, comfortable start that sets the tone for the day.

Once at the lake, you’ll be handed rain gear, life jackets, and boots — a thoughtful touch that makes paddling in Alaskan weather much more manageable. The traditional Tlingit-style canoe is about 28 feet long and designed for stability, but you should expect to do some paddling. Many reviews highlight that the paddling can be physically demanding, especially for those unaccustomed to rowing, with some describing it as a “moderate workout.”

The main highlight is navigating across Mendenhall Lake, with its floating icebergs and breathtaking backdrop of the glacier. Guides like Trent and Tyler are often singled out for their knowledge and ability to make the experience fun, providing safety instructions and commentary along the way. You will get close enough to see the massive face of the glacier and glide past Nugget Falls, which plunges 377 feet into the lake. Several reviews note that permits restrict how close you can get to the glacier, but the vantage points are still extraordinary.

The Scenic Highlights: Glacier, Falls, and Wildlife

Expect to see icebergs, glaciers, waterfalls, and perhaps even some local wildlife — eagles, seals, and occasionally bears or goats, according to reviews. One visitor mentioned spotting eagles and seals while paddling, which adds an extra element of wildlife watching often missed in larger tours.

The highlight for many is the close-up view of Nugget Falls, which offers perfect photo opportunities. One reviewer appreciated that the guide allowed time for a brief walk near the falls, though some felt that time was limited, and others noted the tour was sometimes cut short due to logistical constraints.

Getting close to the glacier face is tightly controlled by the US Forest Service, making permits necessary for a more intimate viewing experience. This controlled access makes the experience feel more exclusive — a feature that many travelers value highly.

The Return and Post-Adventure Snacks

After paddling back across the lake, usually with some group effort, you’ll disembark to enjoy Alaskan-style snacks on shore. Many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and the thoughtful inclusion of snacks like warm apple cider, which help warm you up after the outdoor exertion. The tour then concludes with transportation back to Juneau, often with some funny stories and recommendations from the guides.

The Group Size and Paddling Dynamics

Group sizes tend to be around 16-19 people, with reviews mentioning that some tours can feel crowded or less personalized when packed tightly. While the canoe is stable, some reviewers have expressed that rows can be crowded, and paddling requires coordination, especially with larger groups. A few reviews point out that some trips are more physically demanding than expected, particularly for older guests or those with shoulder issues.

Price and Value

At $259 per person, the tour is a bit of an investment, but most reviews suggest it’s worth it for the quality of views, the unique experience, and the expert guides. Including all equipment, snacks, and transportation, it offers convenience and peace of mind.

Some travelers, however, have expressed concern over the crowded canoe conditions and the cost relative to the experience. One reviewer was disappointed with the lack of close glacier proximity and felt the experience was more strenuous than anticipated, suggesting it’s better suited for those in good physical shape.

The Challenges and Considerations

While many rave about the adventure, some reviews point out the physical effort required. If you’re not comfortable paddling or have mobility issues, this tour might be less suitable. It’s also weather-dependent; tours can be canceled if conditions are unsafe, with options for a different date or full refund offered.

A few travelers have been frustrated by last-minute cancellations or feeling squeezed into crowded boats, which can diminish the experience. It’s important to compare the group size and weather forecast before booking.

The Verdict: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re seeking an authentic and active way to see Mendenhall Glacier, this canoe adventure can be a fantastic choice. The stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to paddle a traditional vessel elevate it beyond a simple sightseeing trip. The experience offers a rare, close-up view of the glacier, framed by icebergs and waterfalls, with the added bonus of wildlife sightings and cultural insights.

However, this is not a laid-back sightseeing cruise. Expect to work a little, especially if paddling isn’t your thing, and be prepared for possible crowding or weather disruptions. For fit, outdoor-loving travelers who want to combine adventure with natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes.

Who should book this?

• Active travelers comfortable with paddling and outdoor conditions
• Families with children over 12, seeking a unique wildlife and glacier experience
• Those interested in cultural elements and traditional Alaskan vessels
• Travelers who value guides’ expertise and engaging commentary
• Visitors seeking a memorable, close-up glacier encounter

Who might want to skip this?

• Guests with mobility issues or shoulder problems
• Those seeking a relaxed sightseeing experience
• Travelers on a very tight schedule or with a limited budget
• Anyone not prepared for outdoor weather and physical effort

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 12 and over can participate, but they should be comfortable with paddling and outdoor conditions. Children 13-17 need parental consent if unaccompanied.

What should I wear?
The tour provides rain gear and boots, but it’s recommended to dress in layers and bring gloves. Weather can be unpredictable, so waterproof and warm clothing is advisable.

How strenuous is the paddling?
Many reviews mention that paddling requires a moderate effort, especially over the approximately 3.5 miles total. It’s suitable for most active people but less so for those with shoulder issues or limited stamina.

What wildlife might I see?
Eagles, seals, goats, salmon, and possibly bears are spotted from time to time, making the trip a bit of a wildlife safari as well.

How close will I get to the glacier?
Permits restrict how close you can approach, but guides typically get you close enough to see the glacier’s face and enjoy stunning views of Nugget Falls.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the tour relies on good weather, and poor conditions will lead to cancellation. You’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund if that happens.

Final Thoughts

The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure offers a rare chance to see one of Alaska’s most iconic sights from a truly different perspective. It combines outdoor activity, cultural insight, and breathtaking scenery into a roughly four-hour experience that appeals to the adventurous spirit.

While it’s not a relaxed boat tour — expect paddling, potential crowds, and variable weather — the chance to get close to the glacier and witness Nugget Falls in person makes it worthwhile. Guides like Trent, Tyler, and Leann are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding value to the adventure.

If you’re in decent shape, love nature, and want a taste of traditional Alaskan culture, this trip is a winner. Just prepare for the physical effort, check the weather forecast, and go with an open mind. The views, wildlife, and memories will be worth it.

Note: Always check the latest details before booking, especially weather conditions and group size, to ensure this adventure matches your expectations and physical comfort level.