Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike

If you’re dreaming of Alaskan adventures, a guided hike through the Tongass National Forest with views of the iconic Mendenhall Glacier is a choice that promises both scenic beauty and a good dose of physical activity. While I haven’t personally tackled this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this experience offers something special for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning panoramic views of the glacier, the chance to explore the world’s largest temperate rainforest, and the opportunity to learn about the glacier’s wilderness from knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of water and snacks ensures you stay energized during the hike—an essential when tackling 7 miles of rugged terrain.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a strenuous hike. The terrain can be steep, uneven, and rocky, requiring good balance and sure-footedness. This tour isn’t suited for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. Still, for active travelers craving an authentic outdoor experience, it’s well worth considering. Perfect for those who enjoy physical activity, breathtaking landscapes, and learning about Alaska’s wilderness firsthand.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Hike through the world’s largest temperate rainforest, surrounded by towering Sitka spruce and hemlock trees.
• Spectacular Views: Reach a final ridge with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the receding Mendenhall Glacier and its deep blue crevasses.
• Expert-Guided Adventure: Guides are knowledgeable, providing insights into the glacier’s ice age history and the forest’s ecology.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Gear, waterproof clothing, trekking poles, snacks, and water are included, making the trek hassle-free.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of attention from your guide.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: The hike covers about 7 miles with an elevation gain of 800 feet, demanding good balance and stamina.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why this tour stands out

The Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike offers travelers a chance to see one of Alaska’s most iconic sights while thoroughly engaging with nature. The six-hour itinerary ensures enough time to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. From the comfort of a passenger van, you’ll be transported from downtown Juneau or your hotel in the Mendenhall Valley to the trailhead, making the logistics smooth and straightforward.

The hike through Tongass National Forest is the core experience—walking among giants, navigating beaver ponds, and climbing gentle rock scrambles. As one reviewer noted, “Very good, great management,” highlighting the professionalism of the guides. Another shared, “It was truly amazing,” which speaks to the awe-inspiring views and authentic wilderness experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transportation: The tour begins with a convenient pickup at a designated meeting point near the cruise docks, or from major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley. This takes away any hassle of planning transport and allows you to relax before the adventure begins.

The Forest Hike: The trail starts with a walk through Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres of lush, temperate rainforest. Walking beneath towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees, you’ll get a real sense of the scale and age of this forest. Guides will share insights about the flora and fauna, making the walk both educational and engaging.

Snack Stop: About halfway through, you’ll pause to enjoy a heartily packaged snack. It’s a simple, thoughtful touch that keeps energy levels high, especially since this is a physically demanding hike.

Reaching the Final Ridge: As the trail becomes narrower and less defined, your guide will lead you through denser vegetation, across beaver ponds, and over rocky patches. The reward for your effort is reaching the ridge, where the glacier’s jagged face is on full display. From here, you’ll witness the glacial icefalls, the deep blue crevasses, and the overall scale of this ancient ice mass.

Return Journey: After soaking in the views, you’ll descend via the West Glacier Trail, returning to the van for the ride back to your starting point. The entire expedition lasts around six hours, including transportation and breaks.

The True Value of the Experience

Considering the $233 price tag, this tour offers a comprehensive, guided outdoor adventure in one of Alaska’s most spectacular landscapes. The inclusion of gear—waterproof clothing and trekking poles—removes the hassle of packing and ensures you’re prepared for the often unpredictable weather.

The small group size (limited to 12) means you’ll get personalized attention and meaningful interaction with your guide, which enhances the educational aspect of the trip. From the reviews, guides are praised for their knowledge and management, making the experience smooth and enjoyable even when navigating tricky sections of the trail.

This tour is a prime choice for active travelers who want more than just a sightseeing bus ride—who crave a real connection with Alaskan wilderness and enjoy working their legs while soaking in views that photos simply can’t capture fully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re in good physical shape, love outdoor adventures, and want to see the glacier up close on foot, this experience is perfect. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy a challenge and want a more authentic experience than just viewing the glacier from a boat or viewpoint.

However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone with back, respiratory, or heart problems will want to consider other options, as this hike demands sure-footedness and stamina. It’s not suitable for children under 10, so families should plan accordingly.

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Final Thoughts

This guided trail hike offers a genuine Alaskan adventure—combining challenging terrain, stunning views, and insightful guides into one memorable six-hour tour. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature and witness the raw beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier while enjoying the lush greenery of the Tongass National Forest.

For travelers who love active exploration and want to get away from crowded viewpoints, this experience delivers both in spades. The included gear and small group size make it accessible and comfortable for those prepared for a bit of a workout.

If your goal is to stand on a ridge overlooking shimmering ice and learn about wilderness from passionate guides, this tour is a well-rounded choice that offers excellent value for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from downtown Juneau or major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley, making logistics simple.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and waterproof gear. The tour provides waterproof clothes, trekking poles, water, and snacks.

How strenuous is the hike?
The hike covers about 7 miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. It’s steep, uneven, and rocky, requiring good balance and stamina. Not suitable for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels.

Will I see the glacier up close?
You will get a close-up view from the final ridge, where the jagged face of the glacier is visible along with deep crevasses and icefalls.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

Can children participate?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 10 due to its strenuous nature.

In essence, this guided hike is perfect for adventurous souls eager to explore Alaska’s wilderness authentically. With expert guides, stunning vistas, and all the necessary gear included, it’s a memorable way to experience the majesty of the Mendenhall Glacier beyond just a photo from a viewpoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: