Tucked away in the heart of Alaska’s capital, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers adventurers a unique chance to explore the stunning glacial landscapes surrounding Juneau. This intimate guided excursion transports guests to the serene waters of Mendenhall Lake, where they’ll paddle past towering icebergs and dramatic cliffs. With all necessary gear provided and complimentary snacks and beverages, the tour promises an unforgettable Alaskan experience. But the true magic lies in the journey itself, as participants enjoy the pristine natural wonders that await.
Key Points
- The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers a 4-hour guided excursion to explore Mendenhall Glacier and the surrounding landscapes.
- The tour is limited to 10 participants, providing an intimate experience guided by knowledgeable staff.
- Participants can expect to paddle past towering icebergs, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs during the 2-hour guided canoe tour.
- The tour includes roundtrip transportation, rain gear, and complimentary snacks and beverages.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back issues, and may be canceled due to high winds.
About the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Mendenhall Glacier and its surrounding landscapes.
During this 4-hour excursion, you will paddle past icebergs, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs while learning about the glacier’s history and features.
The tour is limited to just 10 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
With a small group of just 10 participants, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers an intimate and personalized experience in Alaska’s glacial wilderness.
With knowledgeable guides, scenic photo ops, and included snacks and beverages, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour provides an unforgettable way to take in the natural beauty of Alaska’s glacial wilderness.
Looking for more options in Mendenhall Glacier? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights of the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
Canoeing on Mendenhall Lake offers visitors a chance to witness the grandeur of Alaska’s glacial landscapes up close. Paddle past towering icebergs, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs as you learn about the 3,000-year-old Mendenhall Glacier. Snap photos of the glacier’s impressive dimensions – 13 miles long, 0.5 miles wide, and up to 1,800 feet deep. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the 2-hour guided tour.
| Experience | Duration |
| — | — |
| Paddling | 2 hours |
| Safety Briefing | 30 minutes |
| Snacks and Beverages | 30 minutes |
| Transportation | 1 hour |
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers an immersive glacier experience unlike any other.
Detailed Itinerary of the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
The tour begins with a van ride from the Mt. Roberts Tramway building near the cruise pier.
The 30-minute journey leads to Mendenhall Lake. Upon arrival, participants receive a 30-minute safety briefing before embarking on the guided canoe tour.
For the next 2 hours, they’ll paddle past icebergs, waterfalls, and cliffs, taking in views of the 3,000-year-old Mendenhall Glacier.
Following the canoe excursion, guests can enjoy coffee, tea, and local snacks for 30 minutes.
Finally, the van transports them back to the starting point at the Mt. Roberts Tramway.
Gear and Inclusions for the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
Roundtrip transportation, rain gear, and sustenance are all included in the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour.
Participants receive a rain jacket, rain pants, and rain boots to stay dry. Paddling gloves and a dry bag are also provided.
Throughout the tour, bottled water, snacks, coffee, and tea are available. The tour doesn’t include glacier hiking.
Restrictions include a minimum age of 12 years, minimum weight of 90 lbs, and maximum weight of 240 lbs.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back problems or mobility issues.
The tour may be canceled due to high winds.
More Great Tours NearbyParticipant Restrictions and Weather Policy
Although the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour is suitable for most participants, there are a few restrictions in place.
The minimum age requirement is 12 years, and participants must weigh between 90 and 240 lbs. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with back problems or mobility issues.
Weather can also impact the tour – it may be canceled due to high winds, in which case you will receive a full refund.
Pricing and Booking Information
A single Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour costs $250.95 per person. The tour lasts 4 hours and is limited to 10 participants.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Transportation to and from the meeting point at the Mt. Roberts Tramway building near the cruise pier is included.
Participants will receive all necessary gear, such as rain jackets, pants, and boots, as well as snacks and beverages throughout the tour.
Certain restrictions apply, such as age and weight limits. The tour may be canceled due to high winds, with full refunds provided.
Getting to the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour begins with a 30-minute van ride from the Mt. Roberts Tramway building, near the cruise pier.
Guests gather at the meeting point and board the van for the scenic journey to Mendenhall Lake. Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of the towering Mendenhall Glacier.
Upon arrival, tour participants receive a safety briefing before embarking on the 2-hour guided canoe adventure.
After the paddling portion, guests can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and local snacks before the return van ride to the starting point.
What to Expect During the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
Once guests have arrived at Mendenhall Lake, the guided canoe tour begins with a safety briefing. Participants learn how to properly paddle and navigate the canoes.
Then, they set out onto the serene lake, surrounded by the majestic Mendenhall Glacier. For the next two hours, they’ll paddle past icebergs, waterfalls, and towering cliffs, taking in the stunning scenery.
Guides provide information about the glacier’s history and ecology. At the end of the tour, guests enjoy coffee, tea, and local snacks before the return van ride to the starting point.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Personal Flotation Device?
The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own personal flotation devices. All necessary gear, including rain jackets, rain pants, rain boots, paddling gloves, and dry bags, is provided by the tour operator.
Are Photography Drones Allowed During the Tour?
Photography drones aren’t allowed during the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits the use of drones for safety reasons and to maintain the peaceful experience for all participants. Guests should leave their drones at home.
Is There a Guide-To-Guest Ratio for the Canoe Tours?
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour has a group size limited to 10 participants, with a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:5. This ensures personalized attention and a safe, intimate experience on the lake.
Can I Request a Specific Canoe Partner?
Guests can’t request specific canoe partners. The tour operator assigns partners to balance group size and weight distribution. However, guests traveling together can request to be paired, if space allows.
Are There Any Age Limits for Children Participating?
The tour has a minimum age requirement of 12 years. Children under 12 are not permitted to participate. The maximum weight limit is 240 lbs, so the tour may not be suitable for some children.
Final Words
The Juneau Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Mendenhall Glacier. With its intimate group size, safety-focused approach, and comprehensive gear and amenities, this tour provides a truly unique Alaskan experience for adventurous travelers aged 12 and older. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking natural scenery or a unique outdoor activity, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour is an exceptional choice.
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