The 7 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences in Juneau
Juneau’s rugged coastlines and icy glaciers make it a perfect playground for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. Unlike many destinations where water-based adventures are limited to boats or sightseeing from a distance, Juneau offers intimate encounters with Alaska’s wild side. Paddling near massive glaciers, floating past swimming whales, or exploring remote fjords gives a rare perspective on this stunning landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, these experiences promise both awe and a good workout—sometimes at the same time.
What makes Juneau stand out is its combination of spectacular natural scenery and the accessibility of these adventures. With small-group tours and all-inclusives that cover gear, transportation, and local insights, you won’t need to worry about logistics. Read on to explore seven of the best canoe and kayak experiences, each offering its own unique flavor of Alaska adventure. For those interested in glacier views, whale encounters, or a mix of both, there’s something here to match your style.
1. Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike
Experience Mendenhall Glacier on this small-group shore excursion. It’s a blend of paddling, hiking, and jaw-dropping scenery. Starting from Juneau, you’ll travel by land and water, paddling across Mendenhall Lake toward the glacier, with views of icebergs, waterfalls, and cliffs that are truly stunning. The tour includes all gear—rain gear, boots, paddles—and even snacks to keep your energy up. The small-group setup ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of time to soak in the natural beauty and learn about the glacier’s rapid retreat.
The itinerary begins with transportation from your cruise port to the gear warehouse, followed by gear fitting and an orientation. Paddle across Mendenhall Lake, where blocks of ice calve into the water, then hop out for a short, rocky hike that gets you close-up views of the glacier face. Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the glacier’s environment and its shrinking size. The tour wraps up with de-gear and transportation back to town.
Reviews praise the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides Mel and Elle, with many noting how the glacier’s proximity makes this experience unforgettable. Arm-straining paddles and glacier views combine for an adventure that’s both intense and intimate.
Bottom Line: It’s perfect for travelers craving a hands-on glacier experience with a guided hike, and the all-inclusive setup makes it hassle-free.
2. Juneau Shore Excursion: Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure
This tour turns the typical whale-watching trip into an up-close paddling adventure. Starting with a boat ride up the Inside Passage, you’ll reach the Channel Islands State Marine Park, a well-known humpback whale feeding ground. Once there, you’ll switch from boat to kayak, paddling in the waters where whales are often seen surfacing and breaching just a few feet away. The tour includes all gear and a brief orientation.
What sets this apart is the opportunity to kayak alongside humpback whales—a rare chance for wildlife lovers to experience these giants close-up. The boat ride offers stunning views of glaciers, forests, and snow-capped peaks, making the entire day a feast for the eyes. Guides explain the ecosystem and the behaviors of whales, adding an educational element to the adventure.
Reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the chance to see whales in their natural environment. It’s a longer tour—around six hours—making it suitable for those eager for a comprehensive day of wildlife and wilderness.
Bottom Line: If spotting whales up close and paddling in their feeding grounds appeals to you, this tour offers an unbeatable mix of adventure and wildlife observation.
3. Norris Adventure: Seaplane, Paddle and Glacier Hike
For a true multi-sensory experience, Norris Adventure combines flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting—an Alaska triple threat. Starting with a scenic seaplane flight toward the Taku Inlet, you’ll land at Norris Glacier-fed lake, where guided hikes and paddle adventures await. After a short walk over the glacial terrain, you’ll be introduced to packrafting, a lightweight kayak that allows you to paddle across the lake’s icy waters.
This tour is perfect for those who want to see multiple aspects of Alaska’s wilderness in a single day. The flight offers panoramic views of glaciers and fjords, while the glacier hike provides an up-close look at the ice formations. The packraft section introduces a new way to experience the environment—small, nimble, and surprisingly stable.
With only six reviews, it’s a boutique experience that focuses on adventure-seekers and active travelers. Guides are experienced and enthusiastic, making sure everyone feels safe and confident during this high-octane day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a full-day, immersive Alaska adventure combining flight, land, and water.
4. Mendenhall Lake Kayak and Salmon Bake Adventure
A favorite for its mix of paddle, wildlife, and culinary delights, this tour combines a kayak trip on Mendenhall Lake with a fresh salmon bake. The tour includes all equipment and instruction, making it accessible even for first-timers. You’ll paddle close to the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, with ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
After paddling, you’ll indulge in a salmon feast featuring wild Alaska-caught salmon, along with other hot and cold dishes. The tour also offers a walk along the creek and a chance to pan for gold at a historical mine—adding a bit of history and local flavor to the day.
Reviews consistently highlight the friendly guides and the ease of paddling, with many saying it was a “spectacular” day. The combination of kayaking and a hearty meal makes this a well-rounded choice for families and casual adventurers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a combination of water activity, wildlife viewing, and food in a relaxed setting.
5. Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour
This shorter, family-friendly tour offers a 3.5-hour paddle exploring Mendenhall Lake in Tongass National Forest. It’s a more relaxed option, with a focus on wildlife watching and glacier views. Paddling in two-person kayaks, you’ll glide past the glacier, Nugget Falls, and possibly see wildlife like eagles or seals.
Guides help with gear and technique, making it perfect for beginners or those with limited time. The tour strikes a good balance between active exploration and scenic relaxation, with all equipment provided. Paddlers rave about the serene environment and the chance to see the glacier from a different angle.
Some reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and the stunning views, though a few wished for more historical context. Still, with a 4.0 rating and great reviews, it’s a dependable choice for a shorter, nature-focused paddle.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or newcomers wanting a taste of Alaska’s icy landscapes without a full-day commitment.
6. Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure Juneau
This tour offers a 6-hour experience combining boat and kayak excursions to see humpback whales in their feeding grounds. Starting from downtown Juneau, you’ll travel on a small boat to Channel Islands State Marine Park, then switch to kayaks to explore the waters where whales often surface nearby. The tour includes hassle-free pickup from hotels and central locations.
What makes this experience unique is the opportunity to kayak alongside whales—a rare chance for those eager to get closer to marine wildlife. The tour includes time on an island beach, where you can relax, explore tide pools, and enjoy snacks in a scenic setting. It’s a perfect match for adventure travelers who want an active day with abundant wildlife sightings.
The reviewer from the tour highlights the expertise and friendliness of the guides and the incredible opportunity to witness whales close up, even on a cloudy, rainy day. This trip is best suited for those comfortable with paddling and looking for an intimate wildlife encounter.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife lovers who want to combine boat travel with the thrill of kayaking in prime whale habitat.
7. Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour
This is the most popular tour for up-close glacier access—and for good reason. It boasts over a thousand reviews, all praising its value and experience. Starting with a convenient pickup from the cruise ship, you’ll spend four hours exploring Mendenhall Lake in a canoe, with two hours of paddling that bring you right to the glacier’s face.
The tour is ideal for first-time paddlers thanks to the controlled, mellow waters and comprehensive gear. Paddling in a canoe allows you to see icebergs, arctic cliffs, and the glacier itself from an entirely different perspective. The tour includes all equipment, rain gear, and hot beverages, making it comfortable regardless of the weather.
Reviewers describe it as “a highlight of the trip,” noting how close they got to the glacier—something most visitors only see from afar. The all-inclusive transportation simplifies logistics, making it a top choice for cruise travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an accessible, memorable glacier experience with excellent value and reliable reviews.
How to Choose the Right Canoe & Kayak Experience in Juneau
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a glacier-focused adventure with a short hike, the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike is ideal. For wildlife enthusiasts eager to kayak with whales, the Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure offers a memorable encounter. Budget-conscious travelers seeking a reliable glacier experience will find the Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour hard to beat.
For a multi-activity day, Norris Adventure combines flying, hiking, and paddle sports, but it’s best suited for active travelers willing to handle a packed schedule. The Salmon Bake and Kayak balances paddling with a delicious meal, great for families or food lovers. Lastly, the Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour offers a shorter, scenic paddle perfect for beginners or those with limited time.
Consider your fitness level, interest in wildlife versus glaciers, and how much time you want to dedicate. Booking early is wise, especially in the busy summer months, as these tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Juneau’s canoe and kayak tours cover a broad spectrum—from glacier paddles to whale encounters and multi-sport adventures. For an all-in-one tour with hiking and glacier views, the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike shines. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the Paddle with Whales for its close-up whale kayaking. And for pure glacier access at a good price, the Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe delivers.
Each offers a different way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty—whether you prefer a laid-back paddle, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or a mix of both. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable excursions. Whatever your choice, Juneau promises plenty of water-based adventures to match your style.