Mendenhall Glacier Tours in Juneau
Juneau sits at the edge of one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, and the tours that depart for Mendenhall Glacier reflect that proximity. Whether the goal is a canoe crossing, a full-day hike, or a combination of both, the options range from moderate half-day outings to six-hour treks covering up to seven miles of glacier terrain. Each tour listed here includes a professional guide and operates within the Tongass National Forest, the world's largest temperate rainforest.
Compare the Tours
Three distinct experiences are available for visitors planning a juneau mendenhall glacier tour, each with different durations, physical requirements, and pricing.
Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour
Price: from $359 per person | Duration: 2 hours
This tour combines paddling and hiking in a compact two-hour format. Guests suit up in provided gear, paddle a canoe across Mendenhall Lake, and then trek along the terminal moraine of Mendenhall Glacier with a trained guide. The route offers 360-degree views of the Tongass National Forest and multiple photo opportunities throughout.
Snacks and water are included, and a hot beverage is provided upon return. The minimum age is 12, with a weight range of 90 to 240 pounds. The tour is not recommended for guests with back or hip problems, and pregnant guests are not permitted to participate.
Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Hike
Price: From from $349 per person (plus tax) | Duration: 5.5 hours
Described as the most popular tour to visit Mendenhall Glacier, this 5.5-hour outing glides across Mendenhall Glacier Lake by canoe before continuing into the surrounding forest and glacier terrain. The extended duration allows for a more thorough exploration of the area compared to the two-hour option.
Guests must be at least 12 years old, weigh no more than 250 pounds (115 kg), and wear a minimum shoe size of Youth 2. A signed liability waiver is required. This tour requires a minimum of four participants to operate — reservations are subject to change or cancellation if that threshold is not met.
Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike
Price: From from $209 per person (plus tax) | Duration: 6 hours
The guided hike is the longest and most physically demanding option at six hours, covering a 6-to-7-mile round trip through the Tongass National Forest and along Mendenhall Glacier. Hiking shoes with ankle support are mandatory, and guests should be prepared for the full mileage before booking.
The minimum age drops to 10 years old on this tour, making it accessible to slightly younger hikers. A signed liability waiver is required, and a minimum of four participants must be confirmed for the tour to run.
Choosing the Right Tour
| Tour | Duration | Price | Min Age | Key Format | Book Now |
|---|
| Ice Adventure Tour | 2 hours | from $359/person | 12 | Canoe + moraine hike | Book Now |
| Canoe Paddle & Hike | 5.5 hours | From from $349/person | 12 | Canoe + extended hike | Book Now |
| Guided Hike | 6 hours | From from $209/person | 10 | Hiking only, 6–7 miles | Book Now |
Guests with limited time or physical restrictions may find the two-hour Ice Adventure Tour the most practical fit. Those who want a full day on the glacier and are comfortable covering seven miles on foot will get the most depth from the Guided Hike. The Canoe Paddle & Hike sits between the two in both duration and price.