Best of Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

If you’re planning a visit to Juneau and want a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s natural beauty and wildlife, this tour promises to deliver. It combines iconic sights with authentic local flavors, making it a popular choice among travelers. While it’s not perfect—some guests find the schedule a little rushed—it’s a solid way to see the best of what Juneau has to offer in a single day.

Two features we really appreciate are the guaranteed whale sightings and the delicious salmon bake. These add a sense of adventure and genuine local flavor that make the experience memorable. One consideration? The tour duration, while quite comprehensive, may feel a bit quick at certain stops, especially if you’re a slow walker or want to linger longer.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife spotting, stunning scenery, and hearty, local cuisine. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides, and who want a hassle-free way of seeing Juneau’s highlights without renting a car or planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• The tour offers a well-rounded sampler of Juneau’s best attractions in about 6-7 hours.
• The whale-watching cruise comes with a sighting guarantee, adding confidence to this part of the trip.
• The visit to Mendenhall Glacier is informative, with opportunities to explore and learn from a ranger.
• The all-you-can-eat salmon bake provides a hearty, authentic Alaskan meal.
• The tour’s group size is capped at around 90 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with manageable crowds.
• Guides are praised for being engaging and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor Center

Your day begins with a narrated transfer to the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier. The Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and the chance to speak with a park ranger—ideal for deepening your understanding of this massive ice formation. We loved the way the guides share stories about the glacier’s changing face, which helps you grasp both its beauty and vulnerability.

Guests frequently comment on the glacier’s grandeur, even if many find the visit somewhat rushed. One reviewer noted, “The glacier was incredible — even with a close bear encounter,” emphasizing that even short visits can pack a punch. However, some felt the hour allocated was just enough for photos, exhibits, and a quick walk. If you’re eager for a longer exploration or want to hike to the waterfall, be prepared to move quickly or consider additional time on your own.

Whale Watching at Auke Bay

Next, you’re off to Auke Bay for the guaranteed whale-watching cruise. The boat, designed specifically for Juneau’s waters, features extra-large windows and an outdoor deck—perfect for spotting whales and sea lions. We particularly appreciate the sighting guarantee—if no whales appear, you get a refund, which adds peace of mind.

The timing is just right: about 2 hours 45 minutes on the water. Captains are seasoned experts at finding humpbacks, and many travelers rave about the experience. “We saw plenty of whales, including breaching and tail slaps,” one guest shared. The chance to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a highlight for many, and the fact that humpbacks return seasonally in such numbers makes sightings quite likely.

The Salmon Bake

After the cruise, it’s time for a true Alaskan feast at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake. Imagine the aroma of wild salmon grilling over alder wood—mouthwatering! The all-you-can-eat buffet includes salmon, chicken, potatoes, beans, rice pilaf, salads, and blueberry cake for dessert. Reviews highlight the delicious food and friendly atmosphere.

Guests often mention the lively setting, with the option to roast marshmallows over a campfire or stroll to Salmon Creek waterfall, adding a relaxed, outdoor vibe. For those who enjoy hearty, authentic meals, this is the perfect finish. One reviewer called the salmon “so good,” and another appreciated the variety of sides and the casual ambiance.

The Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

The tour starts at Mount Roberts Tramway, a convenient central location. With a maximum of around 90 travelers, it balances group camaraderie with manageable crowds. The transport is included, and the guides are praised for their engagement and knowledge—key for making the day informative and enjoyable.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning roughly 6-7 hours, the tour is designed to maximize sightseeing without overwhelming. Still, some guests have noted that certain stops, especially the glacier, felt hurried. If you’re a fast walker or not keen on rushing, you might want to plan some extra time independently.

Cost and Value

At $279 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it bundles several major attractions into one seamless experience. You get transportation, guided commentary, whale sighting guarantee, and a hearty meal—all at a price that many find reasonable given the convenience and variety of sights. Visitors who prefer a guided day with all logistics handled tend to see this as good value.

Weather Considerations

Juneau’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour is subject to favorable conditions, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll have the option for an alternative date or a full refund. Pack layers and be prepared for rain, which is common in the Pacific Northwest climate.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews praise the guides for their friendly, engaging manner and expert knowledge. Maureen called the day “perfect,” noting the “incredible” glacier, abundant whales, and delicious salmon bake. Others enjoyed the chance to see a breaching whale, with one reviewer exclaiming, “Whale watching was awesome.”

Some guests expressed minor frustrations. For example, Kathy felt the glacier visit was too rushed and wished for more hiking time. A few reviews mentioned disappointment with the glacier experience, noting they didn’t get to walk on the ice or spend extra time at the waterfall.

A notable point is the trust in the whale sighting guarantee, which reassures travelers that they’re likely to see whales—a big draw for wildlife enthusiasts.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience caters well to travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Juneau. It’s ideal for those interested in wildlife, stunning scenery, and hearty local cuisine, all wrapped into a day that’s planned for variety and ease. If you’re traveling with family, couples, or friends who don’t want to rent a car or arrange logistics, this is a hassle-free way to get the most out of your visit.

However, if you’re seeking a slower pace, more hiking, or a deeply immersive glacier experience, you might find this tour a little too rushed. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity and variable weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced glimpse of Juneau’s natural beauty and wildlife, with highlights that appeal to a broad audience. The combination of a glacier visit, guaranteed whale sightings, and a hearty seafood feast captures the essence of Alaska’s rugged charm. The knowledgeable guides and lively atmosphere elevate the experience, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and its creatures.

While it’s not without minor pacing issues—some guests wish for more time at certain stops—it remains a dependable, enjoyable way to see some of Alaska’s most iconic sights in a single day. For travelers who want a guided, all-in-one adventure with lots of authentic flavors and memorable wildlife encounters, this tour delivers excellent value.

FAQs

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect about 6 to 7 hours from start to finish, including transportation, sightseeing, and meals.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a naturalist guide, live entertainment, the whale sighting guarantee, permits, and a buffet meal with beverages.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes. The boat has a guarantee of whale sightings, and if no whales are seen, you’ll get a refund of $100 per adult and $50 per child.

Is the glacier accessible for exploration?
You can explore the Visitor Center and grounds, but most guests don’t get to walk on the glacier itself. The visit is more about viewing from the Visitor Center.

How much time do I have at each stop?
The glacier stop is about an hour, the whale cruise is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes, and the salmon bake lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes. You’ll need to move efficiently at some stops.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and minors 13-17 need parental consent if unaccompanied.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, impressive wildlife, or a hearty meal, this tour offers a practical way to experience Juneau’s top highlights. Just remember to dress for the weather, bring your camera, and get ready for a day packed with memorable sights and flavors.