Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike

Taking a trip to Juneau isn’t complete without experiencing its most iconic sights firsthand. The Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike offers a unique way to connect with Alaska’s incredible wilderness — combining the serenity of paddling across icy waters with the adventure of exploring the glacier’s edge. While it’s not a leisure cruise or a typical sightseeing bus tour, this 5.5-hour experience promises authentic encounters with nature, guided by knowledgeable experts who really know their stuff.

One element we particularly appreciate is how this tour manages to blend physical activity with stunning scenery. You’ll enjoy paddling past nesting Arctic Terns, feeling the cool mist from Nugget Falls, and walking on the ice age landscape. That said, it’s important to remember this isn’t a laid-back trip; it’s moderate to strenuous, involving a canoe paddle of up to 7 miles and some rocky hikes. It’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and a love for outdoor adventure. If you’re after a relaxed day, this might be more than you bargained for, but if you’re craving a true Alaska experience, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• Active and engaging: Combines paddling, hiking, and wildlife spotting for a full outdoor experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Abby, Taylor, and Leah enhance the experience with humor and insight.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking mountain views, glacier features, and waterfalls.
• Value-packed: Includes gear, waterproof clothing, a hearty snack, and transfers, making logistics effortless.
• Weather considerations: Tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for all conditions.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 12) mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transfers

Your adventure begins at 490 S Franklin St in downtown Juneau, where your guides from Above & Beyond Alaska will be waiting near the ‘C’ sign close to the cruise ship docks. This setup is convenient if you’re arriving by cruise or staying nearby. For hotel guests in the Mendenhall Valley, pickup can be arranged directly from your accommodation, which adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate.

The transfer from the meeting point is a comfortable 30-minute drive aboard a climate-controlled van. This ride offers a preview of the stunning scenery ahead, with views of the surrounding mountains and forests, setting the tone for the day.

Safety Briefing and Gear Up

Once at the lake, your guides will provide a thorough safety briefing, essential for a paddling trip of this nature. Expect to receive gear and waterproof clothing — the latter especially handy given the unpredictable Alaskan weather. As one reviewer noted, the guides Abby and Taylor were both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making safety both informative and engaging.

Canoeing Across Mendenhall Lake

The core of the experience is paddling across Mendenhall Glacier Lake in sturdy 8- or 12-person canoes, guided by one or two experts. Expect to spend around an hour on the water, with plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery — and keep an eye out for Arctic Terns nesting nearby. The lakeside is lined with floating icebergs from the glacier, some fresh from calving, adding an exhilarating, real-time element to your journey.

Traveling with wind at your back makes the return paddle more relaxed and fun. The guides help ensure everyone feels comfortable, with instructions tailored for all skill levels, although some physical exertion is involved.

Approaching the Glacier

As you near the glacier, the landscape transforms into a wintery wonderland of ice and rocky terrain. Landing on the beach near the glacier, you’ll step out of the canoe to explore this ancient landscape. The glacier’s constantly changing features — from intricate ice formations to freshly calved icebergs — mean no two visits are quite the same, adding to the tour’s appeal.

One reviewer, Anne, highlights: “Great canoe workout. Hiking around glacier was amazing. Guides Abby and Leah were very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor.” This confirms that the hike provides opportunities to truly appreciate the glacier’s scale and beauty, with knowledgeable guides ensuring you don’t miss the key sights.

The Hike and Exploration

The walking portion takes you across rocky terrain to observe the glacier’s edge up close. The guides share insights into the ice’s formation and the glacier’s ongoing retreat — a reminder of the environment’s dynamic nature. Expect to see striking ice features, perhaps some calved icebergs, and the mist rising from Nugget Falls, creating a magical atmosphere.

Returning Paddle and Departure

After exploring, you’ll hop back into your canoe to paddle back across the lake. The return trip generally is more relaxing, with the wind aiding your progress. Once onshore, you’ll gear up for the return transfer to Juneau, completing your outdoor adventure.

What’s Included and Practical Details

This tour is designed to be as seamless as possible. Included are transfers from downtown Juneau or your hotel, all necessary gear and waterproof clothing, a hearty snack pack, water, and the canoe crossing itself. The meeting point is easy to find, and the small group size (limited to 12) ensures a more intimate experience and personalized guidance.

The tour lasts 5.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability. Be sure to wear warm, comfortable outdoor clothes, including socks, and bring a signed waiver. Note that the activity takes place regardless of weather, so prepared for rain is essential.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour suits active travelers with a moderate to high level of fitness who want to combine paddling, hiking, and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s particularly appealing to wildlife enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and those interested in witnessing the glacier’s raw beauty up close. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, heart, respiratory, or back issues — the physical demands are notable.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re eager for a hands-on Alaska experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing bus or cruise stop, this paddle-and-hike combo provides a genuine connection to the environment. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable experts, you’ll learn about the glacier’s changing landscape while enjoying some of the best mountain views in Juneau.

The small group size and included gear make it a hassle-free day, with plenty of opportunities for authentic wildlife encounters and stunning vistas. Though it’s a physically demanding trip, our reviews confirm guides like Abby, Taylor, and Leah make it both informative and fun.

This experience is perfect if you want to actively explore Alaska’s wilderness and create memorable stories of your trip — not just see it from afar. Be prepared for a workout, really appreciate the scenery, and, most importantly, have fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from a meeting point in downtown Juneau or pickup from major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley, making logistics simple.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, comfortable outdoor clothes, socks, and be prepared for rain — waterproof gear is supplied.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It’s considered moderate to strenuous, involving paddling up to 7 miles and rocky hiking. Good fitness levels are recommended.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can children join?
This tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers like Melissa praise guides Abby and Taylor for their expertise and humor, which enhances the overall experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour goes rain or shine. Prepare accordingly, as the scenery and experience remain rewarding regardless of weather conditions.

What’s included in the price?
Gear, waterproof clothing, transfers, a snack pack, water, and the canoe crossing are all included, offering good value for the adventure.

Is this suitable for people with medical conditions?
It’s important to note that the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back, heart, or respiratory issues, or anyone with mobility impairments or a low fitness level.

Final Words

The Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s icy beauty up close in an active, guided setting. Perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine physical activity with breathtaking scenery, it delivers authentic experiences with the help of expert guides like Abby, Taylor, and Leah.

While the physical demands may be high for some, the stunning views of the glacier, waterfalls, and mountain landscape make every effort worthwhile. This tour is best suited for those seeking a memorable, hands-on Alaska adventure — one that leaves you with stories to tell and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

If you’re looking for something more active than a boat cruise but still want to enjoy the majesty of the glacier, this is a fantastic choice. Just remember to come prepared, be ready for the weather, and embrace the adventure — it might just become one of your favorite moments in Alaska.