Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall & Whale Watching Tour

Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall & Whale Watching Tour — A Complete Guide

If you’re visiting Juneau and want to pack in some of Alaska’s most iconic sights—think glaciers, waterfalls, and whales—this tour offers a well-rounded day. Covering both land and sea, it combines a scenic drive, a boat cruise, and a leisurely hike, making it ideal for travelers eager to see wildlife and stunning landscapes without feeling rushed.

What we love about this experience is its balance of adventure and relaxation—ample free time to explore at your own pace, plus knowledgeable guides who make everything come alive with stories and insights. A possible consideration? The tour requires walking on gravel paths and navigating some steep ramps, so it’s less suited for those with mobility issues. Still, if you enjoy being outdoors and want to see Alaska’s wild side, this tour is a winner for most.

Perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see whales and glaciers in one day, this experience offers good value given its inclusions and the opportunity to enjoy Alaska’s breathtaking scenery firsthand.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines whale watching, glacier viewing, and hiking for a full day of adventure.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and personal touches.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample time at Mendenhall Glacier allows for hikes, photography, or relaxing at the visitor center.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect the chance to see humpback whales, spawning salmon, and even black bears.
• Value for Money: For $199, you get transportation, boat cruise, snacks, and access to multiple highlights.
• Real Reviews Matter: Guests praise the guides, wildlife sightings, and well-organized logistics.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off at a central meeting point in downtown Juneau, where a friendly Dolphin Jet Boat Tours representative greets everyone outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. From there, a comfortable bus whisks you through the scenic Juneau countryside, heading towards the Mendenhall Valley in about 30 minutes. During this ride, your guides—such as Greg or Angie—share tidbits about the area’s history and geology, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

The Land Portion: Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls

Once at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, you’re given approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to explore. This is a key highlight for many travelers, especially those eager to witness the stunning ice formations and rugged beauty of the glacier. The tour offers a gentle, gravel path about two miles roundtrip to Nugget Falls, which most people can complete in around 45 minutes. The waterfall itself is a sight—you’ll love the way the water crashes over jagged rocks with the glacier looming in the background.

Guests frequently comment on the value of having extra time here. One reviewer noted, “Having more than enough time to see Nugget Falls was a real highlight—I’d have been happy to spend even longer.” For those who want a more educational experience, the Visitor Center offers insights into glacier formation and local ecology, making it more than just a photo stop.

From the reviews, it’s clear guides like Angie or Greg add a lot of value—they’re eager to answer questions about the glacier, salmon spawning, or black bears along Steep Creek. Visitors often comment on their enthusiasm, with one saying, “Greg’s commentary made all the difference—he knew so much and was hilarious too.”

The Sea Adventure: Whale Watching

After your time on land, you’ll return to the bus for a short transfer to Auke Bay, where your boat cruise begins. The boat is comfortable, indoor-seating is available, and your naturalist guide—like Rio or Morgan—helps spot whales and wildlife. The cruise navigates through popular channels and passages such as Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel.

Wildlife sightings are the main event here. Many reviews mention seeing up to eight whales, including humpbacks, with guides doing their best to get everyone a good view using binoculars. “The whales came right up to the boat,” one reviewer raved, highlighting the intimacy of these encounters. With the help of binoculars provided, you’ll have a good shot at spotting distant creatures, but many guests found themselves amazed by how close the whales came.

Hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks keep the mood cozy, even in the brisk Alaskan air. Guides like Morgan and Connor are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One guest said, “Rio and Morgan were incredible—they made us feel like friends, not just travelers.”

Wildlife Expectations & Extra Sights

Besides whales, you might spot spawning salmon and even a black bear along Steep Creek if timing is right. This area is a favorite for wildlife watchers, with some guests capturing stunning photos of bears or salmon against the rushing creek. The guides’ insights into local animal behaviors add a layer of depth to this part of the tour.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation & Duration: Round-trip transportation from downtown Juneau takes about 30 minutes each way, with the entire tour lasting around 5 hours. Check the schedule for specific starting times.
• Inclusions & Value: For $199, you get transportation, a boat cruise, snacks, binoculars, and free time at Mendenhall Glacier. That’s a solid deal considering the range of experiences packed into one day.
• Accessibility: The gravel path to Nugget Falls is smooth enough for strollers, but the walk involves some gentle inclines. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
• Weather & Clothing: Dress warmly and in layers—Alaska’s weather can change quickly. Comfortable shoes are essential.
• What to Bring: Besides clothing, bring a camera, binoculars (if you have your own), and cash if you want souvenirs or extra snacks at the visitor center.
• Important Notes: The tour involves navigating some steep ramps depending on tides. The boat has indoor seating, but be prepared for potentially brisk outdoor conditions.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides. For example, one guest praised Rio’s “knowledge about everything on whales,” while another appreciated Angie’s “great commentary and humor” during the bus ride. Attendees consistently mention that guides genuinely seem passionate about Alaska, making the experience more meaningful.

Wildlife sightings are often described as “close and memorable,” with multiple reports of whales approaching the boat, sometimes within a few meters. Guests also value the extra time at Nugget Falls, which lets them take stunning photos or enjoy a peaceful moment by the roaring waterfall.

A few less-than-perfect reviews note occasional communication hiccups or inexperienced crews, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, guests agree that Dolphin Jet Boat Tours offers a high-quality experience with good organization and genuine wildlife encounters.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded Alaskan adventure that combines wildlife, glaciers, and scenic hiking, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who want ample free time to explore and photograph their surroundings, rather than a rushed schedule. The guided boat cruise offers a fantastic chance of seeing whales—something many refer to as a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment.

The value here is clear: for about $200, you’re getting transportation, a boat cruise with wildlife viewing, snacks, and personal time at the glacier. Guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While it’s not designed for those with mobility challenges, most outdoor enthusiasts or active travelers will find this a fulfilling way to experience Juneau’s natural wonders. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a blend of adventure, education, and stunning scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour? No, the tour begins at a designated meeting point outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting spot.

How long is the whale watching cruise? The boat cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, cruising through key channels where whales and other wildlife can be spotted.

What should I wear on the tour? Dress in weather-appropriate layers and comfortable shoes. Alaska’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain or wind.

Can I see whales on every trip? While sightings are highly likely—many guests see multiple whales—the tour guarantees a sighting or your money back.

How much time do I have at Mendenhall Glacier? Expect roughly 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, which includes free time to hike to Nugget Falls, explore the visitor center, or walk along the creek.

Is the walk to Nugget Falls stroller-friendly? Yes, the gravel path is smooth enough for strollers and takes about 45 minutes, but some gentle inclines may be present.

Are there wildlife aside from whales? Yes, you might see spawning salmon, black bears, and other local animals, especially along Steep Creek.

What’s the group size like? The tour is designed for a comfortable group size, with guides providing personalized attention and insights.

To sum it up, this Juneau tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, glacier scenery, and outdoor activity, all at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Alaska’s natural beauty in a relaxed, well-organized manner. Expect knowledgeable guides, plenty of opportunities for photos, and the chance to see whales up close—truly unforgettable moments in the Last Frontier.