Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall & Whale Watching Tour

If you’re heading to Juneau and want a well-rounded experience that combines Alaska’s awe-inspiring glaciers with the thrill of whale watching, this tour from Dolphin Jet Boat Tours might be just what you need. It’s a five-hour adventure with a healthy dose of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and some flexible free time to explore at your own pace.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on personalized experiences — with extra time at Nugget Falls and the chance to see spawning salmon and black bears, it feels less rushed than many standard excursions. Plus, the naturalist-led whale watching gives you a good shot at seeing humpback whales in their familiar environment, with many reviewers noting fantastic sightings. The only potential hiccup? It’s a fairly active tour, involving some walking and boat rides, so those with mobility issues might want to consider this. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who love a mix of active exploration and wildlife spotting.

This trip suits those who want to enjoy Alaska’s wild side without feeling overwhelmed by overly long or complex tours. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone craving a genuine glimpse of Juneau’s natural wonders will find this appealing. Just keep in mind, it’s a “no-frills” adventure that emphasizes experience and value over luxury — but the natural beauty and wildlife are top-tier.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see humpback whales, and possibly spawning salmon and black bears—naturalist guides and binoculars enhance the experience.
• Flexible Free Time: You’ll get nearly two hours at Mendenhall Glacier, with options to hike to Nugget Falls or explore the visitor center.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Juneau is included, with a scenic bus ride and a boat cruise in a cozy indoor setting.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides for making the experience both fun and educational.
• Good Value: At $159, considering the boat, transportation, snacks, and free time, this offers solid value.
• Clear Logistics: Meeting point details are straightforward, with a designated representative outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Starting From Juneau: Easy Pickup and Scenic Ride

The tour begins with a user-friendly pickup at a central location in Juneau, outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. There’s a helpful guide with a blue sign explaining where to meet, so it’s unlikely you’ll get lost or confused. We appreciate this clarity — it’s a small detail that makes the start of your day smooth.

Once on the bus, the ride to the Mendenhall Valley is part of the charm. Expect stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, setting the perfect tone for what’s ahead. The bus driver’s commentary is often lively and informative, as many reviews highlight guides who are both friendly and full of interesting facts.

Whale Watching: A Close Encounter with Nature

The centerpiece for many is the whale watching. You’ll cruise aboard a comfortable jetboat, with indoor seating to stay warm and dry. The naturalist guides lead the way, pointing out whales and wildlife, and explaining their behaviors. Reviewers note that with the help of provided binoculars, spotting the whales becomes easier, and many reports include sightings of multiple humpbacks, with some claiming over a dozen whales feeding and breaching right in front of them. One reviewer described the experience as “unbelievable,” with a captain who expertly navigated close to the action.

The trip through channels like Stephens Passage and Lynn Canal is scenic in itself, but the real highlight is the wildlife. Many travelers mention the enthusiasm of the crew and naturalists — their knowledge and energy make the tour engaging, especially for kids and animal lovers.

Mendenhall Glacier: Free Time and Photography Opportunities

After the boat cruise, you arrive at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. Here, you’ll have approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore — a break that many reviews praise as enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

The highlight is hiking to Nugget Falls, which is an easy, gravel path about two miles round trip. The walk is suitable for most, including strollers, and takes around 45 minutes for most people. The falls cascade from the glacier’s edge and offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially when the light hits the water just right.

You’ll also have the chance to visit the visitor center, which provides educational exhibits about the glacier’s history and climate change. For wildlife fans, a walk over the creek where salmon spawn is a favorite, giving you a glimpse of Alaska’s spawning salmon and possibly black bears — a rare but exciting sight.

More Great Tours Nearby

Flexibility and Additional Options

One of the tour’s strengths is the flexibility. If you want to spend more time at the glacier or just soak in the views, you can stay longer. Conversely, if you prefer to catch the earlier bus back, you have that option. This customization allows you to tailor the experience to your energy level and interests.

Return Journey: Comfortable and Convenient

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point in Juneau. Many reviews mention how straightforward and hassle-free the process is, with guides and drivers making the day enjoyable from start to finish. The entire experience lasts around five hours, which makes it suitable for most travelers without feeling like an all-day commitment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price of $159 are round-trip transportation, the boat cruise, indoor seating, snacks and refreshments, binoculars, and your free time at the glacier. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point — which is usually simple given the central location.

Some reviews have pointed out that the snacks are basic (granola bars), but that’s typical for such tours. Many mention that the naturalist guides often bring extra snacks or treats, adding to the friendly, casual vibe.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on gravel paths.
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing; even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool.
• The tour involves navigating a ramp that can be steep, depending on tides, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
• The gravel path to Nugget Falls is stroller-friendly, taking about 45 minutes, but if you want more time or have mobility issues, discuss your options with the guides.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

What do past travelers say? Many rave about the guides’ knowledge and their ability to make wildlife and glacier sights come alive. One reviewer notes, “Nia and Jay are the best guides,” praising their enthusiasm and expertise. Others mention how “the crew was first class,” and how close they got to whales — with some seeing multiple breaches and bubble net feeding.

Several comment on the value for money — especially when compared to other tours or cruise line offerings. One traveler from Australia called the whale sighting “AMAZING,” while a family from the US appreciated the flexibility and the chance to explore Nugget Falls at their own pace.

Not all reviews are perfect; a few mention inexperienced crew members or wish for longer at the glacier. However, overall, the consensus is very positive, with many saying this tour delivers a memorable, authentic experience that’s worth the price.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a comprehensive taste of Juneau’s natural treasures, combining wildlife encounters, glacier scenery, and opportunities for personal exploration. It’s great for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure without feeling overwhelmed by options or logistics.

If you’re a wildlife lover, the chance to see humpback whales in their environment is a highlight. Families and those wanting a flexible itinerary will appreciate the extra time at Nugget Falls and the educational aspects at the visitor center. Plus, the value is solid — considering transport, guides, boat ride, and snacks, it’s a good deal for a memorable day in Alaska.

While it might not be suited for those with significant mobility challenges or those seeking a luxury experience, most travelers will find this tour hits the mark with its friendly guides, scenic views, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s a memorable way to connect with Alaska’s wild heart.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including transportation, boat cruise, and free time at the glacier.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, transportation is provided from a designated meeting point outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. You must arrange your own transport to that location.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, and weather can change quickly.

Can I hike to Nugget Falls?
Yes, the gravel path to Nugget Falls is about two miles round trip, and most people take around 45 minutes. It’s stroller-friendly and suitable for most fitness levels.

Will I see whales?
Most likely, yes. Many reviews mention multiple whale sightings, including breaching and bubble net feeding. The company guarantees whale sightings or your money back.

Is there free time at the glacier?
Yes, you’ll get roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours for exploring, hiking, or relaxing, depending on your pace.

Are there any restrictions or physical considerations?
The tour involves some walking on gravel paths and navigating ramps that can be steep depending on tides. It’s not ideal for those with significant mobility issues or wheelchairs.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, boat tour, indoor seating, snacks, drinks, binoculars, and free time at the glacier are all included in the $159 fee.

In summary, for those wanting a well-organized, wildlife-rich, scenic tour that balances active exploration with relaxed scenic moments, this Juneau trip delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, authentic wildlife encounters, and the chance to see iconic Alaska glaciers up close.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby