Juneau: Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour

Imagine gliding quietly across a mirror-like lake with the towering Mendenhall Glacier looming just yards away. That’s exactly what you get with the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour in Juneau. This small-group experience, offered by Liquid Alaska Tours, promises an intimate encounter with one of Alaska’s most famous landmarks, combined with the tranquility of paddling on pristine water. It’s a chance to see icebergs, waterfalls, and steep cliffs carved by glaciers — all while enjoying the expert guidance of knowledgeable locals.

One thing we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and learning. Guides like Jordan, Molly, Devyn, and Ryley aren’t just friendly—they’re deeply knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary about the glacier and surrounding environment. Plus, the fact that it limits participation to just 10 people means you’re not lost in a crowd, making for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the physical requirement — you need to be comfortable paddling for about two hours, and it’s not suitable for very young kids, pregnant women, or those with back or mobility issues. The tour is best suited for active travelers who love nature and want a close-up, hands-on adventure. If you’re craving authentic Alaskan scenery and don’t mind a bit of physical effort, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

Stunning Glacier Views: Paddle close to the face of the 3,000-year-old Mendenhall Glacier, experiencing its immense size and icy beauty firsthand.
Expert Guides: Guides like Jordan, Molly, Devyn, and Ryley are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make the experience engaging and safe.
Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 10 ensure personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
All-Weather Gear Provided: Rain jackets, pants, waterproof boots, and paddling gloves help keep you dry and comfortable, no matter the weather.
Includes Transportation & Refreshments: Roundtrip transport from Mount Roberts Tramway, snacks, bottled water, and hot beverages add value and convenience.
A Unique Photo Opportunity: With scenic views of icebergs, waterfalls, and cliffs carved by glaciers, you’ll have plenty of chances to snap memorable photos.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins in front of the Mount Roberts Tramway building near the cruise pier. This location is convenient if you’re arriving via cruise ship or staying in downtown Juneau. The tour includes roundtrip transportation by minivan, which feels comfortable and hassle-free. The drive to Tongass National Forest takes about 30 minutes but offers a glimpse of Alaska’s lush, green landscapes en route.

The Scenic Drive to Mendenhall Lake

As you leave the city behind, the scenery quickly shifts to dense forests and rugged mountain terrain. Guides like Ryley are praised for their efficiency and enthusiasm, making the transfer itself part of the enjoyable experience. During this segment, they often share interesting facts about the region, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Upon arriving at Mendenhall Lake, your guides conduct a 30-minute safety briefing. This is where you’ll learn about paddling techniques, safety protocols, and what to expect during the tour. They’ll fit you with top-quality gear, including rain jackets, pants, waterproof boots, and paddling gloves. The dry bags provided will hold your personal belongings, snacks, and camera gear, so you can focus on the experience.

The Canoe Experience

The core of the tour is a two-hour guided paddle across Mendenhall Lake. As you glide past icebergs and waterfalls, you’ll marvel at the scale and beauty of the glacier. Multiple reviews highlight how close guests got to the glacier face, sometimes much closer than other tours allow. Guides like Molly and Devyn are known for their attentiveness, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe while enjoying the scenery.

Scenic Highlights

• Icebergs: Floating remnants of the glacier that add a surreal, otherworldly feel to the lake.
• Waterfalls: Cascading down cliffs carved by ancient ice, providing perfect photo opportunities.
• Cliffs and Ice Face: Paddle right up to the face of the glacier, exposing its staggering size and icy blue hues.

Post-Paddle Relaxation and Refreshments

After paddling, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute break with hot beverages, local snacks, and even some time to chat about the day’s highlights. Many reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable guides enhanced the experience with interesting commentary and personal touches.

Return Trip and Reflection

Your return involves another 30-minute drive back to Mount Roberts Tramway, giving you time to reflect on the experience and maybe plan your next adventure in Juneau.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Up-Close Glacial Encounter

Unlike many glacier-viewing trips from a distance, this tour allows you to paddle right up to the glacier face, offering a unique perspective on its icy grandeur. Guests frequently mention how much closer they got than on other tours, which elevates the experience from scenic to immersive.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Guides like Jordan and Molly are consistently praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm. Their deep knowledge about the glacier and local ecology adds an educational layer to the trip, which many reviewers appreciate. According to one reviewer, Jordan was “punctual, funny, and very knowledgeable,” adding a personal touch that enhanced the entire trip.

Safety and Comfort

The inclusion of high-quality gear ensures you’re prepared for Alaskan weather, which can be unpredictable. Travelers mention that the rain gear and waterproof boots made the experience comfortable even when the weather was less than perfect. The small group size also fosters a relaxed atmosphere, where questions are welcomed and safety is prioritized.

Value for Money

At $251 per person, this tour is an investment in both a memorable experience and quality service. When you consider the roundtrip transportation, expert guide, quality gear, snacks, and the chance to paddle close to one of the world’s most iconic glaciers, it offers solid value—especially for travelers seeking a genuine, hands-on adventure.

Practical Considerations for Potential Participants

Physical Fitness: You should be comfortable paddling for up to two hours, which can be tiring but rewarding. The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with back, shoulder, or hip problems.
Weather Dependency: Since the tour relies on safe wind conditions, it may be canceled if winds are too high, especially due to specific glacier weather patterns. Flexibility with your schedule is recommended.
Clothing & Gear: The provided rain gear generally suffices, but dressing in layers for warmth and waterproof footing is wise.
Time Commitment: The tour lasts about four hours, including transportation, paddling, and breaks. Check the available start times to fit it into your schedule.
Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if weather looks uncertain.

The Verdict: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This canoe adventure is perfect for active travelers who love nature, photography, and unique experiences. It’s ideal for those who want a closer view of the Mendenhall Glacier than typical sightseeing tours provide, and who appreciate guided insights into the environment. It’s well-suited for individuals or small groups comfortable with paddling and eager to explore Alaska’s wilderness from a different angle.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience or are traveling with very young children or pregnant, you might consider other glacier or wildlife options.

This tour offers an authentic, memorable connection with one of Alaska’s most famous natural features, delivered by guides who truly care about sharing their knowledge and passion.

FAQ

How long does the canoe tour last?
The paddle itself is about two hours, but the full experience, including transportation, safety briefing, and breaks, lasts around four hours.

What equipment is provided?
You will receive rain jackets, rain pants, waterproof boots, paddling gloves, and a dry bag to store your personal items. Snacks and bottled water are also included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and guests should be comfortable paddling for up to two hours. It’s not recommended for younger kids or those with mobility issues.

What if the weather is bad?
Tour safety depends heavily on wind conditions. If winds are too high, the tour may be canceled with a full refund. It’s wise to check weather forecasts and be flexible.

Where exactly does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from in front of the Mount Roberts Tramway building near the cruise pier and concludes back at the same location.

Can I book this last minute?
Yes, reservations are flexible, and you can reserve now and pay later. Availability varies, so booking in advance is recommended.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. With close-up views of icebergs, waterfalls, and the glacier, it offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially for those wanting to capture Alaska’s icy majesty.

Final Thoughts

The Juneau Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers an unparalleled way to experience Alaska’s iconic glacier. Small-group sizes, expert guides, and the opportunity to paddle close to the ice face all combine to make this a memorable adventure. While it requires a degree of physical fitness and good weather, those willing to put in the effort will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a genuine sense of connection to the Alaskan wilderness.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an active, authentic encounter with nature, especially those who value knowledgeable guides and a personalized experience. If you’re after a bucket-list Alaska moment that combines scenery, adventure, and education, this is definitely one to consider.

In summary, if you’re after an immersive, scenic, and educational experience with Alaska’s Mendenhall Glacier, this canoe tour delivers in spades. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to go beyond sightseeing and truly connect with the landscape in an adventurous way.