Juneau: Tram, Trails and Ale Tour

If you’re visiting Juneau and craving a blend of stunning scenery, local culture, and a laid-back tasting experience, the Tram, Trails, and Ale Tour might just fit the bill. This two-hour journey combines a scenic ride on the Goldbelt Tram with a gentle hike along well-designed trails and a refreshing stop at a mountaintop beer garden. It’s a quick, yet deeply memorable way to connect with the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska, all while enjoying some local craft brews or wines.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it balances nature, education, and leisure. First, the tram ride offers panoramic views that make it worth every penny. Then, the guided walk along themed trails enriches your appreciation for the area’s flora, fauna, and geology. And finally, the chance to sip a local Alaskan craft beer or wine while soaking in the mountain vistas truly hits the spot. A slight consideration is that the tour’s duration is modest—just two hours—so if you’re looking for a longer or more intense outdoor adventure, this might feel a bit brief.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing that’s accessible and family-friendly, yet packed with authentic local flavor. Whether you’re a nature lover, a craft beer enthusiast, or simply someone eager for a taste of Juneau’s spectacular landscape, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

Stunning panoramic views from the top of Mt. Roberts make the tram ride worthwhile.
The guided hike along the Totem Loop Trail provides educational insights into local flora, fauna, and geology.
The mountaintop beer garden offers a relaxed setting to enjoy Alaskan craft brews or wines.
The experience is flexible, with options for morning or afternoon tours, and includes interpretive signage at scenic overlooks.
The tour emphasizes authentic storytelling and expert guidance, such as the insightful narration from local guides.
Price at $125 per person offers good value considering transportation, guided walks, and a drink included.

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An In-Depth Look at the Juneau Tram, Trails, and Ale Tour

Looking for more options in Juneau Alaska? Here are some other experiences worth considering.

The Scenic Tram to Mt. Roberts

Your adventure begins with the Goldbelt Tram, which carries you 1,800 feet above sea level to the summit of Mt. Roberts. This ride is the highlight for many visitors, thanks to the breathtaking views of Juneau, the surrounding mountains, and the distant ocean. We loved the way the tram glides smoothly over the forested landscape, providing a comfortable and accessible ascent.

The tram’s large windows ensure you’ll enjoy a photo-worthy panorama en route. The ride typically lasts just a few minutes but is packed with sights that make the ticket price feel justified. From the top, you are welcomed with expansive mountain vistas and the fresh, crisp air that only these heights can offer.

Guided Hike Along the Totem Loop Trail

Once at the summit, your guide leads you along the Totem Loop Trail—a gentle walk designed to showcase the area’s natural and cultural features. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels, making it an easy yet enjoyable stroll. Along the way, you’ll encounter themed nature walks such as the Bear Walk, Bird Walk, Sea Walk, Mountain Walk, and Wolf Walk Trails.

The guides, like Michael and Damen (who, in reviews, impressed visitors with their knowledge), enhance the experience by sharing stories about local flora, fauna, and geology. We appreciated how they explained the significance of each feature, making the hike as educational as it was scenic. As one reviewer put it, their guide Michael did a “great job” of turning a simple trail into an enriching learning experience.

Viewpoints and Observation Decks

Throughout the trail, you’ll find interpretive signage and panoramic stops at the Geology and History Observation Decks. These spots are perfect for taking in the sweeping vistas and for snapping some memorable photos. The scenic overlooks make it clear why this mountain has been a strategic and cultural focal point for generations.

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A Toast at the Mountaintop Beer Garden

After exploring the trails, it’s time to relax. The tour includes a complimentary Alaskan craft beer or wine, which can be enjoyed at the Mountain House or at the TrAle House, the mountaintop beer garden. The beer selection features rotating taps of local brews, and the setting is ideal for unwinding with a drink in hand while taking in the panoramic views.

Many visitors, like Susanna, noted how “the view was amazing” while sipping their beer. The relaxed atmosphere and spectacular scenery make this a true highlight. Plus, non-alcoholic options are available, so everyone can raise a glass.

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The Experience You’ll Take Home

This tour offers more than just a quick ride or walk. It’s a well-rounded introduction to Juneau’s natural beauty, local culture, and craft beverage scene. The guided walks and interpretive signs transform what could be a simple hike into an educational journey, and the panoramic views leave lasting impressions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $125, you get the tram ride, a guided hike, access to themed nature walks, and a complimentary beverage. The only thing not included is transportation to the tour meeting point, so plan accordingly. The tour lasts approximately two hours, usually offered in the morning or afternoon, making it flexible for most schedules.

Authenticity and Quality

Feedback from visitors highlights the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as the main draws. Susanna praised her guide Michael for doing a “great job” with education and storytelling, while Kritika’s experience with Damen, a guide from the Haida clan, added a cultural dimension that elevated the experience even further. That kind of personal, local insight is rare and invaluable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate easy outdoor activities with a focus on scenery and education. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed pace and a taste of local culture. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy sampling local Alaskan brews, but non-drinkers are also well-catered for with non-alcoholic options.

Although the tour is relatively short, its combination of transport, storytelling, and scenic stops offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those who want a low-impact, high-reward outing that showcases Juneau’s natural beauty without requiring strenuous effort.

The Sum Up

The Juneau Tram, Trails, and Ale Tour offers a satisfying mix of mountain vistas, educational insights, and local flavors. The guided nature walks are both accessible and informative, giving you a deeper understanding of Alaska’s unique landscape and wildlife. The trams provide an effortless way to reach the summit, making the experience suitable for most visitors.

The highlight for many is the mountaintop beer garden, where you can toast the incredible views with a local craft brew or a glass of wine. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a scenic respite during your cruise or land visit, this tour strikes a good balance between relaxation and discovery.

While it’s not a lengthy or adrenaline-pumping adventure, it excels at giving a taste of Juneau’s natural splendor in a comfortable, well-organized package. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a light yet meaningful experience that leaves them with memorable sights and a well-earned drink.

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