Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour

If you’re heading to Juneau and want a straightforward way to see the iconic Mendenhall Glacier without the fuss of planning every detail, the Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour might catch your eye. Offered by Juneau Tours, this three-hour round-trip ride sits comfortably on many travelers’ to-do lists, especially for those with limited time and a desire for a relaxed yet informative outing.

What we love most about this experience is its ease of access—a simple transfer from the cruise port to the glacier, with the bonus of a driver who shares stories and tips along the way. Plus, the cozy trolley ride, complete with commentary, makes the journey more than just transportation. On the flip side, some might find the price a bit steep for what is essentially a shuttle with narration, especially if they’re on a tight budget or prefer more active exploration.

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want an uncomplicated, enjoyable trip to Mendenhall Glacier without the hassle of arranging private transport or worrying about timing. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided commentary and the chance to learn a little about Juneau’s background while enjoying the scenic drive.

Key Points

• Provides a reliable, scheduled round-trip shuttle from Juneau’s cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier
• Offers engaging driver commentary on Juneau’s history and local tips
• The trolley ride is comfortable and ideal for short stops
• Cost is $79 per person, with flexible departure times
• Tour duration is about three hours, including time at the glacier and the drive
• Free cancellation makes it flexible in case your plans change

An In-Depth Look at the Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour

We’ll start with the basics — this tour is designed for those who want a hassle-free way to see Mendenhall Glacier with minimal planning. Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about two months in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The price of $79 per person is reasonable considering it covers both transportation and the guided commentary, but it’s worth comparing with other options if you’re budget-conscious.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Start Point: The tour begins at the Mount Roberts Tramway, located at 490 S Franklin St, right in downtown Juneau. From here, a custom trolley whisks you off on a scenic drive toward the glacier. The trolley is enclosed, offering comfort against the often unpredictable Alaskan weather, whether rain or shine.

Route and Commentary: During the approximately 30-minute drive, the driver shares snippets of Juneau’s past, interesting facts about the area, and restaurant recommendations. Many reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, with one noting, “Andrew set the tone from the very start. He was very friendly and professional,” which highlights the value of having a personable guide.

Stop at Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center: After the drive, you disembark at the visitor center, located at the end of Glacier Spur Road. Here, you’re free to explore the glacier and its trails at your own pace. The visitor center itself has free admission, making it a good value, though the main draw is the glacier’s stunning ice formations and the chance to walk close to a glacier that has been retreating over the years.

Time on Your Own: You’ll have roughly two hours on site, which is enough for a comfortable walk or two on nearby trails like the Nugget Falls Trail—famous for its spectacular waterfall tumbling over volcanic rock. A few travelers noted that the visitor center might be closed on certain days, so don’t count on inside exhibits unless confirmed.

Return Trip: The trolley departs for Juneau after your free time, with the driver providing more local insights during the return journey. The entire tour lasts around three hours, with a total of about 30 minutes on the road each way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value and Convenience: For $79, you get the hassle of transportation, a guided narration, and the flexibility of multiple departure times to match your cruise schedule. You won’t need to worry about navigating or parking—just show up and relax.

Driver as a Local Guide: The driver’s commentary is praised for being friendly, informative, and humorous. As one reviewer said, “He was very thorough and knowledgeable,” which adds a layer of authenticity and makes the journey more memorable.

Comfort and Accessibility: The enclosed trolley ensures you stay comfortable, regardless of weather. Plus, most travelers found the ride pleasant and the group size manageable, with a maximum of 42 participants.

Stunning Views and Trails: The glacier itself is breathtaking, with its massive ice formations and the nearby Nugget Falls providing iconic photo opportunities. The trails around the visitor center are suitable for most walkers, making it a good choice for families or casual hikers.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

Limited Time at the Glacier: With only about two hours at the site, you might feel rushed if you’re eager to explore extensively or take numerous photos. Some travelers might prefer a longer visit for a more leisurely experience.

Cost Comparison: While many reviews find the price fair for the convenience, others suggest that a taxi or Lyft could be cheaper if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling alone. One review points out, “It would have been more cost-effective to Uber,” though they also mentioned the driver was pleasant and entertaining.

Visitor Center Accessibility: On some days, the visitor center might be closed early, which could diminish the experience. It’s good to check ahead if inside exhibits or amenities are important to you.

Signage and Directions: A minor inconvenience noted by some travelers is that signs aren’t prominent until the last moment, so be prepared to look carefully for the pickup point at the tramway.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you want a straightforward, guided transfer with interesting commentary. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want to maximize their time at Mendenhall without the stress of planning transportation or navigation. Nature lovers who enjoy scenic drives and short walks will appreciate the flexible schedule and comfortable ride.

Who Might Want More?

If you’re an avid hiker or prefer to explore independently, you might find this tour a bit limited. Also, budget travelers may consider cheaper options like taxis, though they would lose the guided narration and the convenience of pre-arranged transport.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In the context of a cruise stop, where time is tight and convenience is key, the Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour offers a solid value. The fact that it includes both transportation and engaging commentary means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics. The small group size and the comfort of the trolley make it a comfortable choice, especially if you enjoy guided tours with a local flavor.

For travelers who prioritize ease and a bit of local insight, this tour hits the right notes. It’s not the cheapest way to see the glacier, but the convenience, comfort, and knowledgeable guide make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you want to focus on the scenery rather than planning your entire day.

In summary, this tour is best for cruise visitors or those with limited time who want a comfortable, guided introduction to Mendenhall Glacier. It offers a good blend of scenic drive, informative narration, and free time at one of Alaska’s most iconic sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the trolley operates in all weather, but it’s wise to dress appropriately for rain or cold, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors at the glacier.

Does the tour include admission to the visitor center?
No, the visitor center’s admission is free, but it might be closed on certain days. The tour itself covers transportation and narration.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers many departure options, allowing you to pick a time that best fits your cruise schedule.

How long is the ride each way?
Approximately 30 minutes each way, with time to enjoy the scenery and listen to commentary.

What’s included in the price?
The round-trip transportation from the cruise port to the glacier, driver narration with local tips, and the ride itself. Gratuities are optional but appreciated.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 42 travelers, ensuring a manageable, personable experience.

In essence, if you’re after a straightforward, comfortable, and informative shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier, this tour offers good value and a relaxed way to enjoy Alaska’s stunning ice formations. Just remember, a bit of flexibility or extra time might be needed if you’re eager to explore on your own or have more time to linger at the glacier.