Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure

Our review of the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure offers a detailed look at this popular Juneau excursion. Designed for travelers eager to combine natural beauty with a bit of outdoor activity, this tour takes you across tranquil waters near one of Alaska’s most iconic sights—the Mendenhall Glacier. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to canoeing, this experience promises memorable views, fresh air, and a chance to see Alaska’s wilderness from a unique perspective.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its inclusive approach—offering all necessary equipment and snacks—and the chance to get close to the glacier and Nugget Falls in a traditional canoe. It’s a chance to connect with nature in an authentic, engaging way. However, it’s worth noting that paddling requires a moderate level of fitness; the tour involves a fair amount of rowing, which might not suit everyone, especially older travelers or those with shoulder issues.

This experience suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and want more than just a quick glance at the glacier. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours that blend scenic beauty with a bit of physical effort. Now, let’s explore what makes this canoe adventure a worthwhile, if sometimes challenging, part of your Juneau trip.

Key Points

• The tour is approximately four hours, including transportation, paddling, and sightseeing.
• All equipment, including rain gear, life jackets, and boots, is provided, making it easier for travelers.
• The experience offers unobstructed views of Mendenhall Glacier, icebergs, Nugget Falls, and Alaskan wildlife.
• Expect a moderate workout with paddling, suitable for active and physically capable travelers.
• The small group size (up to 19 people) ensures a personalized experience and more time for photos.
• Full narration from guides enriches your understanding of the glacier’s history and surroundings.
• The tour is best booked well in advance, often 2 months ahead, highlighting its popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure

How the Tour Starts: From Juneau to the Water

Your adventure kicks off at the Mount Roberts Tramway location in downtown Juneau. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour provider, Alaska Travel Adventures makes transportation seamless with included hotel pickup and drop-off. This small detail can save stress and time in a city where parking and navigation might be tricky for visitors.

Once you’re on the bus, expect a scenic drive through Juneau’s lush surroundings. Guides share interesting insights about the area’s history and geology, building anticipation for the water-based portion of the trip. This part of the journey sets the tone for a relaxed yet engaging experience.

The Canoe: A Traditional Tlingit-style Vessel

The highlight of this tour is paddling in a traditional Tlingit-style canoe. These are two-person wide canoes, which means everyone has a paddling partner or can opt to relax and enjoy the ride. The design allows for an unobstructed view of the glacier, icebergs, and waterfall. Imagine sitting in a canoe, gliding across mirror-like waters with towering glaciers looming nearby—a picture-postcard moment.

The canoe ride generally lasts around 45 to 60 minutes each way, so be prepared for a fair amount of paddling. Multiple reviews mention that the effort involved is moderate but noticeable. For example, one guest noted, “It’s a moderate workout (I’d never canoed before) but definitely not too strenuous and any fitness level could do this!” Another pointed out that the experience might be physically demanding, “lots of work and windy,” so this tour is best suited to those with a decent level of fitness.

What You See and Photograph

During the paddle, you’ll get close enough to the glacier to capture fantastic photos—icebergs floating beside your canoe, the grandeur of Nugget Falls, and the glacier’s jagged face. Guides often share stories about the glacier’s history and the natural forces shaping this icy landscape, adding depth to your viewing experience.

Many guests describe the scenery as “fantastic,” emphasizing the unique perspective on the glacier that a boat allows. The waterfall, Nugget Falls, is a highlight for many, with a guide or narration providing context for its impressive height and volume.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

While the primary focus is on the glacier and waterfalls, some travelers report spotting local wildlife, such as birds or even seals near the icebergs. These sightings can elevate the experience from simply scenic to truly memorable.

Snacks and Comfort

The tour includes snacks, which come in handy after paddling or during breaks. The provided gear—rain jackets, boots, and life jackets—help ensure you’re comfortable regardless of weather. As Juneau’s weather can be unpredictable, having proper rain gear is essential, and the tour does a good job of preparing guests.

Group Size and Guide Skills

Small groups (up to 19 guests) foster a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. According to reviews, guides like Tyler and Leann are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding personality and insight to the trip. However, a few reviews mention that guide experience varies; some guests felt the instruction was a bit hurried or not as detailed as they’d hoped, which could be important if you’re new to paddling or safety-conscious.

Summary of the Experience

The entire tour lasts roughly four hours, including transportation, paddling, and sightseeing. The pace is leisurely enough to enjoy the scenery, but paddling can be tiring, especially in windy conditions or if you’re not used to physical activity. The cost of $259 per person is a fair price considering the inclusions—transportation, gear, snacks, guide, and the unique opportunity to paddle close to the glacier.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the “excellent guides,” noting that their knowledge and friendliness enhance the trip. One reviewer said, “Our guide Tyler was a lot of fun,” and many appreciated the opportunity to see the glacier “up close and personal.” Others, however, point out the physical demands, with comments like, “Lots of work! And windy,” suggesting that this adventure isn’t for everyone.

Some guests express concern about the paddling effort being more than expected, with one noting, “More work rowing than expected, picture was misleading bc didn’t get that close to glacier at all.” This highlights the importance of being prepared physically and understanding that paddling is part of the fun and challenge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s clear that this tour suits active travelers comfortable with moderate physical exertion. It offers an authentic, intimate view of Mendenhall Glacier that’s hard to match from a bus or boat tour alone. Families with older children, fitness-oriented travelers, and those keen on a hands-on experience will find it rewarding.

Practicalities and Tips

• Book well in advance, especially if visiting during peak summer months, as this tour is popular.
• Wear comfortable clothing and layers; weather can change quickly.
• Be prepared for paddling; it’s part of the experience, not just a scenic cruise.
• If you have shoulder problems or dislike cold and rain, consider your comfort level carefully.
• The tour is non-refundable, so double-check your schedule before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure offers a rare chance to see the glacier from a personal perspective—paddling close enough to feel the ice’s chill and hear the roar of Nugget Falls. It balances scenery and activity well, especially if you enjoy physical pursuits in beautiful surroundings. Guides generally add value with their insights, and the included gear and snacks make the journey more comfortable.

While it’s not the best choice if you’re seeking a leisurely, purely scenic experience or if you’re unsure about paddling, it’s a standout option for those wanting to combine outdoor exercise with Alaska’s striking landscapes. It’s a truly memorable way to connect with the wilderness—provided you’re ready for a bit of a workout.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Those aged 13 to 17 need a signed parental consent form if participating without a parent or guardian. The tour involves paddling, so consider your child’s physical ability and comfort with outdoor weather.

What’s included in the tour price?
The $259 fee covers transportation, all necessary equipment (rain gear, life jackets, boots), snacks, and guided paddle time. It also includes a worry-free shore excursion guarantee.

How physically demanding is the paddling?
Guests describe the paddling as moderate—more work than a casual boat ride. It involves rowing a two-person canoe for about 45-60 minutes each way, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers suitable for variable weather, including rain jackets and boots provided by the tour. Comfortable clothing that can get wet is advisable.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum size is 19 travelers, which helps ensure a personalized experience and enough time for photos and questions.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
While the main focus is on the glacier and waterfalls, some guests report seeing local birds or seals near icebergs, adding a touch of wildlife to the scenery.

In the end, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure offers a distinctive, engaging way to get close to Alaska’s icy giants. It’s best enjoyed by those ready for a little physical activity and eager to experience the natural splendor in an intimate setting. If you’re looking for an authentic, active day that offers memorable views and a sense of adventure, this tour is worth considering—just come prepared to paddle and embrace the outdoors.