Paddling to Ice: Inside the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure
A five‑hour canoe and hull-cracking glance at Alaska’s shifting ice—accessible, instructive, and close enough to hear it breathe.
The canoe slips away from the beach with a soft, chewing sound—ice greeting wood and nylon—while Juneau’s mountains hold their breath. Water the color of wet pewter parts around the bow, and tiny bergy bits tick like glass against the hull. Ahead, the face of Mendenhall Glacier rises like a weathered wall, layered in blue and white, its surface scabbed with moraines and crevasses. Your guide calls out a direction; you lean in, paddle in time, and the lake answers with a slick, steady ripple that seems to be pulling you into a private corner of the Tongass National Forest.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in layers and bring a dry bag
Temperatures on the lake feel several degrees colder than shore—pack wicking base layers, an insulating midlayer, and a waterproof shell; keep electronics in a dry bag.
Arrive early and check tides/weather
Morning launches typically have calmer water and better light for photos; wind can pick up in the afternoon.
Protect camera gear from spray
Use a polarizer to cut glare and keep a lens cloth handy—cold spray can quickly fog lenses and shorten battery life.
Listen to your guide on wildlife distance
Harbor seals and eagles frequent the lake; maintain the recommended distance to avoid disturbance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Nugget Falls viewpoint: a short detour with big waterfall drama
- •East shore of Mendenhall Lake: quieter shoreline for reflective photos
Wildlife
Harbor seals, Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Mendenhall is an active site for glacial monitoring; practice low-impact travel—pack out trash, stay on designated paths, and support local conservation programs.
The glacier sits within the Tongass National Forest and on traditional Tlingit territory; the glacier’s recent retreat has reshaped local travel routes and ecosystems.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Early-season iceberg shapes
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Colder water temperatures
Spring offers dynamic ice formations and quieter beaches but expect chilly conditions and variable weather—dress warmer than you think.
summer
Best for: Calmest water, Longest daylight hours
Challenges: Bigger crowds, Occasional afternoon winds
Summer is peak season for calm paddling and extended daylight, making it the most straightforward choice for photography and shore hikes.
fall
Best for: Crisp light for photos, Fewer visitors
Challenges: Shortening days, More rain and wind
Fall compresses the season—colors deepen and crowds thin, but weather becomes more variable and water colder.
winter
Best for: Glacial texture observation from a distance, Quiet, introspective visits
Challenges: Limited tour availability, Short daylight and cold
Winter offers stark scenery but tours are rare and conditions can be icy and unforgiving—most operators run few or no trips.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof jacket and pantsEssential
A breathable waterproof outer keeps you warm and dry from spray and light rain.
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Sturdy, grippy boots protect your feet on wet, rocky moraine and beach landings.
Dry bag for electronicsEssential
Protect a camera, phone, and spare batteries from spray and accidental dunking.
Insulating midlayer (fleece or wool)Essential
Retains warmth even if damp and is easy to shed when the sun comes out.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The full experience runs about five hours from briefing to return; expect roughly 2–3 miles of paddling total and a short interpretive hike of up to a mile.
Is prior paddling experience required?
No—guides provide instruction and PFDs; basic fitness and comfort in a canoe are recommended.
What happens if weather is bad?
Operators monitor conditions and may reschedule or cancel for safety; free cancellation is typically offered per the tour policy.
Will we see the ice caves?
Ice caves depend on seasonal conditions and glacier retreat; guides will take you to safe viewpoints and explain current access limitations.
Are children allowed?
Policies vary by operator, but many allow older children who can follow safety instructions; check age and weight limits when booking.
What wildlife might we encounter?
Common sightings include harbor seals, bald eagles, and occasional black bears along shorelines; guides maintain safe viewing distances.
What to Pack
Waterproof jacket (protection from spray), layered clothing (temperature control), waterproof hiking boots (uneven moraine), dry bag for electronics (protect camera/phone)
Did You Know
Mendenhall Glacier has retreated nearly 1.5 miles since the early 20th century, carving Mendenhall Lake as it thinned and receded—a visible record of recent climate change.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early—summer fills fast; arrive 30–60 minutes before departure for check-in; expect limited cell service on the lake; tip guides in cash or via operator policy.
Local Flavor
After the tour, head back to Juneau’s waterfront for fresh seafood—Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a local favorite for shellfish, and the Red Dog Saloon offers a slice of classic Alaskan bar culture; the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides additional interpretive exhibits.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Juneau International Airport (JNU). Driving distance: ~12 miles / 20–30 minutes from downtown Juneau to the trailhead/launch area. Cell service: spotty on the lake; expect reception onshore. Permits: no special permits for the public recreation area, but commercial operators hold required permits—book tours in advance.
Sustainability Note
The glacier and surrounding forests are sensitive—pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife or shoreline vegetation, and follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact.