moderate
4–5 hours
Moderate fitness recommended for manageable glacier trails and boat ride duration
Journey through Southeast Alaska's wild heart with a narrated bus tour to Mendenhall Glacier followed by thrilling whale watching on the pristine waters near Juneau. Discover why this combo adventure is a can't-miss on any Alaskan itinerary.
Adult $189, Child $160, Lap Child Free | 4 Hours
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and the thrill of whale watching in Juneau. This unique combo tour offers a narrated bus ride through stunning landscapes, followed by a 2-hour boat adventure to see majestic whales. Explore the glacier's trails and wildlife, making unforgettable memories in Southeast Alaska.
Nothing quite prepares you for the sprawling slabs of jagged ice, reflecting the sunlight in opalescent hues of blue-green. A visit to this rarity is the perfect complement to a whale watching expedition in Juneau. Taking advantage of these two exciting options as a combo tour allows you to be as efficient as possible with your time here. Located between downtown Juneau and Auke Bay in the Tongass National Forest, the glacier is twelve miles long from its origin on the Juneau Icefield to its terminus at Mendenhall Lake.
On this tour, you will take one of our comfortable tour buses from downtown Juneau on a 20-minute, narrated tour through Juneau and Mendenhall Valley to Auke Bay. In Auke Bay you will board one of our comfortable boats and head out on a 2-hour whale watching experience. Upon returning to the harbor you will be escorted back to the bus for a quick trip inland to Mendenhall Glacier. You will have approximately 45 to 60 minutes to explore the area around the magnificent glacier. You may take photos, walk the trails around Mendenhall Lake, and visit the informative visitor's center to learn more about the history and science behind the glacier. Be sure to keep an eye out for abundant wildlife such as black bears, bald eagles and mountain goats, as well as spawning salmon if the season is right!
Southeast Alaska's weather changes quickly; layering keeps you comfortable from glacier trails to boat decks.
Enhance your whale and wildlife viewing by bringing binoculars for distant sightings.
Trails near the glacier can be wet and slippery; sturdy waterproof shoes improve traction.
Bring water and light snacks to stay energized during the 2-hour boat excursion and hikes.
Mendenhall Glacier has been retreating since the early 20th century, reflecting larger climate changes.
Tours emphasize low-impact practices to protect delicate glacial landscapes and marine habitats.
Keeps your feet dry and secure on wet, uneven glacier trails.
summer specific
Adjust for cool glacier winds and warmer sun on the boat deck.
summer specific
Provides clearer views of whales and distant wildlife.
Protects against sudden rain and sea spray during the boat trip.
summer specific