Alaska Travel Adventures: Juneau Kayaking & Whale Watching - Juneau

Alaska Travel Adventures: Juneau Kayaking & Whale Watching

Juneaumoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Basic fitness and stamina for paddling are recommended; not suitable for severe mobility issues.

Overview

Discover Juneau’s wild beauty with Alaska Travel Adventures—kayak near glaciers, watch whales breach, and pan for gold on authentic local tours. Step beyond the typical cruise port experience and get into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.

Details

Juneau, Alaska’s vibrant capital, sits where forested mountains meet the icy waters of the Inside Passage. Here, Alaska Travel Adventures offers a lineup of immersive trips that connect visitors to the region's powerful natural elements and history. From glacial kayaking on Mendenhall Lake to whale watching tours that bring you close to humpbacks breaching against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, their trips are designed to connect you with Alaska’s wild character firsthand.

Mendenhall Lake serves as a gateway to the iconic Mendenhall Glacier, a massive quiet force of blue ice slowly carving out the landscape. The company's kayaking adventures on this pristine lake invite paddlers to glide past towering icebergs and watch for bald eagles perched along the shore. For those who prefer to float, the Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip lets you drift on calm waters while spotting wildlife in peaceful surroundings.

Off the water, Alaska Travel Adventures highlights Juneau's gold rush past with historic gold mining and panning tours where guests can try their luck in classic creek beds, followed by a traditional salmon bake that celebrates Alaska’s seafood heritage. Whale watching trips provide another dimension, with expert guides sharing insights on humpback behavior and the marine ecosystem.

The team’s knowledgeable guides are more than instructors—they are storytellers, sharing local lore, natural history, and ensuring safety with good humor and a steady pace. Combined with thoughtful touches like warm drinks after cold paddling sessions and comfortable transport, the company strikes a balance between adventure and accessibility.

Whether you're chasing the thrill of spotting breaching whales, paddling beneath glacier cliffs, or mining for gold like the early settlers, Alaska Travel Adventures stands as a genuine gateway to Juneau’s unparalleled wilderness experience.

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers

Weather on the water can shift quickly; bring moisture-wicking base layers plus waterproof outerwear.

Bring binoculars for wildlife

A good pair of binoculars enhances spotting whales, eagles, and mountain goats during tours.

Pace yourself on water trips

Guides accommodate all skill levels, but having some basic paddling stamina improves your experience.

Prepare for limited cell service

Remote tour areas may have spotty connectivity; plan accordingly for communication and navigation.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Whale Point viewpoint near Mendenhall Glacier
  • Secluded hiking trails around Gold Creek

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales
  • Bald eagles

History

Juneau’s gold mining heritage dates back to the late 19th century, with Gold Creek hosting some of the earliest and richest claims.

Conservation

Tours emphasize minimizing wildlife disturbance and preserving the fragile glacial ecosystem through responsible practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning for calm water
Late afternoon for warm light on glaciers
Golden hour near sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
  • Whale watching charters on the water
  • Gold Creek area

What to Photograph

Glacier ice formations
Whales breaching
Salmon bake campfires

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Protects against chilly rain and wind common during lake and sea tours.

spring specific

Insulating layers

Essential

Keeps warm as temperatures drop, especially on glacier float and kayaking trips.

fall specific

Waterproof boots or shoes

Essential

Useful for shore landings and keeping feet dry during water-based activities.

summer specific

Binoculars

Enhances wildlife watching, especially for whale spotting and birding.

Reviews