Exploring Mendenhall Glacier: A Convenient Trolley Tour From Juneau's Cruise Dock
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors. No hiking experience required.
Overview
Just minutes from Juneau’s cruise docks, the Mendenhall Glacier trolley tour delivers an easy, narrated journey from town to ice. Discover glacier views, forest trails, and local insights on this approachable three-hour adventure.
Exploring Mendenhall Glacier: A Convenient Trolley Tour From Juneau's Cruise Dock
Select participants and date
Minutes away from the bustling cruise docks of downtown Juneau, Alaska, the landscape shifts dramatically as the Mendenhall Glacier trolley tour rolls away from the urban edge and toward a vast field of ice and old-growth forest. This accessible three-hour excursion offers travelers a lens into the iconic frozen expanse without the need for strenuous hiking or complicated logistics.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to be at the Goldbelt Tramway pick-up point at least 10 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding, especially during cruise season.
Dress in Layers
Alaskan weather shifts quickly; wear waterproof outer layers and warm undergarments to stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
The glacier’s details and wildlife appear at varying distances; a zoom lens or smartphone with optical zoom will capture better shots.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Paved and easy trails surround the visitor center, but sturdy shoes help with wet or uneven patches near the glacier’s edge.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mountain goats frequently perch on nearby cliffs.
- Salmon runs can be observed in Mendenhall River during spawning season.
History
The Mendenhall Glacier has been a defining feature of the Juneau area for thousands of years and holds significant cultural importance for the Tlingit people who have lived in this region for centuries.
Conservation
Efforts by the U.S. Forest Service and local organizations focus on protecting the glacier’s environment amid climate change, promoting responsible tourism to minimize ecological impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Juneau
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
To handle sudden rain showers and cold winds common in Southeast Alaska.
summer specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
A good pair of walking shoes helps navigate paved and mildly uneven trails around the visitor center.
Binoculars
Useful for spotting wildlife like mountain goats or birds from a distance.
Camera or Smartphone
Captures the stunning glacier views and changing light conditions.