Paddle across Mendenhall Lake and hike the rocky shoreline for close-up views of the glacier’s toe and ice features. This half-day shore excursion combines open-water paddling, wildlife sightings, and interpretive guides for a front-row look at a retreating Alaskan glacier.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low mist hangs over Mendenhall Lake as paddles bite the cold water and the glacier looms on the horizon like an ancient machine still at work. Guides fit guests with rubber boots and life vests, brief the group, and launch from a rocky shoreline; the lake pushes against the canoe, urging steady strokes as you pass nesting Arctic terns and the distant curtain of Nugget Falls.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Requires a high level of aerobic fitness and upper-body endurance for sustained paddling plus agility for rocky shoreline hiking.
Wildlife
History
Mendenhall is an outlet of the Juneau Icefield; its terminus has retreated markedly since the Little Ice Age, offering a visible record of regional climate shifts.
Conservation
The glacier’s recession highlights climate impacts; stay on designated routes, pack out waste, and minimize disturbance to wildlife and nesting birds.
Reserve your spot on the Juneau Shore Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for cold and wet
Bring a waterproof outer layer and insulating mid-layer — lake spray and wind make conditions colder than the air temperature suggests.
Footwear with ankle support
Wear sturdy hiking boots that fit your rented rubber boots to handle slick bedrock and loose talus near the glacier.
Know the physical demands
Participants should be able to paddle 5–6 miles and hike ~2 miles on uneven terrain; disclose medical conditions and follow weight limits.
Protect eyes and skin
Use sunglasses with side protection and high-SPF sunscreen; ice glare and reflected UV are stronger on the lake.
Waterproof breathable jacket
Keeps rain and spray off during paddling and blocks wind chill on the lake.
summer
Ankle-support hiking boots
Provide traction and protect ankles while hiking on uneven, wet bedrock and talus.
Dry bag (small)
Keeps layers, camera, and snacks dry in the canoe.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare when looking toward ice and open water for safer navigation and comfort.
summer