Experience Juneau’s rugged wilderness with M & M Tours, where hikes and kayaks bring you close to Alaska’s raw beauty. From forest trails to glacier views, this guide offers practical tips and vivid insights for adventurers of all levels.
Adventure Tips
Hydrate Frequently
Alaska’s humid air and exertion on uneven terrain can lead to unnoticed dehydration. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trail conditions vary from rocky to muddy. Waterproof boots with good ankle support prevent injury and keep you comfortable.
Start Early
Early starts avoid afternoon showers common in summer and maximize daylight, especially for longer excursions like glacier views.
Respect Wildlife
Bears and eagles share these trails. Keep distance, make noise to alert animals of your presence, and never feed wildlife.
Get Inspired: Outdoor Adventures with M & M Tours in Juneau, AK
Juneau, Alaska, stands as a gateway not only to wilderness but to experiences that demand your full attention. With M & M Tours guiding the way, the call of the wild becomes accessible and compelling. One of their standout offerings is the Back Loop Trail hike—a moderately challenging route stretching just over 4 miles with an elevation gain of roughly 900 feet. The trail cuts through dense forest, where spruce and cedar trees sway with purpose, as if gesturing you forward. Stream crossings dare you to pick your footing carefully, while occasional clearings open to sweeping views of Baranof Island’s rugged coastline.
Starting early enhances your experience. The trail is cool under the forest canopy, but glimpses of sunlight break through in spots, warming the mossy ground. Expect muddy patches along the way, especially in spring and fall. Durable, waterproof boots and trekking poles are smart choices here. M & M Tours provides knowledgeable guides who share local stories and point out native plants, adding layers to your journey that solo hikers might miss.
Planning your hike around low tide can reveal hidden tide pools near the trail’s coastal sections. Pack plenty of water; the exertion coupled with Alaska’s unpredictable humidity can quietly dehydrate you. Rest stops on rocky outcrops offer moments to scan the horizon for bald eagles or the occasional black bear moving with guarded intent through the brush.
M & M Tours also specializes in glacier views and whale-watching kayak trips, combining land and sea adventures for a full-day immersion. Their gear is well-maintained and guides attentive to safety, helping moderate hikers push just enough to embrace the challenge while respecting the landscape’s fierce independence. Whether you are a casual adventurer or seek deeper wilderness engagement, their trips tailor to every level.
Getting to Juneau requires a ferry or flight, so plan your schedule with some flexibility. Local accommodations blend comfort with rustic charm, setting the stage for early morning starts or lingering sunsets over Gastineau Channel. In all, M & M Tours represents more than an outdoor activity provider; it is your partner in discovering Juneau’s wild face—untamed, raw, and inviting.
This is an Alaska adventure that demands respect, jackets, boots, and a spirit attuned to Alaska’s rhythm. The wilderness here is fiercely itself, always offering a chance to step outside routine and into an experience that builds confidence and wonder in equal measure.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Juneau
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Frequently Asked Questions
What wildlife might I see on the M & M Tours trails?
Expect to spot bald eagles soaring above and curious black bears in the distance. Smaller mammals like marmots and various bird species also frequent the area.
How technical is the terrain on these hikes?
Trails include uneven ground, mud, and moderate elevation gains but require no advanced technical skills—basic hiking experience and cautious footing suffice.
Are there guided kayak options as well?
Yes. M & M Tours offers guided sea kayaking trips near Juneau’s coastline, often combined with glacier viewing and wildlife spotting.
Should I be prepared for tides during hikes?
Some coastal trail sections are accessible at low tide, revealing tide pools and rocky flats, so checking tide schedules enhances safety and experience.
What’s the best time of day for photography on the trails?
Early morning light and late afternoon offer angled sunlight through trees, with golden hour enhancing landscape colors and wildlife visibility.
How to handle encounters with bears on the trail?
Make noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence. If you see one, keep calm, stand your ground, and slowly back away without turning your back.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Keeps feet dry and supported through wet, muddy trail conditions common in spring and fall.
Layered Clothing
Dressing in layers adapts to Alaska’s shifting weather, from chilly mornings to midday warmth.
Trekking Poles
Aid with balance and reduce fatigue on steep or slippery sections of the trail.
Water Bottle or Hydration System
Essential for maintaining hydration throughout the moderately strenuous hike.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Hidden Lake Overlook offers a rarely crowded vantage point with expansive views over Juneau’s mountains."
- "The narrow passage along the Gastineau Channel reveals curious tide pools and resilient coastal flora."
Wildlife
- "Bald eagles perch like watchful sentries in tall spruce trees."
- "Black bears forage along berry patches near trails, mostly early morning or late evening."
History
"Juneau’s hiking paths trace back to Tlingit indigenous routes, linking natural landmarks that hold cultural significance and stories of early Alaska settlers."