Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking

Nestled amidst the icy embrace of Mendenhall Glacier, a world of wonder awaits those who embark on the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking adventure.

As the gentle waves caress the sleek hull of the kayak, participants are transported into a realm of natural beauty and tranquility.

But there is more to this experience than meets the eye. Curiosity stirs within, for there are tales to be told, secrets to be discovered, and unexpected encounters that lie ahead.

Step into the world of Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking, and let the journey unfold.

Good To Know

• The tour offers a guided kayak experience in the waters around Mendenhall Glacier, with the possibility of spotting bald eagles and humpback whales.
• The tour provides all necessary equipment, instruction, snacks, and transportation.
• The meeting place for the tour is under the cables of the Mt. Roberts Tram in Juneau.
• The tour may be affected by weather conditions, and if canceled, an alternative date or full refund is offered.

Tour Details and Logistics

When planning your Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking adventure, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the tour details and logistics.

The meeting point for this guided tour is on the sidewalk, under the cables of the Mt. Roberts Tram in Juneau. Once you arrive, all the necessary equipment will be provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. From lifejackets to kayaks, you’ll have everything you need to navigate the waters around Mendenhall Glacier.

The tour includes a paddling primer provided by the guide, so even beginners can feel confident on the water. Along with the equipment, instruction, and round-trip transportation, a snack will also be provided to keep you energized during your approximately 2-hour paddle.

It’s important to note that this activity isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems and there are weight requirements for both the lifejacket and kayak cockpit.

Obstructed View of the Glacier

Pines and houses obscure the breathtaking view of the Mendenhall Glacier. Despite the obstruction, there are alternative viewpoints that offer glimpses of the glacier’s majesty.

Kayakers on the tour may not be able to fully appreciate the glacier’s grandeur, but they have the opportunity to witness other natural wonders. The bay where the kayak tour takes place provides a chance to spot wildlife, although the chances of seeing a whale are low. Instead, visitors may have the pleasure of observing Bald Eagles soaring overhead and Sea Lions frolicking in the water.

While the obstructed view of the glacier may be disappointing, the wildlife sightings offer their own unique and captivating experience.

Disgusting Salmon Farm

Despite the disappointment of the obstructed view of the Mendenhall Glacier, the tour also revealed a surprising and unsightly sight – a Salmon Farm. Located in the calm waters at the back of the bay, the Salmon Farm stood out as a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The sight of the farm was described as disgusting, raising environmental concerns among tour participants.

Salmon Farm Impact	Environmental Concerns
Odor	Pollution of surrounding waters
Crowded pens	Spread of diseases to wild salmon
Fish waste	Negative impact on local ecosystem
Use of antibiotics	Potential harm to human health
Escaped farmed salmon	Genetic contamination of wild salmon

The presence of the Salmon Farm served as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and the preservation of natural habitats. It highlighted the need for responsible and sustainable practices to ensure the protection of the environment for future generations.

Limited Glacier Encounter

The tour participants expressed their disappointment with the limited encounter they’d with the Mendenhall Glacier. Despite their anticipation of a close encounter with the glacier, they found it to be far off. This left some feeling unsatisfied and wishing for a more immersive experience.

To emphasize this point:

• The expectation of a close encounter with the glacier wasn’t met.
• Other tours allow paddlers to traverse the glacial melt pool right at the glacier, offering a more intimate experience.
• Some participants were aware of alternative glacier tours that offered a better opportunity to get up close and personal with the majestic Mendenhall Glacier.

Nevertheless, even though the encounter with the glacier was limited, the tour was still enjoyable. The location itself was described as very pretty, providing a picturesque backdrop for the kayaking experience.

Trip Cut Short

Unfortunately, the wind picking up in the afternoon resulted in the trip being cut short, limiting the amount of time available for kayaking due to choppy waters. The impact of the wind was felt as it created waves that made the kayaking experience more challenging and unsafe. It was a disappointment for the participants who were looking forward to a longer and uninterrupted kayaking adventure.

The recommendation for future trips is to schedule the activity in the morning to avoid the wind picking up later in the day. Despite the shortened duration, the location of the trip was still considered very pretty, with stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier and the surrounding landscape.

Overall Experience and Recommendations

With the trip being cut short due to the wind picking up in the afternoon, participants still had an enjoyable experience exploring the waters around Mendenhall Glacier. The location of the tour, with its picturesque surroundings, provided a stunning backdrop for kayaking.

Despite not being able to get as close to the glacier as some participants had hoped, the overall experience was still satisfying. The tour personnel were friendly and knowledgeable, providing a paddling primer and ensuring that all equipment was in good quality.

The recommendation is to take the tour in the morning to avoid the possibility of the trip being cut short by the wind. This way, participants can fully enjoy the beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and its surroundings.

Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking Tour?

Age restrictions and weight limits apply to the Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking tour. Children 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult, and children 13-17 need a signed parental consent. The tour has a minimum weight requirement of 40 pounds and a maximum weight requirement based on waist size.

What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for Participants on the Tour?

The maximum weight limit for participants on the tour is determined by waist size to fit into the kayak cockpit, with an approximate maximum of 250lbs. There are also other participant restrictions to consider.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, alternative options may be available. It is recommended to contact the tour provider for more information on accessibility options or to explore other accessible tours in the area.

What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Poor Weather?

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, guests have the option of rescheduling for an alternative date or receiving a full refund. The tour operator give you flexibility and ensure customer satisfaction in such situations.

Is There a Minimum Number of Travelers Required for the Tour to Take Place?

Yes, there is a minimum number of travelers required for the tour to take place. Plus, there are age restrictions, as children 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult and children 13-17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate without a parent or guardian. There is also a weight limit, with a minimum weight requirement of 40 pounds to fit into the required lifejacket and a maximum weight requirement that depends on waist size to fit into the kayak cockpit (approximately 250lbs).

The Sum Up

Overall, Mendenhall Glacier View Sea Kayaking offers a thrilling adventure that allows participants to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier and its surrounding waters.

While there may be some limitations and obstacles along the way, the experience promises unforgettable moments and a chance to connect with nature in a unique and memorable way.

Whether spotting bald eagles soaring above or witnessing humpback whales in their natural habitat, this guided tour provides a seamless and exciting journey for all nature enthusiasts.