Juneau’s most rewarding tours center around the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding wilderness. I’ve explored dozens of excursions in Alaska’s capital, and the standouts consistently deliver unforgettable experiences. The 5-hour Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure combines paddling and hiking for an intimate look at the glacier’s features. For photographers and nature lovers, the Lake Canoe Tour offers exceptional views and a gentle pace. The Helicopter Tour with glacier landing remains a splurge-worthy classic, while adding dogsledding creates the ultimate Alaskan experience. Kayaking Mendenhall Lake provides a peaceful alternative with excellent value. Let’s explore these top Juneau adventures worth every penny.
Good To Know
- The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour offers a personalized 5-hour experience with activities like paddling and hiking near the glacier.
- The Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour provides an up-close view of the glacier, suitable for first-time paddlers and praised for its scenery.
- The Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk offers a 52-minute tour with a helicopter flight and glacier walk, with a high recommendation rate.
- The Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience combines a helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield and a dog sledding adventure, a popular choice among travelers.
- The Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour offers a 3.5-hour guided tour around the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, with opportunities to spot native wildlife.
Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour
The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour offers an exceptional opportunity for visitors to explore the stunning natural wonders of Juneau, Alaska. This highly-rated 5-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the breathtaking Tongass National Forest, culminating in an up-close encounter with the majestic Mendenhall Glacier.
Participants will paddle across the serene Mendenhall Lake, navigating through icebergs and spotting awe-inspiring waterfalls. The guided hike near the glacier provides a chance to witness the ever-changing glacial landscape, including ice caves and moulins.
With a maximum group size of 14, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. Guests will be equipped with all necessary gear, including rain jackets, waterproof boots, and life vests.
The knowledgeable guides are praised for their ability to enhance the tour with engaging insights and a fun, educational approach. Unforgettable moments, such as wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery, make this tour a must-do activity for anyone visiting Juneau.
Read our full review: Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour
A Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of Juneau’s iconic glacier from a serene, up-close vantage point.
The tour includes canoe lessons, making it suitable for first-time paddlers. Canoeing the tranquil waters enhances the chances of spotting wildlife. Highlights include views of arctic cliffs, icebergs, and pristine blue ice.
Round-trip transportation from cruise ship docks is provided, along with bottled water, snacks, hot beverages, and rain gear. The tour is canoe-only and doesn’t include hiking.
Participants must be at least 12 years old, weigh between 90-240 lbs, and be in good physical condition. With a 5.0 rating from over 1,020 reviews, the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides who enhance the experience.
Many reviews emphasize the breathtaking scenery and rewarding physical activity of canoeing to the glacier.
Read our full review: Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk
One of the top Juneau shore excursions is the Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk. This 52-minute adventure includes a round-trip helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield and a guided walk on the Herbert Glacier. With 490 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, this experience offers travelers the opportunity to learn about the Alaskan wilderness and capture stunning photographs.
The itinerary begins with a 15-minute helicopter flight to the Coastal Helicopters base, followed by 22 minutes at the Herbert Glacier, where a pilot-guide provides commentary on the local geology. The tour then spends 15 minutes exploring the Juneau Icefield before returning to the starting point. Included in the price are transportation, specialized equipment, and gratuities.
Weighing in at 500 lbs per passenger, this ADA-accessible tour is subject to weather conditions, with cancellations offering alternative times or refunds. Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable staff, and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Read our full review: Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk Review
Book now: Check availability
Juneau Shore Excursions: Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience
As one of the most popular shore excursions in Juneau, the Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
With a 4.6-star rating from 103 reviews, this tour combines a breathtaking helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield with an exhilarating dog sledding experience on a glacier.
The tour includes round-trip helicopter transportation, a dog mushing session, and all necessary equipment, making it a hassle-free and well-organized adventure.
Passengers can expect knowledgeable pilots and passionate dog mushers who enhance the experience with their expertise. The small group size of up to 12 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized journey through the Alaskan backcountry.
While weather cancellations can be a concern, the tour operator offers alternative times or full refunds, and most reviewers highlight the overall quality of the experience.
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Juneau, the Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience is a top-rated choice.
Read our full review: Juneau Shore Excursions: Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour
For those seeking a more serene and immersive experience in Juneau’s natural wonders, the Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour offers a captivating opportunity to paddle through the heart of the Tongass National Forest.
This 3.5-hour excursion takes adventurers on a guided tour around Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, providing the chance to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat. With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and personalized adventure.
The tour is family-friendly, with a minimum weight requirement of 40 lbs and accommodations for children. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and participants should be in moderate physical condition.
Travelers will be equipped with full rain gear and given snacks, transportation, and all necessary permits and gratuities. While past reviews highlight the stunning scenery and glacier views, some have reported issues with equipment and communication from guides.
Ultimately, the Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take in Juneau’s breathtaking natural landscape.
Read our full review: Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour
The Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour offers a unique and personalized way to explore the charming city of Juneau. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 37 travelers, this tour provides an exceptional experience led by knowledgeable and accommodating guides, particularly James.
Guests can customize their tour, stopping for photos, restrooms, and even fudge sampling, all while enjoying the convenience of hassle-free pickup from downtown Juneau, the cruise port, or shuttle stops.
The tour’s highlights include the opportunity to explore Juneau in a private pedicab and learn about the city’s history and attractions. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller and service animal friendly, making it suitable for most travelers.
Infants must sit on laps, but the overall experience is highly recommended for history enthusiasts and those seeking a personalized adventure in Juneau.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, booking the Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour is a convenient and rewarding way to discover the city.
Read our full review: Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Juneau?
The best time to visit Juneau is during the summer months, typically between May and September. This is when the weather is mild, with longer daylight hours and plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s natural wonders.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is appropriate for all members of your group.
What Should I Bring on the Glacier Tours?
When going on a glacier tour, it’s important to bring warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, and snacks. Bringing trekking poles can also be helpful for navigating the uneven terrain. Plus, a camera is essential for capturing the stunning glacial landscapes.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
You can bring your own camera equipment on the glacier tours. Most tour providers encourage visitors to capture the stunning scenery, but they may have rules about tripods or other large equipment to ensure the safety of all participants.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many tours in Juneau are wheelchair-accessible, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to fully participate. It’s best to check with each tour operator for specific accessibility details to ensure the tour meets your needs.
The Sum Up
Juneau offers a wealth of exciting tour options for visitors. From awe-inspiring glacier hikes to thrilling helicopter rides, there’s something to suit every adventurer’s taste. Whether you’re seeking a serene kayak tour or a private pedicab experience, Juneau’s diverse range of tours provides unforgettable opportunities to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.