Bikes, Glacier Views, and Microbrews in Juneau

Exploring Bikes, Glacier Views, and Microbrews in Juneau

If you’re looking for a way to see Juneau’s incredible natural beauty while staying active and sampling local brews, this Bikes, Glacier Views, and Microbrews tour offers an engaging blend of outdoor fun and cultural flavor. From biking along peaceful trails to standing face-to-face with the mighty Mendenhall Glacier, this experience delivers both memorable scenery and delicious local beer tastings—all in about four hours.

What we love about this tour is how it combines three distinct elements: the scenic bike ride, the chance to explore the glacier area independently, and a refreshing visit to a local brewery. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you get insider insights without feeling rushed. The only caveat might be the moderate physical effort involved in the biking segments, which could be a consideration for some travelers. This experience is ideal for active explorers who want an authentic taste of Juneau’s wilderness and local culture in one go.

Good To Know

• Balanced outdoor activity and relaxation: Bike ride through lush forests and visit the glacier, then unwind with local beers.
• Expert-guided experience: Guides like Fletch provide engaging commentary and tailored insights, making the trip educational and fun.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier, surrounding lakes, and Auke Bay.
• Flexibility and comfort: Includes optional rain gear and pickups, making the trip accessible regardless of weather.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience.
• Value-wise: At about $198, considering the bike ride, glacier exploration, and beer tasting, this is a well-rounded experience in Juneau.

How the Tour Unfolds: A Detailed Look

The Scenic Drive to Mendenhall Valley

The adventure begins with a 20-minute van ride from downtown Juneau, traveling along the Gastineau Channel. This route alone offers a scenic introduction to the area, with water views and glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Your guide, possibly someone like Fletch based on reviews, will provide interesting commentary about what you’re passing, setting the tone for the experience ahead.

The Bike Ride Through Wilderness Trails

Once at the Mendenhall Valley, you’ll be fitted with bikes, helmets, and rain gear if needed, preparing for your 4-mile ride. The trail over to Mendenhall Lake is flat and well-maintained, flowing through the lush Tongass National Forest. Expect to see vibrant plant life, towering trees, and perhaps some wildlife or bird activity along the way.

Traveling alongside the Mendenhall River, you’ll get fantastic views of the glacier’s eastern face. Reviewers like Neal_M mentioned, “We had such a lovely time riding bikes through the Tongass and to the Mendenhall Glacier,” highlighting how the ride keeps a good pace and offers hidden spots many visitors miss.

A Brief Walk to View the Western Glacier Face

Arriving at the West Glacier Trailhead, you’ll take a short walk to the lake, where the western face of Mendenhall Glacier appears dramatically. Your guide will point out flora and discuss the landscape’s natural features, adding depth to the scenery. Neal_M appreciated the “quiet, scenic view,” making this stop feel intimate and genuine.

Return Ride in the Valley

Back on the bikes, you’ll cycle through two more trails in the Mendenhall Valley, covering another 4 miles. This part of the tour is especially praised for its ease—reviewers like Rhonda_W called the bike ride “easy” and appreciated the personable, informative guide. The trails wind through the forest, offering different perspectives of the glacier and surrounding landscape, which makes for excellent photo opportunities.

Free Exploration at Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

The highlight for many is the 45-minute free time at the visitor center. Here, you can walk the trails, stand in awe of the glacier’s scale, or just soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The visitor center offers educational exhibits and panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for a quick but meaningful visit.

Tasting Local Microbrews at Forbidden Peak Brewery

A short drive from the glacier takes you to Forbidden Peak Brewery, where you’ll indulge in a custom flight of local beers while gazing out over Auke Bay. This stop is appreciated for offering a laid-back atmosphere and authentic local flavors. As Rhonda_W noted, “Fletch was knowledgeable and very personable,” making the brewery visit a highlight of the trip.

Return to Downtown Juneau

After the brewery session, your guide will drive you back to the meeting point in downtown Juneau, completing your roughly four-hour adventure. The convenience of pickup and drop-off adds to the overall ease of the experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

A Well-Balanced Mix of Activities

This tour strikes a smart balance between physical activity, scenic sightseeing, and relaxing leisure. The bike ride through the national forest trails is gentle enough for most moderately fit travelers, but still offers enough exercise to feel satisfying. The free time at the glacier provides a personal touch, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Authentic Nature & Local Flavor

The inclusion of a microbrewery makes this experience stand apart. Sampling craft beers while enjoying views of Auke Bay is a true taste of Juneau’s local culture. Reviewers like Neal_M and Rhonda_W highlight the quality of guides like Fletch, whose knowledge and personable style significantly enhance the trip.

Personalization & Small Group Size

With a cap of 8 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing the guide to tailor commentary and ensure everyone’s needs are met. The small group size fosters camaraderie and makes for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Ease & Accessibility

The tour offers pickup from a central location, making logistics simple. Rain gear is provided if the weather turns, which is essential in the often-moody Alaskan climate. The moderate physical demand means most travelers with average fitness levels will find it manageable.

Analyzing the Value

While the cost is around $198.45 per person, you’re paying for more than just a scenic bike ride. The price covers the bike, helmets, rain gear, professional guiding, glacier exploration, and beer tasting. Considering the included transportation and the unique combination of activities, many would find this offers good value—especially for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing multiple outings.

Plus, the reviews suggest that the experience is worth the expense. Neal_M’s comment about seeing off-the-beaten-path spots and Rhonda_W’s praise of the guide’s knowledge reflect quality and authenticity. The tour’s carefully curated stops provide a well-rounded snapshot of Juneau’s natural beauty and local culture.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits but also appreciate cultural touches like local brews. It suits those who want to avoid overly structured tours and prefer a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere. The scenic trails and glacier views appeal to nature lovers, while the brewery visit adds an element of local craftsmanship.

It’s perfect for adventurous singles, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, compact day in Juneau. Families with children over 10 years old who are comfortable on bikes can also enjoy this trip, given the manageable pace and scenic stops.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 10 years old and 4’10” tall, and they need to be accompanied by a guardian. The bike ride and outdoor activity are manageable for kids who meet these requirements.

What if it rains during the tour?
Rain gear is provided, so you’ll be prepared for typical Alaskan weather. The tour runs rain or shine, so don’t let a little drizzle deter you.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, biking, glacier exploration, and brewery visit, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Are alcoholic drinks served to minors?
No, alcoholic beverages are only served to those 21 and older. Minors will be offered non-alcoholic drinks.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
No, the ride is described as easy, suitable for most people with moderate fitness. The trails are flat and well-maintained.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Where does the tour start and end?
The experience begins at 255 Marine Way in Juneau and ends back at the same location after about four hours.

Final Thoughts

The Bikes, Glacier Views, and Microbrews tour in Juneau offers a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor that appeals to active and curious travelers alike. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make for a personalized experience, while the stops at the glacier and brewery add memorable highlights.

Whether you’re a nature lover eager to see the glacier up close, a foodie keen to sample local beers, or someone looking for an engaging way to explore Juneau’s wilderness, this tour ticks many boxes. The combination of gentle physical activity with culture makes it a versatile choice for a half-day outing.

If you seek a fun, authentic, and scenic way to spend part of your day in Juneau, this experience promises to deliver. Just be sure you’re comfortable on a bike and ready to enjoy the stunning landscapes Alaska has to offer.