Mendenhall Glacier Guided Hike

Hike Through the Rainforest to Mendenhall Glacier Views

An exhilarating wilderness adventure awaits in Juneau, Alaska, with a guided hike through the spectacular Tongass National Forest toward panoramic views of Mendenhall Glacier. Covering approximately six to seven miles, the challenging journey combines dense rainforest, rugged terrain, and remarkable mountain scenery for an immersive experience in Southeast Alaska.

The hike begins with a trek through the world’s largest temperate rainforest, surrounded by towering Sitka spruce and hemlock trees. Along the route, hikers pass beaver ponds and navigate exposed bedrock before gradually leaving the forest behind. The trail includes steep, rocky, uneven, and slippery sections, making balance and sure-footedness essential.

At the final ridge, participants are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier, including its jagged ice face, deep blue crevasses, and cascading icefall. The viewpoint also provides impressive sights of the surrounding mountains and Nugget Falls, with time available to enjoy snacks and take photographs before beginning the return journey.

The experience includes a professional guide, transportation, permits, rain gear, trekking poles, snacks, and a souvenir water bottle. Guests should be prepared for changing weather and bring suitable hiking footwear and non-cotton layers. This demanding adventure requires the ability to hike for several hours over challenging terrain, and the tour reaches a panoramic viewpoint rather than the glacier itself.