Exploring Mendenhall Glacier: A Stunning Photo Tour in Juneau, Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier lies just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Alaska, which explains its popularity. Visitors can walk to Mendenhall Lake at the foot of the glacier via the wheelchair-accessible Photo Point Trail. Several other trails offer opportunities to view the glacier and the wildlife of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest.

During peak season, which runs from May through September, admission to the glacier viewing area and all trails, except the Photo Point Trail, is free. However, the Visitor Center charges a $5 admission fee for visitors aged 16 and older. This fee grants access to the Visitor Center, Photo Point Trail, and all on-site restrooms. Interestingly, if you possess a Federal Recreation Lands Senior pass, you will not need to pay this fee.

The Visitor Center at Mendenhall Glacier features enormous windows that offer a panoramic view of the glacier. Visitors can watch an audio-visual presentation, explore exhibits, and gain insight into the Juneau Icefield. The Visitor Center operates year-round; however, winter hours are limited. Moreover, US Forest Service rangers and guest speakers present special programs throughout the year.

While many visitors reach Mendenhall Glacier via tour groups or shore excursions, you can also get there independently. For instance, visitors can take a taxi from Juneau, drive with a rental car, or take the city bus to Glacier Spur Road and walk the remaining 1.5 miles. Additionally, two private tour companies offer shuttle bus service between Juneau’s cruise dock and the glacier: M&M Tours of Juneau and Juneau Tours.

Photo Point Trail

The wheelchair-accessible Photo Point Trail stretches 0.3 miles and is paved, making it easy to navigate. This delightful trail offers a marvelous view of Mendenhall Lake, Mendenhall Glacier, and Nugget Falls. If you visit between May and September, you will need to pay the $5 admission fee to walk along the Photo Point Trail.

Nugget Falls, found at the end of Nugget Creek, flows into Mendenhall Lake. The trail leading to Nugget Falls branches off from the Photo Point Trail and leads you to the foot of the waterfall. This two-mile trail is quite flat and mostly unpaved. Upon reaching the end of the trail, you can walk right up to the waterfall, which makes for an unforgettable experience. Expect to spend approximately one hour walking this picturesque trail.

Other trails available at Mendenhall Glacier include the one-mile Trail of Time, the 1/4 mile Steep Creek Loop, and the 3.5-mile East Glacier Loop. These trails are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, even when the Visitor Center is closed. If you plan to hike during your visit, dress appropriately and wear boots or shoes designed for wet and slippery surfaces. It is also wise to bring food and water for longer hikes.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from May through October. Although it is open from October through March, hours are considerably more limited, and local weather conditions may cause the Visitor Center to close earlier or open later than posted times. The Center is usually closed during April; check the park’s website for the most current information.

Bergy Bits

One of the highlights of any glacier visit is watching the glacier “calve.” This unique phenomenon occurs when large chunks of ice break off from the glacier and tumble into the water. The smaller floating ice fragments are referred to as “bergy bits.” Predicting when a glacier will calve is challenging; however, if you are fortunate enough to witness this event, it will become a cherished memory. (Tip: Your chances of seeing calving improve on warm, sunny days.)

What Is a Glacier, Anyway?

A glacier forms when the snowpack does not completely melt away but is compressed by accumulating snow. Eventually, this compressed snow transforms into ice, which flows downhill due to gravity. A glacier is considered to be retreating when it no longer moves forward because it is melting more rapidly than new snow and ice can build up.

As glaciers move, they scrape away soil and rock, depositing these materials at their terminus, which, in the case of Mendenhall Glacier, is Mendenhall Lake. Interestingly, some lakes and rivers in Alaska may appear cloudy due to the fine, powdery soil produced by glaciers. This sediment flows into lakes and rivers alongside the water melted from the glacier.

Don’t Tempt the Bears!

Juneau is considered “bear country.” Therefore, never leave food or discarded wrappers on trails or in parking lots. Locals recommend carrying “bear mace” as a deterrent against bears. Additionally, wearing “bear bells,” producing noise to signal your approach to bears, can be beneficial when hiking. If you happen to see a bear, back away slowly while yelling and making noise. Remember, no photograph is worth the risk, and never turn to run, as the bear may perceive you as prey.

Address

8510 Mendenhall Loop Road
Juneau, AK 99801