Canoes, Ice, and Thunder: A Mendenhall Glacier Adventure
Paddle a berg-dotted lake, walk the raw moraine, and stand face-to-face with a living glacier in the Tongass Rainforest.
The lake stares back like polished slate, studded with drifting ice. Your paddle dips, bites, and the cold Juneau air snaps awake around you. Ahead, a white wall of ancient time rises—the Mendenhall Glacier—its blue seams breathing in the light, its creaks and low groans reminding you this place is alive. Nugget Falls thunders to your right, flinging spray that rides the wind, daring your canoe to press closer. Even from the first strokes, the landscape sets the rhythm: the Tongass National Forest exhales cedar and rain; bald eagles write cursive across the sky. The lake answers in ripples, beckoning you forward.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for cold spray
Even on sunny days, wind over the lake can be sharp and Nugget Falls throws mist; wear a waterproof shell and quick-dry layers.
Mind the moraine
Expect uneven, slick rock and glacial silt—wear sturdy, lugged footwear and use hands for balance on scrambles.
Glacier decides the route
Ice caves and arches are never guaranteed; guides adjust access based on daily conditions for safety.
Pack snacks you can eat on the move
Wind and cold burn calories; bring dense snacks you can eat quickly during short breaks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Steep Creek Boardwalk for salmon runs and bear viewing in late summer
- •Alternate vantage of Nugget Falls from the boulders east of the main trail for long-exposure shots
Wildlife
Bald eagles, Black bears
Conservation Note
Mendenhall sits within the Tongass National Forest. Stay on durable surfaces, keep distance from wildlife, and pack out all trash to protect sensitive shoreline and riparian habitats.
The Tlingit call the glacier Sitaantaagu and Aak’wtaaksit, reflecting its deep cultural presence. The modern name honors physicist Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, assigned in 1892.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Cold wind over the lake, Unpredictable rain
April–May can bring clear views and solitude, but paddlers should expect chilly temps and occasional gusts.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Stable paddling conditions
Challenges: More visitors, Biting insects on calm days
June–August is the prime window with milder temps and long days—ideal for paddle-and-hike combos.
fall
Best for: Moody skies for photography, Wildlife activity near streams
Challenges: Increased rain, Shorter daylight
September–early October offers dramatic light and active salmon streams; come prepared for wet conditions.
winter
Best for: Snowy landscapes from shore, Northern ambiance
Challenges: Tours often pause, Icy access and storms
When the lake freezes and storms roll in, guided paddling typically shuts down; enjoy visitor center views instead.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof shell (hooded)Essential
Blocks wind and spray from the lake and Nugget Falls, keeping your core warm.
Insulating midlayer (fleece or synthetic)Essential
Retains heat even when damp—key for shoulder-season chills.
Lugged hiking bootsEssential
Provide traction on slick, uneven moraine rock and glacial silt.
Polarized sunglasses
Cuts glare on the lake and helps spot fish and birds against reflective water.
Common Questions
How strenuous is the paddling?
Expect moderate effort; group paddling helps, but wind can make the crossing more demanding. Plan for up to 3 miles round-trip on the lake.
Will we go inside ice caves?
Ice caves are not guaranteed and are only approached when conditions are safe; the glacier changes daily and cave access is rare.
What should I wear?
Dress in moisture-wicking layers with a waterproof shell, sturdy hiking boots, gloves, and a warm hat. Avoid cotton.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include bald eagles and arctic terns; black bears may be seen near salmon streams and mountain goats on distant slopes.
Do tours run in rain?
Yes. Southeast Alaska is a rainforest—light to steady rain is common. Proper waterproof layers make for a comfortable day.
Is there cell service at Mendenhall Lake?
Coverage is spotty to none once on the lake and near the glacier. Download maps and share plans before departure.
What to Pack
Waterproof shell and pants to block wind and spray; insulated midlayer to stay warm in shifting weather; sturdy, lugged boots for slick moraine rock; dry bag to protect camera, snacks, and an extra layer.
Did You Know
Since the mid-20th century, Mendenhall Glacier has retreated more than a mile, a visible indicator of Southeast Alaska’s warming climate.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures for calmer lake conditions; bring a brimmed hat to keep falling spray out of your eyes; stash a spare pair of socks in a dry bag; download offline maps before leaving downtown Juneau.
Local Flavor
Refuel at Tracy’s King Crab Shack for bisque and crab legs, or grab tacos at Deckhand Dave’s near the wharf. Sample local brews at the Alaskan Brewing tasting room and warm up with a latte at Heritage Coffee Roasting Co. Juneau’s compact waterfront is perfect for a post-adventure stroll.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Juneau International (JNU). Launch point: Mendenhall Lake near the Visitor Center, ~20 minutes by car from downtown. Cell coverage: patchy to none at the lake and glacier. Permits: Guided operators handle access; a Visitor Center fee may apply for indoor exhibits.
Sustainability Note
This adventure unfolds in the Tongass National Forest—pack out all waste, avoid trampling fragile shoreline vegetation, give wildlife ample space, and never approach or climb unstable ice features.
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