A Perfect Day In Juneau - What To See And Do
Mendenhall, one of the most beautiful and accessible glaciers in North America, is just 13 miles from downtown Juneau.
Alaska's state capital is chock full of adventure. Accessible only by air or sea, Alaska's capital city entices travelers with its beauty, tranquility and outdoor activities. The Mendenhall Glacier, the jewel of the Juneau Icefield, can be discovered on scenic drives, hikes, boat rides, rafting trips, kayaking excursions and helicopter tours. As one of the state's largest cruise and airport hubs, Juneau has established itself as a tourist destination. Tucked beneath towering mountains, this city offers something for everyone. Whether you want to stroll down the historic streets of downtown, toss out a line in a picturesque inlet, or climb aboard a floatplane to view glaciers from the sky – Juneau has it all.
TRANSPORTATION IN JUNEAU
Juneau is a compact city and most places can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot. Most of the shops and restaurants are stretched out along South Franklin Street. Taxis pick up from the cruise terminals, and rideshare services operate here, too. The local bus company, Capital Transit, is a good option for getting around the downtown area if your mobility is limited. The Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway is right opposite the South Cruise Ship Berth.
Spend an Afternoon on South Franklin Street (Downtown Juneau)
Walking around Juneau's downtown is like stepping back into a time machine to the 1890s. Visitors can head towards South Franklin Street to reach the heart of the historic area. The wide sidewalks and quaint buildings have played host to a variety of shops and restaurants throughout the ages. The multitude of stores carries souvenirs, local Alaskan crafts, fine arts, books on Alaskan history and nature, and handmade jewelry.
The downtown area is easily accessible by foot to the main cruise ship port. During your shopping experience, be sure to pop over to Marine Park with your binoculars to take a peek at Mount Juneau. This is a popular spot to see mountain goats, especially in the late summer when their white coats stand out against the green landscape.
Nestled amidst Alaska’s stunning natural beauty lies downtown Juneau, a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends history with modern charm.
If it is sunny, be sure to catch a ride to the top of Mount Roberts via the Goldbelt Tram. The Goldbelt Tram is located just south of downtown Juneau, just steps off the cruise ship dock. The tram makes a six-minute ascent up Mount Roberts from the lower terminal to a height of about 1,800 feet. A restaurant, theater, and retail shop are located at the top of the tramway, as well as connections to trails leading both up and down the mountain. While this trip isn't worth it on a cloudy day, the views are unparalleled on a clear day. Be sure to pack extra layers. It is often much windier or colder at the top. You can also hike to the top if you're feeling more adventurous. The trail from downtown is 6 miles round trip and takes about 2-3 hours (depending on stops). You can also hike to the top and ride down (or vice versa). Treat yourself to a beer at the tram's bar, and the ride down is free!
The tram has two 60-passenger cabins, capable of a maximum uphill capacity of 1050 people per hour. Maximum speed is 2,000 ft/min (10 m/s; 23 mph). This type of tram is known as a double-reversible or “jig-back”. Both cabins are coupled to a common haul rope and they move in unison, one up and one down.
The top terminal of the tram is located on a tower and has views of the City of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island and the community of Douglas to the west, the Chilkat Mountain Range to the north, and Kupreanof Island to the South.
Mendenhall Lake
A short drive from the downtown area, the mighty Mendenhall Glacier is located in the dense Tongass National Forest. Stop by the informative visitor center, then follow a hiking trail around the stony shores of Mendenhall Lake.
Juneau is a water destination. Surrounded by islands with countless inlets and glacier lakes, this is a water lover's dream destination. One of the most spectacular trips is a voyage along Mendenhall Lake to Mendenhall Glacier.
Visitors can opt for a guided kayak tour to Mendenhall Lake, where you can kayak between floating icebergs and experience the serenity of Tongass National Forest for the water. The tours allow paddlers to view the glacier from a safe distance while learning more about the history and nature of the region from the experienced guide. Keep an eye out for otters, beavers, and bears, as they are frequent visitors along the banks of Mendenhall Lake.
Permits are required to paddle close to the glacier, so opting for a guide makes this journey easier and safer. Guides also supply all the gear needed. While some fitness level is needed to participate in the 2-hour adventure, visitors do not need to be kayak experts. Guides provide kayaking tips and lessons, and the lake remains calm on sunny days.
If kayaking sounds too extreme, visitors can also enjoy Mendenhall Glacier on a charter cruise. Helicopter tours are also often if you want to see the glacier from the sky. Both of these experiences are easier physically, but they lack the serenity found only with a paddle.
Local Tip: If you're under a time restraint, you can also view the glacier from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. If you have longer to explore, consider a hike to Nugget Falls from the visitor center. This trail will bring you close to the glacier as well as to the viewing point of Nugget Falls, a 377-foot waterfall plummeting into the lake. Simply look for signs from the visitor center pointing to the falls. The 2-mile hike is level and on gravel, making it the perfect option for families.
Downtown Juneau sits snugly between Mt. Juneau, Mt. Roberts and Gastineau Channel and is a maze of narrow streets running past a mix of new structures, old storefronts and quaint houses.
Juneau's waters are a hot spot for humpback whales, and daily cruises afford the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures-a truly unforgettable experience.
GO DOG SLEDDING ON A GLACIER
Soar over the Juneau Icefield in a helicopter, admiring the jagged mountains, sparkling lakes, and ice below. Land on Norris Glacier, where there’s a remote dog sled camp in summer. Many of the dogs here are former racers and veterans of the challenging Alaskan Iditarod race. You’ll be taught basic commands and experience the thrill of racing across the snow, pulled along by your own team of eager dogs while taking in the dramatic scenery of this icy wilderness.