Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska Tours in Juneau

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Juneau, Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. And what better way to experience it than by embarking on the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska? This immersive tour promises a thrilling exploration of the glacier’s icy wonders, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

About Mendenhall Glacier

Before getting into the details of the Mendenhall Glacier tour, let’s take a moment to appreciate this natural wonder. With its shimmering blue ice, rugged crevasses, and dramatic surroundings, this glacier is a true marvel of the Alaskan wilderness. Located just a short distance from downtown Juneau, the glacier is easily accessible and is a must-see during your visit to Juneau.

Liquid Alaska Tours

Liquid Alaska is a renowned tour company known for its commitment to providing exceptional outdoor experiences that showcase the beauty and diversity of the region. Their Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour is a testament to their passion for adventure and their dedication to ensuring that every participant has an unforgettable journey.

Why You Should Choose Liquid Alaska Tours

Liquid Alaska Tours is your gateway to the Mendenhall Glacier. Situated in the heart of Juneau, Alaska, this renowned tour provider offers an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the stunning beauty and natural splendor of one of Alaska’s most iconic landmarks. With Liquid Alaska Tours, your journey to the Mendenhall Glacier becomes an adventure of a lifetime, filled with awe-inspiring moments, educational insights, and memories to last a lifetime.

• Local Expertise: Liquid Alaska Tours is a locally owned and operated tour company, staffed by knowledgeable guides who have an intimate understanding of the region’s history, geology, and ecology.
• Small Group Experience: The tours are often conducted in small groups, allowing for a more personalized and immersive experience. The canoes hold either 10 or 14 guests.
• Safety First: All of Liquid Alaska’s tour guides are Wilderness First Responders. 
• Eco-Friendly: Liquid Alaska Tours is committed to preserving the pristine environment they operate in, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the wonders of Alaska.
• Great Reviews: Liquid Alaska Tours has over 1,200 5-star reviews on Tripadvisor. This is a testament to the top-notch tours that leave guests in awe. Liquid Alaska doesn’t just meet expectations, it exceeds them.

Getting to Mendenhall Lake

Getting to Mendenhall Lake is a journey through the scenic wonders of Juneau, Alaska. Most visitors access this pristine destination by road, with Mendenhall Glacier Road leading the way. You’ll view lush forests, towering peaks, and glimpses of the pristine waters of the lake through the trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife! For your Liquid Alaska glacier tours, round-trip transportation from the cruise port is included in the cost. This is convenient for cruisers or anyone staying in Downtown Juneau making it the perfect Juneau excursion. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes, one-way. If you have your own vehicle, you can drive yourself to the West Glacier Trailhead parking lot. Just be sure to let Liquid Alaska know ahead of time! 

About the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour

When you book a tour with Liquid Alaska Tours to see the Mendenhall Glacier, you can expect a day filled with excitement. Your expert guides will lead you on a canoe journey across Mendenhall Lake where you will paddle together with a small group past icebergs, giant waterfalls, and wildlife. After landing the canoe, your guides will safely lead you on a hike around the rocky surfaces located directly in front of the glacier. Here you will discover the magnificent ice features up close. Views of specific glacial features like Ice Caves and Moulins cannot be guaranteed due to the nature of the constantly moving ice. You’ll canoe back to your starting point and end your adventure with a nice, warm beverage. Even though it is the most visited glacier in Alaska, most people only see it from afar. This tour will give you ample time for pictures and exploration while trekking with your guides directly in front of the glacier ice. This tour is for ages 12 and up. For other specifics, refer to the Liquid Alaska Tours site.

How Long Does the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour Last?

This tour typically lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, giving you a full day of exploration and adventure. This includes the travel from the cruise port to the lake, safety instructions and gear distribution, canoeing, hiking, and getting back to the cruise port. You will select your tour start time when booking.

How Much Does the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour Cost?

The current cost of the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour is $329 per person plus tax. This cost is subject to change, so be sure to check the current pricing on Liquid Alaska’s website.

When are Mendenhall Glacier Tours Available?

Liquid Alaska Tours operate their glacier tours seasonally from May through September. There are not any tours offered from October through April.

Typical Mendenhall Glacier Tour Itinerary

Let’s break down the typical itinerary and timeline for Liquid Alaska Tour’s Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour. Times are subject to change but this will give you an estimated timeline of what your day will look like.

• Transportation to the Glacier Launch Site (30 minutes)
• Equipment and Safety Briefing (30 minutes)
• Mendenhall Lake Canoe Paddle (1 hour)
• Hike and Exploration (1 hour)
• Mendenhall Lake Canoe Paddle (1 hour)
• Gear Offload and Hot Beverage (30 minutes)
• Transportation back to Cruise Ship Terminal (30 minutes)

Your adventure will begin at the cruise ship terminal in downtown Juneau. A Liquid Alaska guide will greet you and take you on a narrated van ride into the Tongass National Forest, the largest National Forest in the United States, which is where the Mendenhall Glacier is found. You will arrive at the west side of Mendenhall Lake and you’ll be given all of your equipment and safety gear. Once you suit up, your guides teach you how to paddle safely and efficiently across Mendenhall Lake.

Along with your guides, you will access the area directly in front of the glacier via a canoe ride across Mendenhall Lake. Everyone will have to paddle by following the guides’ calls, so be prepared to do some work. The canoe trip takes about an hour to get over near the glacier. You will have a few breaks along the way to rest your arms.

After you arrive on the shore next to the glacier, you’ll go on an easy hike along the rocks to learn more about your surroundings and the Mendenhall Glacier. You’ll have great views of the gorgeous blue glacier, and maybe even some icebergs, for about an hour before canoeing back to the launch site.

You’ll remove all of your gear and enjoy a hot beverage. There is a public restroom nearby if you need it as well. Once everything is packed up, a Liquid Alaska guide will take you back to the cruise ship terminal to end your adventure.

An Adventure to Remember

The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska is not just a tour—it’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. It’s a chance to witness the raw power of nature up close, to learn about the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems, and to create memories that will forever be etched in your heart.

So, if you’re seeking an adventure that combines exploration, education, and pure wonder, look no further than the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and humbled by the grandeur of the Mendenhall Glacier and the expertise of your guides as you embark on this remarkable journey into the heart of Alaska’s icy paradise.

What’s Included with the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska

• Transportation to and from Downtown Juneau
• Expert Wilderness Guides
• Bottled Water, Snacks, and Hot Beverage
• Rain Jacket & Pants / Waterproof Boots / Gloves
• Life Vest / Helmet / Trekking Pole
• Dry Bag

What to Wear for Your Mendenhall Glacier Tour

Liquid Alaska will provide everything you need to be safe and dry. Be sure to dress for the weather. Wear comfortable, non-cotton layers that you can easily layer your provided rain gear over. Personally, I wore leggings and a long sleeve dri-fit shirt. If the temperatures are cooler, you’ll want gloves and warm socks. Once you get near the glacier, you will notice a drop in temperature. I brought a zip-up fleece in my dry bag and put it on when we got out of the canoe to explore. Sunglasses and a waterproof phone pouch are also great to have with you.

Tips for Your Liquid Alaska Glacier Tours

Definitely book your tour in advance. Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure tours are popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. The United States Forest Service also limits the number of permits allowed in this area each year. Booking early will ensure you secure your spot!

Bottled water is provided by the tour, so make sure to stay hydrated. You’ll also have some snacks, like granola bars and fruit snacks, to fuel you on your adventure.

Listen to your trained guides during your tour. This is the key to a sage and enjoyable experience for everyone. Follow all instructions and safety guidelines.

Junea is located in the world’s largest temperate rainforest and rain is very common. Rain gear is provided along with Xtratuf boots but make sure to dress in case of rain. Most times, tours will not be canceled if it’s raining. If Liquid Alaska Tours determines that the weather conditions are unsafe, they will cancel the tour and refund your money. High winds may also be the cause of tour cancellations.

Other Ways to See Mendenhall Glacier

Liquid Alaska offers a canoe-only tour that takes a little less time at a slightly lower cost. Take a look at the Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour if time or budget are a concern. It is similar to the Ice Adventure tour, but without getting out of the canoe and exploring near the glacier.

The Mendenhall Visitor Center provides visitors with insights into the natural history, geology, and ecology of the region. There is a $5 fee per person to purchase a pass You can step onto the visitor center’s viewing platforms for views of the Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding areas. This location is near Nugget Falls, but still quite a ways away from the glacier itself. There is a short and easy hike to get to Nugget Falls from the Visitor Center. If you aren’t doing a tour to get up close to the glacier, this is another option.

If you want an aerial view of Mendenhall Glacier, you can book a helicopter tour. This unique opportunity showcases the glacier’s immense size and stunning ice formations.

Ready to book your Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour with Liquid Alaska? Click here to check availability!

Exploring the Mendenhall Glacier with Liquid Alaska Tours is an adventure of a lifetime, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Alaska and witness the grandeur of a natural wonder. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a memorable experience, Liquid Alaska Tours provides the means to connect with the Mendenhall Glacier in a way that few can imagine. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this frozen adventure and create lasting memories in one of the world’s most pristine and captivating destinations.