The Mendenhall Glacier, located in Juneau Alaska, is absolutely unique: it is the only glacier situated inside the city limits of an American municipality. It is also the most popular Juneau rourist attraction for visitors to Alaska's capital, especially those arriving on Alaska cruises.
Motor coaches depart from cruise port in downtown Juneau for Mendenhall all day long on the half hour. If you arrive in Juneau on and Alaskan cruise ship, look for the buses labeled "Mendenhall Glacier Express. These vehicles are generally retired school buses, and they have been painted blue, making them easy to spot. The entire cost of the bus ride is only around ten dollars round trip, making the one of the most economical shore excursion options along the entire Alaska cruise route.
The Mendenhall Glacier Express buses will drop you off right at the visitor center for the glacier. Upon arriving at Mendenhall, always double check with your driver as to the time of your return bus, since you would hate to miss your cruise ship's departure or get stranded at the glacier.
The Mendenhall visitor center is a great launching point for day hikes. From the visitor center, it is only a short walk to the lake at the base of the glacier, which is one of the best places to take pictures in all of Juneau.
After arriving at the lake, you have several great options for hikes. If you are in decent shape and you have sufficient time, you can take the East Glacier trail. This path continues for about 3.5 miles, and it brings you through dense rain forest and alongside roaring waterfalls. Best of all, the trail has some absolutely picture-perfect views of the glacier from on high.
If you only have a limited amount of time to spend at the glacier, consider taking the East Glacier trail hike as it is often considered the best short hike in all of Juneau.
In addition, stay on the lookout for grizzlies hunting for salmon in the small river below the lake, especially in late summer. Viewing grizzlies at this river can really be an unforgettable and amazing experience.
At the end of your stay at the Mendenhall Glacier, catch one of the many return buses back to the cruise ship docks, taking in the views of quaint and historic downtown Juneau along the way. It's a great way to wrap up a fantastic, unforgettable day in the Alaskan Inside Passage.
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