FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you plan your Mendenhall Glacier visit and Auke Bay whale-watching trip.
How far is Mendenhall Glacier from the Juneau cruise port?
The glacier is 12 miles from downtown Juneau and the cruise port. The drive takes 15 to 20 minutes by car or taxi.
Can you walk to Mendenhall Glacier from downtown Juneau?
No. It is a 12-mile walk along busy roads. You need a vehicle, shuttle, or bus to reach the recreation area.
Do you need a ticket to visit Mendenhall Glacier?
You need a $5 USFS recreation pass from May through September to access the Visitor Center and premium trails. The Nugget Falls trail is free.
How long is the hike to Nugget Falls?
It is a 2-mile round-trip walk from the visitor center. The path is flat and takes about one hour to complete.
Can you see whales in Juneau without a tour?
It is difficult. While whales occasionally swim near shore, booking a 3-hour boat tour from Auke Bay provides a high success rate.
When is the best time for whale watching in Juneau?
Whale-watching season peaks from May through September. Humpback whales migrate here during these months to feed.
How much is the shuttle bus to Mendenhall Glacier?
Private express shuttles cost $70 to $85 round-trip. Public transit is $2 each way, but the stop is 1.25 miles from the visitor center.
What kind of whales do you see in Juneau?
Tours primarily focus on spotting humpback whales. These whales gather in the Inside Passage waters all summer.
Can you touch the Mendenhall Glacier?
No, you cannot touch it from the main trails. You must book an excursion like the
to safely cross the lake to the ice.
Are there bears at Mendenhall Glacier?
Yes. Black bears are common, especially from July to September along the Steep Creek trail where salmon spawn.
Is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center open year-round?
The outdoor grounds and trails are open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. Check USFS sites for specific visitor center building hours in winter.
What is bubble-net feeding?
It is a unique hunting behavior. A group of humpback whales blow bubbles in a circle to trap fish, then lunge upward together to eat.
Can you do Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching in one day?
Yes. Most Tickets offer combo tours lasting 4.5 to 5 hours, easily fitting within a standard cruise port schedule.
Does the Juneau public bus go to Mendenhall Glacier?
The Capital Transit bus runs to the Mendenhall Valley, but it drops you 1.25 miles from the visitor center. You must walk the remaining distance.