In short
- Peak season spans May through September.
- Late July to September is best for bears and salmon.
- Humpback whales feed in Auke Bay all summer.
In this article
Juneau's summer tourist season aligns with the highest wildlife activity. Choosing the right month ensures you get the most out of your glacier visit and boat tour.
When is the primary visitor season?
The peak season for Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching is May through September.
During these months, visitor facilities operate at full capacity. The USFS requires a $5 day pass per person to access the Visitor Center and premium trails. Children ages 15 and under enter free.
| Season | Dates | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Summer | May - September | High whale sighting rates, $5 USFS pass required |
| Late Summer | July - September | Salmon spawning, black bear sightings |
| Off-Season | October - April | Trails open, free entry, limited tours |
When is the best time for whale watching in Juneau?
Whale-watching season peaks from May through September.
Hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the nutrient-rich Inside Passage waters to feed all summer. Tours departing from Auke Bay Harbor have high success rates for sightings. Keep an eye out for bubble-net feeding, where humpbacks work together to trap fish.
When can I see bears and salmon at the glacier?
Late July through September is the best time for bear and salmon viewing.
Spawning sockeye and coho salmon run along Steep Creek during this window. You can watch them from an elevated boardwalk. Black bears often visit the stream to fish. Remember to stay at least 50 yards away from bears and never feed the wildlife.
What is the weather like during the summer season?
Juneau is a temperate rainforest, so expect wet and chilly conditions year-round.
Even in peak summer, temperatures near the 13-mile-long river of ice and out on the water stay cool. You should pack a waterproof rain jacket and wear sturdy, water-resistant walking shoes. Bring fleece or warm layers to stay comfortable on the boat deck.
How long does a combo tour take?
Guided combo tours typically take 4.5 to 5 hours total.
This includes transportation from the cruise ship terminal or downtown Juneau. You will spend 2.5 to 3 hours on the water for the whale watch. The remaining time covers transit and a stop at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area.
Can I visit Mendenhall Glacier in the winter?
Yes, the outdoor grounds and trails are open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to midnight.
While summer is the peak season for whale-watching tours, the glacier remains accessible. The 2-mile round-trip Nugget Falls Trail is open and free to hike. However, whale-watching boats and regular shuttle buses do not operate heavily outside the May to September window.
Questions travellers ask
When is the best time for whale watching in Juneau?
The peak season is from May through September. During this time, humpback whales are actively feeding in the waters near Auke Bay.
When is the best time to see bears at Mendenhall Glacier?
Black bears are most active near the glacier from late July to September. They gather along Steep Creek to feed on spawning salmon.
Is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center open year-round?
The outdoor trails and grounds are open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. The USFS charges a $5 pass for the Visitor Center from May through September.
