In short
- Mendenhall Glacier day passes cost $5 per person from May through September.
- Whale-watching boat tours typically range from $150 to $250.
- Express shuttle buses from downtown cost between $70 and $85 round-trip.
In this article
Planning your budget for Juneau involves three main costs. Factor in transport to the glacier, USFS recreation fees, and the price of a whale-watching boat tour. Prices vary based on how much you do on your own versus booking a fully guided excursion.
How much is a ticket to Mendenhall Glacier?
The USFS charges a $5 recreation fee from May through September.
This pass grants access to the Visitor Center, Pavilion, Photo Point, and Steep Creek Trail. Children ages 15 and under enter for free. Note that the USFS has proposed raising this fee to $15. Access to the Nugget Falls trail remains free year-round.
How much do whale-watching tours cost in Juneau?
Standard boat tours run from $150 to $250 per person.
Prices change based on the platform and season. Most tours last 3 to 4 hours and depart from Auke Bay Harbor. This price usually includes transport from downtown Juneau or the cruise terminal to the harbor.
Are combo tours a good value?
Guided combo tours cost from $150 to $250 and combine both attractions.
Booking a single tour covers your whale-watching boat, transport to the glacier, and the return trip. It is the most efficient option for cruise ship passengers with limited port time. Total time for a combo is 4.5 to 5 hours.
How much does the shuttle bus to the glacier cost?
Private express buses cost from $70 to $85 round-trip.
These buses run directly between the downtown cruise terminal and the Mendenhall Glacier. The ride takes 30 minutes each way. Tickets are available at the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. The cost often includes the $5 USFS day pass. Prices change by operator.
What is the cheapest way to reach Mendenhall Glacier?
The Capital Transit public bus costs $2 each way.
This is the least expensive option, but it requires effort. The bus takes 1 hour and drops you off 1.25 miles from the visitor center. You will need to walk the remaining distance to see the glacier.
How much does a taxi to the glacier cost?
A taxi ride costs between $35 and $45 each way.
Taxis offer flexibility from downtown Juneau or the airport. The drive takes 15 to 20 minutes. Keep in mind that taxis and rideshares can be sparse. It is best to pre-arrange your return trip.
Questions travellers ask
Do you need a ticket to visit Mendenhall Glacier?
Yes, a $5 USFS day pass is required from May through September for the Visitor Center and premium trails. Ages 15 and under are free.
Can you do Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching in one day?
Yes. Guided combo tours handle the transport between both sites, taking 4.5 to 5 hours total from downtown Juneau.
How much is the shuttle bus to Mendenhall Glacier?
The private express shuttle bus costs from $70 to $85 round-trip from the downtown cruise terminal.
