In short
- Wear waterproof jackets, pants, and sturdy walking shoes.
- Pack warm layers, gloves, and a hat for chilly boat decks.
- Bring a reusable water bottle, binoculars, and a rain-covered daypack.
In this article
Your comfort relies on dressing correctly for quick weather changes. Combine a strong outer shell with warm inner layers to manage the cold winds off the ice and water. Always leave your snacks behind to protect local wildlife.
What should I wear to Mendenhall Glacier?
You should wear a waterproof outer shell over a warm fleece layer.
Temperatures near the 13-mile-long river of ice drop significantly. Wear a waterproof rain jacket to handle the temperate rainforest conditions. Pair this with a fleece or warm mid-layer. Add gloves and a warm hat to block the cold air while standing on the boat deck.
What shoes do I need for the glacier trails?
Wear sturdy, water-resistant walking shoes or hiking boots.
The 2-mile round-trip Nugget Falls trail is mostly flat. However, mist from the 377-foot waterfall makes the ground wet. Water-resistant shoes keep your feet dry while exploring the outdoor grounds.
What gear should I pack in my daypack?
Pack binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and motion sickness medication.
- Binoculars: Helpful for spotting whales, mountain goats, and bears.
- Camera gear: Bring a zoom lens and a rain cover for wet conditions.
- Motion sickness medicine: Take this if you are prone to seasickness on the 3 to 4-hour boat tours.
- Waterproof bag: Use a daypack with a waterproof cover to protect your items.
Can I bring snacks or drinks to the glacier?
You can only bring plain water onto the trails at Mendenhall Glacier.
Bring a reusable water bottle for your hike. No food or flavored beverages are allowed on the trails or outside the parking lot. This strict rule prevents black bears from being attracted to visitors.
Do I need insect repellent in Alaska?
Yes, insect repellent is necessary for woodland trails during mid-summer.
While temperatures remain cool, insects are active in the dense Tongass National Forest. Apply bug spray before walking the Steep Creek Trail or Nugget Falls Trail, especially from June through August.
How cold does it get on a whale-watching tour?
Winds on the water make the boat decks feel much colder than downtown Juneau.
Boats depart from Auke Bay Harbor and spend up to 3 hours searching for humpback whales. Even if the cabin is heated, you will want to step outside for photos. Keep your waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves easily accessible in your daypack.
Questions travellers ask
Can I bring a camera to Mendenhall Glacier?
Yes. Bring a camera with a zoom lens and a rain cover. This protects your gear from the mist near Nugget Falls and potential rain on the boat.
Will I get wet on the Nugget Falls trail?
Yes. The waterfall drops 377 feet into Mendenhall Lake, creating a strong mist. Waterproof gear is highly recommended if you walk to the base.
Are bears a problem at Mendenhall Glacier?
Black bears frequent the area, especially near Steep Creek from July to September. You must stay at least 50 yards away and carry no food or flavored drinks to prevent dangerous encounters.
