How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier from Cruise Port: A Step-by-Step Guide
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With a little planning, you can enjoy the stunning views of Mendenhall Glacier on your next trip to Alaska. There are a number of tour companies that offer day trips to Mendenhall Glacier. Tours typically include transportation, a guided hike, and a boat tour of the glacier. Tour prices vary depending on the company and the length of the tour. The best way to get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier depends on your budget and preferences. If you are looking for a more convenient option, a taxi or tour is a good choice.
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Juneau’s Capital Transit bus system offers regular service from the cruise port to the Mendenhall Loop Road, the main access road to the glacier. Shuttle services often offer flexibility in terms of ticket options. Depending on your preferences, you may choose a one-way or round-trip ticket. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can opt for a shuttle that drops you off at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and allows you to explore at your own pace. If you prefer a guided experience, you may find shuttle services that include a guided tour along with transportation.
How to get to Mendenhall Glacier from a cruise ship
We cruised with four in 2022, and the taxi cost us USD 33 each way, plus a fee of USD 12 per person to access the park. However, the glacier is also beautiful during the winter months, when it is covered in snow. If you have the opportunity to explore the ice caves within Mendenhall Glacier, exercise extreme caution. Caves can be unstable, and accessing them may require specialized knowledge and equipment.
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Mendenhall Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring beauty and power of the Alaskan wilderness. Suppose you’re planning a trip to Juneau and have your sights set on visiting the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Once your cruise ship docks at the Juneau port, you’ll need to decide on the best way to reach the glacier, considering convenience, cost, and time constraints. In this guide, we’ll explore four different transportation options, each with advantages and considerations, to help you make the most of your visit. Getting to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center from the cruise terminal is a straightforward and enjoyable journey.
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Posted: Fri, 07 Jul 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
The cost of seeing Mendenhall Glacier varies depending on the activity you choose. Hiking to the glacier is free, but you will need to pay for parking. Boat tours and flightseeing tours typically cost between $50 and $100 per person.
So whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day excursion, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, you can try the East Glacier Trail. The East Glacier Trail is about 8 miles long and takes about 5 hours to complete.
However, it’s important to keep cost considerations in mind and communicate clearly with the driver to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. One of the most convenient and hassle-free ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise port is by taking a shuttle service. Many cruise lines and local tour operators offer shuttle services specifically designed to transport visitors to and from the glacier.
If you want to walk out to Nugget Falls, you’ll want to give yourself 1.5 to 2 hours. Expect this experience to take about 3 hours and cost around $650-$700 per person. Make your decision about whether or not to do it and then let fate (or weather) make the final call! I first visited Mendenhall Glacier in 1994 and have been many times since, both as a former Alaskan and a frequent visitor.
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The bus will take you to Mendenhall for about 8 dollars round trip. Tours begin with a guided walk through the landscaped lower gardens. Take in the sights and smells of immaculately manicured flowers and gardens. The Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is equal parts a gorgeous botanical center and an adventure into the rainforest of the Tongass National Forest. The United States Forest Service operates the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The center is open year-round but requires a pass to view the exhibits and access the Pavilion and the restrooms from May 1 until September 30.
Alternatively, find a quiet spot to sit and take in the serenity of the glacier, allowing yourself to fully relax and rejuvenate. The convenience of the Glacier Shuttle allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. The Glacier Shuttle operates during the summer months when cruise ships are in port, ensuring you can easily access the glacier throughout the day. Buses run on a regular schedule, providing multiple departure and pick-up times from the cruise port area. The Capital Transit bus system operates the Glacier Shuttle, a dedicated bus route that takes visitors directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
If you’re on a tight budget, the bus is the most economical option. If you want the freedom to explore, renting a car is the best option. The best time to visit Mendenhall Glacier is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warmest and the glacier is most accessible. However, the glacier is also very popular during the summer months, so you may have to share the experience with other tourists. The easiest way to get to Mendenhall Glacier from the airport is to take a taxi or bus.
Additionally, it’s recommended to book a tour with a reputable company that’s experienced guides who’re knowledgeable about glacier safety. To get to Mendenhall Glacier from the cruise terminal, you’ll need to make your way to the Juneau International Airport. These tours usually include a scenic flight over the stunning Alaskan landscape before landing on the glacier itself.
Mendenhall Glacier is not just a sight to behold, but also a habitat for wildlife. Keep an eye out for the chance to spot black bears, eagles, beavers, and other local fauna in their natural environment. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with various trails and viewpoints providing a chance to observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance. These added experiences provide a well-rounded adventure, allowing you to make the most of your time at Mendenhall Glacier and the beautiful surrounding landscapes.
Yield to other hikers going uphill, stay on designated trails to protect the fragile vegetation, and pack out any trash or waste you bring in. Be considerate of fellow hikers and maintain a respectful distance from others on the trail. Do not approach or feed any animals you encounter, including black bears and eagles. If you spot a bear, make noise to alert them to your presence and slowly back away. Always carry bear spray and be knowledgeable about its proper use.
There are several taxi companies and in my experience you usually have to wait a long time (45 minutes to an hour) after calling for a ride. Taxis also drop off further away than buses from the visitor center and there is a steep surcharge per person to get dropped off at the glacier. It costs quite a bit more than the shuttle round trip, although with a bigger group it might work out financially, but it’s still a hassle.
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