How to Get from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier (with Tips)

How to Get From Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier

Standing at 13,000 feet tall, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most popular tourist destinations. Located just a short drive from Juneau, the cruise ship port, it’s easy to add a visit to this natural wonder to your Alaskan cruise itinerary.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting from Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier, including transportation options, tour options, and things to do at the glacier. So whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day excursion, we’ve got you covered.

Transportation Options

There are several ways to get from Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier. The most popular option is by shuttle bus, which takes about 30 minutes. You can also take a taxi or Uber, which will cost more but will give you more flexibility in terms of timing. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a car and drive yourself.

Tour Options

There are many different tour options available for visiting Mendenhall Glacier. You can choose from a guided hike, a boat tour, or a helicopter tour. Guided hikes are a great way to learn about the glacier and its history, while boat tours offer stunning views of the glacier from the water. Helicopter tours are the most expensive option, but they also offer the most dramatic views.

Things to Do at the Glacier

Once you’re at Mendenhall Glacier, there are plenty of things to do. You can hike on the glacier itself, take a guided nature walk, or simply enjoy the views from the Visitor Center. There are also several restaurants and shops at the Visitor Center, so you can grab a bite to eat or pick up some souvenirs.

Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a more extended adventure, Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see for any visitor to Alaska. With its stunning scenery and endless activities, it’s the perfect place to experience the beauty of the Last Frontier.

“`html

Method Time Cost
Taxi 15 minutes $25
Bus 30 minutes $10
Helicopter 5 minutes $100

“`

Transportation Options

There are four main ways to get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier: by bus, by taxi, by car, or by tour.

By bus

The Juneau-Douglas City Transit System (JDS) operates a bus route that runs from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs $2.00. The bus departs from the cruise port every 30 minutes, starting at 7:00 AM and ending at 7:00 PM.

By taxi

Taxis are also available from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The taxi ride takes about 20 minutes and costs around $25.00. Taxis can be found at the cruise port taxi stand.

By car

You can also drive from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The drive takes about 20 minutes and the cost of gas is about $5.00. There is a parking lot at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you can leave your car.

By tour

There are a number of tour companies that offer tours to Mendenhall Glacier. Tours typically include a guided walk on the glacier, as well as transportation to and from the glacier. Tour prices vary, but typically start around $50.00 per person.

Costs

The cost of transportation to Mendenhall Glacier varies depending on the method of transportation you choose. The following is a table of the costs for each method of transportation:

| Method of Transportation | Cost |
|—|—|
| Bus | $2.00 |
| Taxi | $25.00 |
| Car | $5.00 |
| Tour | $50.00+ |

The best way to get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier depends on your budget and preferences. If you are on a budget, the bus is the most economical option. If you are looking for a more convenient option, a taxi or tour is a good choice. If you want to drive your own car, you can do so, but there is a parking fee at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

How to Get From Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska, and for good reason. The glacier is located just a short drive from Juneau, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. There are a few different ways to get from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier, and the best option for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and preferred mode of transportation.

Options

There are four main ways to get from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier: by bus, taxi, car, or tour.

By Bus

The Juneau Transit System (JTU) offers a bus service to Mendenhall Glacier. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes and costs $20 round-trip. The bus leaves from the cruise ship terminal and stops at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

By Taxi

Taxis are another option for getting to Mendenhall Glacier. The taxi ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around $50. Taxis can be found at the cruise ship terminal.

By Car

If you have a car, you can drive to Mendenhall Glacier. The drive takes about 30 minutes and the cost of gas is about $10. There is a parking lot at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

By Tour

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.

Time

The amount of time it takes to get from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. By bus, the trip takes about 45 minutes. By taxi, the trip takes about 30 minutes. By car, the trip takes about 30 minutes. By tour, the trip typically takes about 4-5 hours.

Tips

Here are a few tips for getting from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier:

  • Book your transportation in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season.
  • Consider the weather conditions when choosing your mode of transportation. If it is raining or snowing, a bus or taxi may be a better option than driving yourself.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for your hike. The trails at Mendenhall Glacier can be steep and slippery.
  • Pack a lunch or snacks if you plan on spending a long time at the glacier. There are a few restaurants at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, but they can be crowded during peak season.

Getting from Juneau Cruise Port to Mendenhall Glacier is easy and convenient. There are a variety of transportation options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. With a little planning, you can enjoy the stunning views of Mendenhall Glacier on your next trip to Alaska.

How do I get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier?

There are several ways to get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The most popular options are:

  • By bus: The Juneau-Douglas City Transit System (JDS) offers a shuttle bus that runs between the cruise port and Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs $20 round-trip.
  • By taxi: Taxis are also available from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The fare is typically around $50 one-way.
  • By rental car: You can also rent a car and drive yourself to Mendenhall Glacier. The drive takes about 20 minutes and costs around $30 for gas.

Which option is the best?

The best option for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget, the bus is the most economical option. If you’re short on time, a taxi is the fastest option. If you want the freedom to explore, renting a car is the best option.

What are the hours of operation for Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center?

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is open year-round, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, the hours may vary during the winter months. It is always best to check the website for the latest information.

What are the best times to visit Mendenhall Glacier?

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 beautiful during the winter months, when it is covered in snow.

What are the different activities available at Mendenhall Glacier?

There are a variety of activities available at Mendenhall Glacier, including:

  • Hiking: There are several hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints of the glacier. The most popular trail is the West Glacier Trail, which is a moderate 3-mile hike that takes you to the base of the glacier.
  • Biking: You can also bike along the Mendenhall Lake Trail, which is a paved trail that runs along the shore of the lake.
  • Boating: You can take a boat tour of Mendenhall Lake, which offers stunning views of the glacier.
  • Fishing: The waters of Mendenhall Lake are home to a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and char.

What are the safety precautions for visiting Mendenhall Glacier?

When visiting Mendenhall Glacier, it is important to take the following safety precautions:

  • Stay on the trails. It is dangerous to venture off-trail, as there are crevasses and other hazards.
  • Be aware of the weather. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it is important to be prepared for rain, snow, and wind.
  • Wear appropriate clothing. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes.
  • Bring water and snacks. It is important to stay hydrated and well-fed when hiking.
  • Hike with a buddy. It is always safer to hike with a friend in case of an emergency.

    there are a few different ways to get from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. The most popular option is to take a bus tour, which will take you through the Tongass National Forest and offer stunning views of the glacier. You can also take a taxi or Uber, or rent a car and drive yourself. No matter how you choose to get there, Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see for any visitor to Juneau. It is a truly majestic natural wonder that is sure to leave you in awe.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.