How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau Cruise Port: A Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Standing at 13,120 feet tall, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Juneau, Alaska. Visitors can take a cruise, hike, or even go kayaking on the glacier itself. But how do you get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau Cruise Port?

In this article, we’ll walk you through the different ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier, including the pros and cons of each option. We’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of your visit to this natural wonder.

So if you’re planning a trip to Juneau, be sure to add Mendenhall Glacier to your itinerary!

Method Time Cost
Taxi 15 minutes $25-$35
Bus 30 minutes $10-$15
Helicopter Tour 10 minutes $150-$200

Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska. Located just a short drive from Juneau, the glacier is a stunning natural wonder that offers visitors a glimpse into the beauty of the Last Frontier. There are a few different ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port, and the best option for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and interests.

In this article, we will discuss the two main ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port: by cruise ship and by car. We will provide information on the cost, time, and different options for each method of transportation. We will also provide tips on how to make the most of your visit to Mendenhall Glacier.

By Cruise Ship

If you are taking a cruise to Alaska, you will likely have the opportunity to visit Mendenhall Glacier. Many cruise lines offer day trips to the glacier, which typically include a narrated boat tour, a hike on the glacier, and a visit to the visitor center.

How long does it take to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port by cruise ship?

The time it takes to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port by cruise ship will vary depending on the cruise line and the itinerary. However, most day trips to the glacier will take between 4 and 6 hours.

What are the different cruise ship companies that offer tours to Mendenhall Glacier?

Several cruise ship companies offer day trips to Mendenhall Glacier, including:

  • Holland America Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line

What are the different types of tours that are offered to Mendenhall Glacier?

The types of tours that are offered to Mendenhall Glacier will vary depending on the cruise line. However, most tours will include a narrated boat tour of the glacier, a hike on the glacier, and a visit to the visitor center.

What are the costs of different tours to Mendenhall Glacier?

The cost of a tour to Mendenhall Glacier will vary depending on the cruise line, the type of tour, and the number of people in your party. However, most tours will cost between $100 and $200 per person.

By Car

If you are not taking a cruise to Alaska, you can also drive to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes and is relatively easy.

How long does it take to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port by car?

The drive from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier takes approximately 30 minutes.

What is the best route to take to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port?

The best route to take to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port is:

  • Take Marine Way to Egan Drive.
  • Turn left onto Egan Drive.
  • Follow Egan Drive for approximately 3 miles.
  • Turn right onto Glacier Highway.
  • Follow Glacier Highway for approximately 10 miles.
  • Turn left onto Mendenhall Loop Road.
  • Follow Mendenhall Loop Road for approximately 5 miles.
  • You will arrive at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

What are the different parking options at Mendenhall Glacier?

There are several different parking options at Mendenhall Glacier, including:

  • The Visitor Center parking lot. The Visitor Center parking lot is located at the end of Mendenhall Loop Road. It is the closest parking lot to the glacier and is the most convenient option for visitors who want to hike on the glacier.
  • The West Glacier Trailhead parking lot. The West Glacier Trailhead parking lot is located approximately 2 miles from the Visitor Center. It is a good option for visitors who want to hike on the West Glacier Trail.
  • The East Glacier Trailhead parking lot. The East Glacier Trailhead parking lot is located approximately 4 miles from the Visitor Center. It is a good option for visitors who want to hike on the East Glacier Trail.

What are the costs of parking at Mendenhall Glacier?

The cost of parking at Mendenhall Glacier is $10 per car.

Mendenhall Glacier is a stunning natural wonder that is well worth a visit. Whether you are taking a cruise to Alaska or driving from Juneau, there are a few different ways to get to the glacier. By choosing the right method of transportation, you can make the most of your

3. By Bus

  • How long does it take to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port by bus?

The drive from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier takes about 30 minutes. The bus ride is a scenic one, as it takes you through the Tongass National Forest and past several waterfalls.

  • What are the different bus companies that offer service to Mendenhall Glacier?

There are two bus companies that offer service to Mendenhall Glacier:

  • Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center: This bus departs from the cruise ship terminal and takes you directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs $25 per person.
  • Mendenhall Glacier Express: This bus departs from the cruise ship terminal and takes you on a narrated tour of the Mendenhall Valley. The ride takes about 45 minutes and costs $35 per person.
  • What are the different types of bus tours that are offered to Mendenhall Glacier?

There are two types of bus tours that are offered to Mendenhall Glacier:

  • Scenic tour: This tour takes you on a narrated drive through the Tongass National Forest and past several waterfalls. The tour ends at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you can learn about the glacier and take a short hike on the glacier trail.
  • Glacier hiking tour: This tour takes you on a guided hike on the Mendenhall Glacier. The hike is about 3 miles long and takes you to the base of the glacier.
  • What are the costs of different bus tours to Mendenhall Glacier?

The cost of a bus tour to Mendenhall Glacier varies depending on the type of tour you choose. A scenic tour costs $25 per person, while a glacier hiking tour costs $35 per person.

4. By Hiking

  • How long does it take to hike to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port?

The hike from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier takes about 4 hours. The hike is a challenging one, as it is steep and gains about 1,000 feet in elevation. However, the views from the top are stunning, and you will have the opportunity to see the glacier up close.

  • What is the best route to take to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port?

The best route to take to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port is the West Glacier Trail. This trail starts at the Mendenhall Valley Visitor Center and takes you on a steep climb to the glacier overlook. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow.

  • What are the different types of hiking trails that lead to Mendenhall Glacier?

There are three different hiking trails that lead to Mendenhall Glacier:

  • West Glacier Trail: This trail is the most popular trail to the glacier and is the one described above. It is a 4-mile round-trip hike that gains about 1,000 feet in elevation.
  • East Glacier Trail: This trail is a shorter and easier option than the West Glacier Trail. It is a 2-mile round-trip hike that gains about 500 feet in elevation.
  • South Glacier Trail: This trail is the most challenging trail to the glacier. It is a 6-mile round-trip hike that gains about 1,500 feet in elevation.
  • What are the costs of hiking to Mendenhall Glacier?

The cost of hiking to Mendenhall Glacier is free. However, you will need to pay a parking fee at the Mendenhall Valley Visitor Center. The parking fee is $5 per car.

Hiking to Mendenhall Glacier is a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and the views from the top are stunning. If you are visiting Juneau, be sure to add a hike to Mendenhall Glacier to your itinerary.

How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau Cruise Port?

  • Q: What is the best way to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port?

A: There are several ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port, including by bus, taxi, or tour. The most popular option is to take a bus, which takes about 20 minutes and costs $25 per person. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive and take about the same amount of time. Tours are another option, and they typically include a guided hike to the glacier.

  • Q: How long does it take to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port?

A: The drive from Juneau cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier takes about 20 minutes.

  • Q: What is the best time to visit Mendenhall Glacier?

A: 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 still beautiful in the winter months, when it is covered in snow.

  • Q: What are the different ways to see Mendenhall Glacier?

There are several different ways to see Mendenhall Glacier, including by hiking, biking, taking a boat tour, or taking a flightseeing tour. The most popular option is to hike to the glacier, which takes about 2 hours round-trip. Hiking trails range from easy to difficult, so there is a hike for everyone.

  • Q: How much does it cost to see Mendenhall Glacier?

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.

  • Q: Where can I find more information about Mendenhall Glacier?

For more information about Mendenhall Glacier, you can visit the following websites:

  • [Mendenhall Glacier National Park](https://www.nps.gov/megl/index.htm)
  • [Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center](https://www.nps.gov/megl/planyourvisit/visitorcenter.htm)
  • [Mendenhall Glacier Tours](https://www.mendenhallglaciertours.com)

    there are a few different ways to get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau cruise port. The most popular option is to take a bus tour, which will take you to the glacier and provide you with a guided tour. 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 breathtaking natural wonder that is sure to leave you in awe.

Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska.
  • There are a few different ways to get to the glacier from Juneau cruise port.
  • The most popular option is to take a bus tour.
  • You can also take a taxi, Uber, or rent a car and drive yourself.
  • Mendenhall Glacier is a truly breathtaking 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.