Best of Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

Exploring the best of Juneau’s natural wonders and cultural delights is a must-do experience for any adventurous traveler. Imagine standing in awe before the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, its massive ice walls gleaming in the crisp Alaskan air. Then, venture out to Auke Bay, where the thrill of spotting humpback whales breaching the waters adds an unforgettable moment of wonder. But the adventure doesn’t end there – a delightful salmon bake promises to delight the senses, offering a taste of Tlingit tradition that lingers long after the meal has been savored. This all-inclusive tour is more than just a day trip; it’s a journey that captures the heart and soul of Juneau.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Juneau tour showcasing the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching in Auke Bay, and a traditional Tlingit-inspired salmon bake.
• Immersive experience of Juneau’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage through expert-led activities and demonstrations.
• Seamless logistics with hotel pickups, accessibility options, and an all-inclusive package for a stress-free Alaskan adventure.
• Exceptional customer reviews highlighting the tour’s memorable highlights, from breathtaking glacier views to unforgettable whale encounters.
• Weather flexibility with alternative date options or refunds, ensuring a worry-free experience in Juneau’s ever-changing climate.

Overview of the Tour

This 6-hour all-inclusive tour in Juneau, Alaska, promises an immersive experience showcasing the region’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights include the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching in the scenic Auke Bay, and a demonstration by a Tlingit Master Carver.

Capping off the day is a traditional salmon bake, featuring grilled salmon, wild-rice pilaf, and more.

With a 4.4-star rating from 84 reviews, this tour is a must-do for visitors seeking to explore Juneau’s breathtaking landscapes, abundant marine life, and indigenous culture.

The tour’s all-inclusive nature and seamless logistics make it an effortless way to experience the best of this Alaskan destination.

Exploring Mendenhall Glacier

The tour begins with a visit to the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, a 12-mile-long ice formation that dominates the landscape.

Visitors are captivated by the sheer size and power of this natural wonder. The glacier’s visitors center provides fascinating insights into its formation and evolution, transporting guests back in time to witness the glacier’s journey.

The experience evokes a range of emotions:

1. Awe, as you gaze upon the glacier’s towering blue walls and stark contrast against the surrounding wilderness.
2. Appreciation, as you learn about the glacier’s crucial role in shaping the local ecosystem.
3. Humility, when confronted with the immense scale and enduring presence of this ancient ice mass.

Whale Watching in Auke Bay

From the grandeur of Mendenhall Glacier, the tour now whisks travelers to the serene waters of Auke Bay for an exhilarating whale watching adventure.

Aboard a 48-passenger jet boat with large windows and an observation deck, guests embark on a 2-hour 45-minute excursion to spot majestic humpback whales. A knowledgeable naturalist guide shares insights about the whales and the surrounding marine life.

As the boat glides across the calm bay, the anticipation builds, and suddenly, a massive whale breaches the surface, thrilling onlookers with its power and grace.

This unforgettable encounter with the giants of the deep is a highlight of the comprehensive Juneau tour experience.

Tlingit Master Carver Demonstration

After exploring the natural wonders of Mendenhall Glacier and the whale-filled waters of Auke Bay, the tour now takes visitors on a cultural journey to witness the artistry of a Tlingit Master Carver.

With skilled hands, the carver and his son meticulously shape towering totem poles and intricate silver jewelry, sharing their deep-rooted traditions.

Visitors are captivated by:

1. The rhythmic tapping of the carving tools as they carefully chisel the wood.
2. The carver’s passionate explanation of the symbolic meanings behind the totem’s intricate designs.
3. The opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs that capture the essence of Tlingit culture.

This intimate cultural experience allows guests to enjoy the rich heritage of Juneau’s indigenous people.

Delightful Salmon Bake Experience

Sizzling scents of grilled salmon permeate the air as guests gather at the traditional salmon bake. Plates are piled high with succulent salmon fillets, accompanied by wild-rice pilaf, tender chicken, and an array of fresh salads.

The lively ambiance is enhanced by the crackling of the fire and the chatter of fellow travelers. As diners savor each bite, they’re treated to a stunning view of the Alaskan wilderness.

The salmon bake not only satisfies the palate but also immerses guests in the rich culinary heritage of the region. It’s a delightful pause amidst the day’s adventures, leaving everyone satisfied and eager to explore more of Juneau’s natural wonders.

Transportation and Meeting Details

Conveniently, the tour begins at the Mount Roberts Tramway, located at 490 S Franklin St in downtown Juneau.

Travelers can expect a hassle-free experience, as the tour includes pickup and drop-off from downtown hotels.

The tour company ensures accessibility, with accommodations for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals.

Families can feel at ease, with infant seating available on laps.

The tour’s inclusive nature extends to permits, gratuities, and even the option to purchase alcoholic beverages.

With these thoughtful logistics, guests can immerse themselves fully in the Juneau adventure, without the burden of navigating transportation or securing additional amenities.

1. Pickup and drop-off from downtown hotels for a seamless experience.
2. Wheelchair, stroller, and service animal accessibility for inclusive participation.
3. Infant seating and alcohol availability for a well-rounded experience.

Accessibility and Inclusions

With accessibility and inclusions at the forefront, this Juneau tour caters to diverse traveler needs. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Infants can ride comfortably on laps.

The all-inclusive package covers pickup and drop-off from downtown hotels, a buffet lunch, hot and cold beverages, transportation, a naturalist guide, live entertainment, permits, a whale sighting guarantee, gratuities, and souvenir options.

Even alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. This comprehensive offering ensures an effortless and enjoyable experience for visitors of all abilities, making the tour an excellent choice for families, groups, or solo travelers.

Customer Feedback and Policies

The tour’s customer feedback paints a generally positive picture, with reviewers praising the memorable whale sightings, breathtaking glacier views, and delectable salmon bake.

Standout experiences include witnessing whales dramatically breach the water and enjoying the ambiance of the salmon bake.

However, some guests have expressed a desire for more time at the Mendenhall Glacier and have raised concerns about the tour’s pacing and the quality of the salmon.

The tour company’s weather policy, which allows for alternative dates or full refunds in case of cancellations, has been well-received by travelers.

1. ✨ Awe-inspiring whale sightings, with majestic breaching displays.
2. 🍽️ Delightful salmon bake with a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
3. 🏔️ Breathtaking vistas of the towering Mendenhall Glacier.

Things To Known

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Guests are not permitted to bring their own food on this tour. The all-inclusive package features a traditional salmon bake with a variety of hot and cold menu items, making outside food unnecessary and prohibited.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is generally open to all ages, but infants can be seated on laps. There are no specific age restrictions mentioned. Families with young children are welcome to join the tour and experience the glacier, whale watching, and salmon bake.

Can I Book the Tour for a Larger Group?

The tour can accommodate larger groups, with a maximum capacity of 90 travelers. Guests should check availability and book in advance to ensure the desired group size can be accommodated.

What Should I Bring to the Tour?

The tour provides all the necessary equipment, but you’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for the changing weather, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning glacier, whales, and cultural experiences.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly offer discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s best to check with the tour company directly, as they may have special pricing or discounts available that are not listed on the general tour overview.

Sum Up

The "Best of Juneau" tour is a captivating blend of Alaskan wonder and culture. From the majestic Mendenhall Glacier to the thrilling whale watching and the delightful salmon bake, this experience offers an unforgettable exploration of Juneau’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Guests are left with a deep appreciation for the region’s stunning landscapes and the Tlingit traditions that make it truly exceptional.