Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall & Whale Watching Tour

If you’re headed to Juneau and looking for a well-rounded day of natural beauty and wildlife, this tour offers just that. It combines an easy hike to the iconic Nugget Falls, a close-up look at the impressive Mendenhall Glacier, and a thrilling whale-watching cruise through some of Alaska’s most scenic waters. Priced at $159 per person, it promises a full 5-hour experience that balances adventure with relaxation.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides really enhance the experience with their enthusiasm and insight. Second, the opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat—something that’s hard to beat for wildlife lovers. That said, one thing to consider is that the boat tour isn’t guaranteed to see whales every trip, although the company does guarantee you’ll see whales or get your money back. This tour suits active travelers who want to maximize their time exploring both land and sea without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Includes both glacier exploration and whale watching in one seamless package
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude
• Extra time at Nugget Falls allows for a leisurely hike and photo opportunities
• The boat tour offers indoor seating, snacks, and binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Flexible options for additional time at the glacier area
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and boat rides

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of what to Expect

This tour starts with a central pickup in Juneau, making logistics straightforward. You’ll hop onto a comfortable bus that offers scenic views and informative commentary en route to the Mendenhall Valley. Once there, your adventure switches gears to the water—board a jetboat for your whale-watching cruise. The boat cruise winds through the Favorite Channel, Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal, or Saginaw Channel, with the naturalist guide helping spot humpback whales and other wildlife.

Being on a smaller boat (most likely) means better chances for close sightings. You’ll enjoy hot chocolate and coffee to keep warm during the cruise, along with a complimentary snack—little touches that make the trip cozy and enjoyable even if the weather isn’t perfect. Use the included binoculars to scan the waters for whales breaching or tail-slapping, and keep your camera ready.

After the boat ride, you’ll arrive at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, where you have substantial free time—about an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours. This is ample opportunity to hike to Nugget Falls, a stunning waterfall that overlooks the glacier, or explore the visitor center to learn about this icy wonder.

The Hike and Wildlife Viewing

The short gravel trail to Nugget Falls is accessible and well-maintained, suitable for most visitors and even strollers. The reviews mention that most people take around 45 minutes for the walk, but if you’re in no rush, you have plenty of time to linger or explore further.

There’s also a chance to see spawning salmon and maybe even black bears around Steep Creek, making this part of the trip a feast for wildlife enthusiasts. Some travelers appreciated the extra time here, noting that it made their visit more relaxed and memorable.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is included round-trip from the designated meeting point outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building. The bus ride offers stunning views and a chance to learn from a friendly guide. The group size tends to be manageable—small enough for personalized attention but large enough for a lively atmosphere.

The tour is designed for those who want an organized, informative experience without the stress of self-planning. Just note, if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, this might not be suitable due to some steep ramps and gravel paths.

The Value for Money

At $159, this tour provides a solid combination of experiences. You’re paying for transportation, guided wildlife viewing, the boat cruise, snacks, and extra time at the glacier—a package that many reviewers say is a good deal compared to booking separately or through cruise line offerings. Several reviews highlight seeing up to a dozen whales or more, with naturalists providing expert commentary, making it well worth the price for wildlife fans.

More Great Tours Nearby

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive
You’ll start with a pickup from a centrally located meeting point. The ride to Mendenhall Valley offers a chance to relax and take in Juneau’s lush surroundings. Guides are often praised for their engaging commentary, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Whale-Watching Jetboat Cruise
Boarding a comfortable jetboat, you’ll cruise through waters known for whale activity. The naturalist guides help identify breaching humpbacks, and with binoculars provided, you’ll have excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. The reviews frequently mention how many whales are seen—some report as many as 11-14 whales bubble-net feeding, which is a spectacle you won’t forget.

Visit to Mendenhall Glacier
After the boat, you’ll arrive at the glacier area. The free time here is generous—most visitors use it to hike to Nugget Falls or explore the visitor center. The waterfall, which overlooks the glacier, is a classic Alaska image, and many reviews note how much better it is to visit outside of crowded tour groups.

Additional Wildlife and Nature
If you’re lucky, you might see spawning salmon in Steep Creek or even a black bear foraging nearby. Some guests comment on how the naturalist guides enrich these moments with interesting facts and stories, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

Return Journey
The tour wraps up with a scenic bus ride back to Juneau. The guides often share tips for further exploration and dining, rounding out the day with practical advice.

Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—some describing them as enthusiastic, fun, and packed with facts. One reviewer mentioned how the guide pointed out whales by name, making the experience feel personal. The friendly bus driver and the overall organization are also frequently highlighted, with many travelers appreciating how smooth and stress-free this trip is.

The extra time at Nugget Falls is particularly appreciated, as it allows for more relaxed exploration, unlike some tours that rush through the glacier area. “Getting there early before all the big tour buses” was a comment from a traveler who enjoyed a less crowded, more intimate experience.

Some reviews note minor hiccups, like a tour guide talking non-stop or occasional communication lapses, but these are generally overshadowed by the overall quality of the experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be walking and exposed to potentially cool or rainy weather.
• Bring your camera and binoculars, even though these are provided, to capture the wildlife and scenery.
• Allow extra time if you want to explore Nugget Falls thoroughly—most walk there in about 45 minutes, but the option to stay longer is available.
• Book in advance because popular dates tend to fill up, and the tour offers a flexible “reserve now & pay later” option.
• If you’re sensitive to steep ramps, be aware that some parts of the glacier area involve navigating a ramp that could be challenging at high tide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers eager to see Alaska’s iconic glaciers and abundant wildlife in one day without multiple bookings. Nature lovers and families will enjoy the balance of land and sea experiences, especially with the manageable group sizes and engaging guides.

Those who enjoy a little adventure, scenic views, and educational commentary will find this tour enriching. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding outing, consider whether the walking and boat segments suit your needs.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts from a designated meeting point outside the Mt. Roberts Tramway building.

How long is the free time at Mendenhall Glacier? You get about an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours, enough to hike to Nugget Falls, visit the visitor center, or explore the creek area.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Snacks and coffee are provided on the boat, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer more substantial food.

Can I see whales every trip? The company guarantees you’ll see whales or get your money back. Many reviews mention seeing multiple whales, sometimes dozens, depending on the day.

Is the boat ride comfortable? Yes, the boat has indoor seating, and the naturalist guides help point out wildlife. Binoculars are provided for better viewing.

How strenuous is the walk to Nugget Falls? It’s about a 45-minute walk over a smooth gravel path, suitable for most, including strollers. Longer stays are possible.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the walk is manageable, and wildlife viewing is exciting. Just be aware of some moderate walking and boat ride considerations.

What’s the best time to see whales? While whales are present from spring through fall, many reviews highlight sightings in September and May.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is best suited for those able to handle moderate walking and boat rides, so very young children or those with mobility concerns might find it challenging.

Final Thoughts

This Juneau tour offers a well-balanced day of Alaska’s most striking sights—glacial ice, thundering waterfalls, and majestic whales. The combination of guided land exploration and intimate boat viewing makes it a comprehensive experience that appeals to nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

You’ll love the personalized attention from guides, the ability to get close to wildlife, and the stunning scenery that makes Alaska so special. The extra time at Nugget Falls, in particular, allows you to soak in the scenery at your own pace, capturing memorable photographs.

While no trip can guarantee perfect whale sightings, the tour’s reputation for frequent whale encounters, combined with the naturalist’s expertise, makes it a dependable choice. For travelers seeking a full, engaging day that showcases the best of Juneau’s glaciers and marine life, this tour offers solid value and unforgettable moments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and learning from passionate guides, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who want a thoughtfully organized day in Alaska’s wilderness. Those seeking a relaxed, less physically demanding experience might want to consider their pace or explore additional options.

In the end, this tour captures the essence of Alaska—spectacular glaciers, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views—in a way that’s accessible and fun. With its high marks and glowing reviews, it’s an outing that many visitors consider a highlight of their trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: