Tucked away in the heart of Alaska’s rugged landscape, the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers a truly unique opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier. Gliding silently across the serene waters, visitors can enjoy the awe-inspiring Alaskan wilderness, with the chance to spot local wildlife and witness the dramatic calving of the glacier up close. Though weather conditions may occasionally disrupt the tour, those brave enough to embark on this adventure are rewarded with an unforgettable glimpse into the raw power and majesty of one of nature’s most magnificent wonders.
Key Points
- The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers visitors the chance to explore the Mendenhall Glacier from the serene waters of Mendenhall Lake in Juneau, Alaska.
- The 4-hour guided tour includes all necessary gear and equipment, and highlights the breathtaking Alaskan nature, from the glacier to the lake’s peaceful atmosphere.
- Participants can paddle through the glacial lake, catch glimpses of the Mendenhall Glacier, and spot local wildlife, providing an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
- The tour has age and weight restrictions, and is not recommended for those with certain physical limitations.
- The tour may be canceled at the last minute due to inclement weather, as the Alaskan climate can render the lake conditions unsafe for canoeing.
Activity Details
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Mendenhall Glacier up close from the serene waters of the Mendenhall Lake.
This 4-hour activity, limited by National Parks Service permits, allows participants to witness the grandeur of one of Alaska’s most iconic natural wonders.
Guests will meet at the Mt. Roberts Tramway building near the cruise pier and embark on a roundtrip journey, with all necessary gear and equipment provided, including rain jackets, rain pants, rain boots, paddling gloves, and dry bags.
The tour highlights the breathtaking Alaskan nature, from the impressive Mendenhall Glacier to the peaceful Mendenhall Lake, providing an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can marvel at the famous Mendenhall Glacier, a majestic natural wonder, as they canoe across the serene waters of Mendenhall Lake.
The tour highlights include:
- Paddling through the tranquil glacial lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
- Catching glimpses of the towering, ice-blue Mendenhall Glacier and its dramatic, calving edges.
- Exploring the Alaskan wilderness, with the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles, bears, and seals.
- Immersing oneself in the serene, peaceful atmosphere of the lake and its glacier-carved surroundings.
This intimate, guided canoe tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Alaska’s iconic Mendenhall Glacier up close.
Inclusions
The canoe tour package includes roundtrip transportation, as well as essential gear and equipment like rain jackets, rain pants, rain boots, paddling gloves, and dry bags.
Participants will also be provided with bottled water, snacks, and a hot beverage to keep them refreshed and comfortable throughout the excursion.
These inclusions ensure visitors are well-prepared to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Mendenhall Lake and the surrounding glacial landscape.
The tour operator has thoughtfully curated this equipment to enhance the overall experience, allowing guests to focus on the breathtaking scenery and wildlife without worrying about the elements.
With these essential provisions, guests can fully enjoy the Alaskan adventure and create lasting memories.
Restrictions
Certain age, weight, and physical restrictions apply to participating in the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour.
Specifically, guests must be at least 12 years old and weigh between 90 and 240 pounds to join the excursion.
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back, shoulder, or hip problems, as paddling for up to 2 hours may be challenging.
Pregnant guests are also not permitted on the tour.
The key restrictions for the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour are:
- Minimum age: 12 years old
- Minimum weight: 90 lbs, Maximum weight: 240 lbs
- Not recommended for guests with back, shoulder, or hip problems
- Pregnant guests not permitted
These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants during the 4-hour excursion on the lake and in the presence of the stunning Mendenhall Glacier.
Weather Cancellation
Due to the unpredictable nature of the Alaskan climate, the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour may be canceled at or before the scheduled time based on real-time wind readings.
Katabatic winds, which are cold and strong downslope winds, can occur on hot and sunny days, rendering the lake conditions unsafe for canoeing. These sudden gusts can make the normally serene Mendenhall Lake dangerously choppy, putting participants at risk.
To ensure the safety of all guests, the tour operator closely monitors wind speeds and won’t hesitate to cancel the tour if conditions are deemed unsafe. Flexibility and understanding are key, as last-minute cancellations due to inclement weather are an unavoidable reality of exploring the Alaskan wilderness.
Getting There
Guests heading out on the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour will want to make their way to the conveniently located Mt. Roberts Tramway building near the cruise ship pier, which serves as the tour’s departure point.
From there, it’s a straightforward journey:
- Follow the signs to the tramway building, located just a short walk from the cruise terminal.
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour departure.
- Check in with the tour staff and receive your safety gear and paddling instructions.
- Board the transport vehicle for the scenic 12-mile drive to Mendenhall Glacier, where your adventure on the lake begins.
With a centralized starting location, getting to the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour is a breeze for cruise ship visitors.
What to Bring
The Mendenhall Lake canoe tour provides participants with the necessary gear and equipment, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience on the water. Visitors should come prepared with comfortable, weather-appropriate attire, as the tour takes place in the great outdoors of Alaska.
Participants will receive a rain jacket, rain pants, rain boots, paddling gloves, and a dry bag to keep their belongings safe and dry. Bottled water and snacks are also provided, along with a hot beverage to warm up during the tour.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for guests with back, shoulder, or hip problems, and pregnant guests aren’t permitted. Participants should be able to paddle for up to 2 hours.
Tips for the Tour
Before embarking on the Mendenhall Lake canoe tour, visitors should keep a few tips in mind to make the most of their experience. Dressing in layers is crucial, as the weather can change quickly in Alaska’s dynamic environment. Participants should also bring sun protection, such as sunglaces and sunscreen, to shield themselves from the region’s brilliant natural light.
Bring a small dry bag to keep personal items safe and dry.
Pack a snack and stay hydrated by bringing water.
Be mindful of the weight limit and capacity of the canoes.
Listen closely to the guide’s safety instructions and paddle techniques.
Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Mendenhall Lake canoe adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do if I Feel Seasick During the Tour?
If one feels seasick during the tour, they should notify the tour guide immediately. The guide can provide ginger chews, motion sickness wristbands, or suggest resting in the canoe to help alleviate the discomfort and ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages on the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour, though the tour includes bottled water, snacks, and a hot beverage. Bringing additional items can enhance the experience, as long as they don’t interfere with the activity.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is allowed during the tour, as capturing the stunning scenery of Mendenhall Glacier and Mendenhall Lake is encouraged. Guests can take photos throughout the 4-hour canoe excursion to document their Alaskan adventure.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on the Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour. The tour is focused on the natural environment, and the presence of animals could distract from the experience and pose safety concerns for both guests and wildlife.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?
There’s no option to upgrade this tour package. The tour includes all necessary gear and transportation, and modifications aren’t available. Guests should book early as permits are limited by the National Park Service.
Recap
The Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majesty of the Mendenhall Glacier up close.
Paddling through the serene waters, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness, spotting local wildlife and experiencing the dramatic calving of the glacier firsthand.
Despite the potential for weather-related cancellations, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an intimate connection with Alaska’s natural wonders.
