Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*
Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike
By Above & Beyond Alaska
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About
Lowest price guaranteeFree cancellation
Ages 12-80, max of 12 per group
Duration: 5h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Professional guide
- All necessary paddling equipment
- Rain gear and rubber boots
- National Park fees
- Paddling and safety instructions
What's not included- Gratuities
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, USAThe “C” Sign, located near the cruise ship docks directly between Mt. Roberts Tramway and the green Taku Smokeries building, is our centralized downtown meeting location for all clients in the downtown area, including the majority of cruise ship passengers.
Pickup details- The “C” Sign, located near the cruise ship docks directly between Mt. Roberts Tramway and the green Taku Smokeries building, is our centralized downtown meeting location for all clients in the downtown area, including the majority of cruise ship passengers. Clients staying at major hotels in the Mendenhall Valley may be picked up directly from their hotel. Clients with their own transportation need to contact our office to arrange a meeting location.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5043P11- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a strong physical fitness level
- Age minimum of 12 years and older only
- Please note, this tour requires a minimum of 4 to operate. If minimum requirement is not met, reservation is subject to change or cancellation.
- Maximum weight 250 pounds
- You must include the following in the comments section when booking: raingear & shoe sizes for each passenger, (for adult men and women, S-XXL and youth, S-L) and any pertinent medical information. Smallest shoe size that can be accommodated is Youth 2 and largest is Adult 14.
- All clients will be outfitted in 8 person or 12 person canoes, with 1 to 2 guides depending on the group size.
- All clients must be in physically fit condition and capable of paddling 5-6 miles and hiking about 2 miles roundtrip. All clients must know how to swim.
- Due to the inherent risks involved, we do not permit pregnant guests to participant.
- With group departures we try to maximize our trip capacity and subsequently may need to alter the time to accommodate additional customers. If your trip's departure time changes we will notify you as soon as possible.
- Glacier Access and feature exploration: The Mendenhall Glacier is receding daily. Because the glacier is in a state of constant change, not all features may be present or accessible. We will explore the edges of the glacier safely from the bedrock. This tour does not include trekking on the glacier.
- A specific amount of time exploring the edge of the glacier cannot be guaranteed. The amount of time at the glacier is dependent on the group's pace and weather conditions
- Clients must disclose information regarding pertinent medical conditions/history, allergies and any type of restriction or limitation that might introduce a higher degree of challenge on this trip.
- RELEASE OF LIABILITY/ASSUMPTION OF RISK FORM: Every participant on the trip must sign a Release of Liability/Assumption of Risk form at the start of the trip. Alterations and/or deletions to the waiver are not permitted.
- Maximum weight is 250 lbs per person
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
- If you cancel between 8 and 14 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
- If you cancel within 7 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
- If you cancel at least 15 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5043P11
From
$386.62
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- ShaunDenisTaylor0 contributionsThanks for a great trip Josh!The Glacier was stunning, the scenery was amazing, and our guide Josh was unreal. He was informative, high energy, encouraging, and made our excursion memorable - would book with ABAK again for sure!Written September 15, 2024
- DavidP20120 contributionsGreat way to spend a day around JuneauThis was a great hike, incredibly scenic and beautiful and we were blessed with excellent weather. Due to the small size of our group, we were able to push on beyond a normal turnaround spot and getting a bit closer to the glacier than might otherwise happen. Our guide Bella was fantastic and the support that I received from Jess at the office in advance was excellent. Highly recommended!Written August 29, 2024
- crushmomma30 contributionsHighlight of our Alaska CruiseOur guide Ian was engaging, knowledgeable, and really friendly! He knew so much about Juneau, and Alaska, in general and was great at teaching us the best way to canoe! There were four of us canoeing and Ian took us close out to Nugget Falls and then over to a “beach” right by the Mendenhall Glacier. We hiked around for the absolute best view and had our snacks (provided by them, which were excellent, btw) and rested for a minute. The rocks on the beach were amazing and I could have spent hours just looking at the rocks! This tour is worth every penny and has been a highlight of our cruise so far!Written August 17, 2024
- I5713RGdianew0 contributionsFun adventureThis was a great adventure for us. The canoe trip across the lake was 3 miles each way. It was work but totally worth it. We were so close to Nugget Falls we could feel the mist and we were able to get close enough to Mendenhall Glacier to get great pictures.Dan and Ian were great guides and the group we were with was fun. Highly recommend!Written August 17, 2024
- Txtraveler9610 contributionsCanoe, Paddle & HIke: Fabulous Excursion!Our party of 4 thoroughly enjoyed the Mendenhall Glacier canoe, paddle and hike trip with our guides Dan and Hallie. The paddle portion was totally doable. We saw Nugget Falls up close and personal -- any closer and we would have been caught in the falls! The hike near Mendenhall was informative and provided plenty of time for photos. Our group is so pleased that we chose this trip rather than just going to the visitor's center since we got to see so much more of the receding glacier.Written July 29, 2024
- kypilgrim20180 contributionsRain doesn't wash away the funWe had a marvelous time, and that was with pouring rain the whole time! Jake was a great guide, and made the rainy day fun with some surprise hot chocolate during our kayaking trip. We couldn't see the glacier because of the fog, but we learned a lot about its history, and we were able to go back and see it later in the week thanks to the great introduction.Written July 22, 2024
- Tour406124545190 contributionsfun, excitingTaylor was awesome. We had a lot of fun. You hike up to see the glacier, but you dont get to go on the glacier. But it was a cool hike overall and I enjoyed it.Written July 21, 2024
- cassandrat4970 contributionsExperience glacier up closeFantast Experience! Josh our tour guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable and clearly passionate on the local wildlife and glacier, making it an absolutely fabulous experience. It does get quite windy and cold once you’re near the glacier so do bring gloves and beanies. We were provided with gear (pants, jackets and boots) as well as snacks which you’ll need after working out to spectacular views.Written July 4, 2024
- MarlaW370 contributionsBest excursion to actually see the Mendenhall glacierThis was an amazing day from our 3 guides including Kendall they were informative helpful and just made the day a delight for everyone in our group. The canoe trip was work but the destination made it worth every paddle . Getting up close to the glacier, learning about the changes in the last few years made it an exceptional experience. I would recommend this trip to anyone who does not mind some work paddling in the canoe since the experience of being up close to the glacier you cannot get anywhere else . I would come back and use this tour group over and over versus any tours the cruise lines sellWritten July 3, 2024
- L8181DXnatalieh0 contributionsBest of Alaska!This was by far one of the best excursions I have taken, and all of our family can finally agree on something, that this is a not to be missed opportunity. While pricey, it was worth every penny as there were so many elements included that truly gave us the ultimate Alaska experience. Many thanks to the entire team, and we hope to back again.Written June 25, 2024
- 93lindseyn0 contributionsAwesome, thrilling, fun, scenic and tough!We had an awesome hike with Josh and Taylor. The pace is fast and there are some really challenging inclines and rock scrambles (I wore hiking pants, but I should have gone a step further and worn pants with more stretch). My family of 5 (hubby and I, two teens and a 12 year old) joined 8 other adults. We relished the gorgeous sights, learned a lot about the glacier and had fun chatting with each other and the guides. The glacier is receding rapidly, I'm glad we got to see it while we still could.Written June 23, 2024
- Imran H0 contributionsGet to see the glacier close upGreat trip highlight of holiday so far. Great guides and a way to get close up to the glacier and enjoy nature close up and personal. Highly recommend this tour and this groupWritten June 22, 2024
- 560whitneys0 contributionsOnly Group to Use!We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed our guides Dan and Jake. ABAK had nice new HH gear for us to wear, shoes, backpacks and awesome snacks. Would hands down use for future adventures.Written June 21, 2024
- glaciernalu0 contributionsStunningly beautiful tour!This was one of the coolest things I've ever done! The tour was amazing. I loved that it was a small group, and we could interact with our knowledgeable guide throughout the tour. Every part of the tour--the floatplane ride, the packrafting, the glacier hike--they were all so stunningly beautiful. I would definitely recommend this tour!!Written June 18, 2024
- haygirl160 contributionsTexas Owned Alaska CanoeThis was the teens favorite excursion we did. Maybe because it was an adventure maybe because it was physical and maybe because we raced and beat every canoe out there Hailey and Kaylee rockWritten June 3, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
163 reviews
Excellent
156
Very good
6
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1
Anissa J
7 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Amazing tour! The only reason I am giving 4 stars is because we were not able to step foot on to the glacier which I feel like was unfortunately a little misleading since we booked this tour to be able to walk/trek on the glacier. Otherwise, all the other details and aspects of this tour were incredible. Our guides were beyond wonderful, the scenery was breathtaking, the company had a bag of snacks/goodies for us around lunch time which was very nice and we were able to take home the water bottle they provided us. I would highly recommend this tour, just know that you may not be able to walk on the glacier because it may not be safe.
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Anissa for your review! The Mendenhall Glacier is receding at a fast pace and due to this we are seeing drastic changes to the surface of the glacier. For this reason, it is not safe to walk on the glacier. We are glad to hear you still had an amazing tour, as it is a remarkable adventure to experience the glacier up close. Thank you for making us a part of your Alaskan adventure!
Written September 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Franny S
1 contribution
Aug 2022
My guides were Paul and Kelsie!
They were amazing! Even when we had people in the group who preferred not to go straight up to the glacier, they were very accommodating and made sure safety was PARAMOUNT throughout the trip. These two don't just deliver a trip, they deliver the trip SAFELY. I was glad to know they both had wilderness responder training, as that is not guaranteed on all tour guides in Alaska or anywhere else.
It was sad to know people aren't allowed on the glacier anymore but you'll be in safe hands!
They were amazing! Even when we had people in the group who preferred not to go straight up to the glacier, they were very accommodating and made sure safety was PARAMOUNT throughout the trip. These two don't just deliver a trip, they deliver the trip SAFELY. I was glad to know they both had wilderness responder training, as that is not guaranteed on all tour guides in Alaska or anywhere else.
It was sad to know people aren't allowed on the glacier anymore but you'll be in safe hands!
Written August 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review!
Written September 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NH_travelers_130
Georges Mills, NH15 contributions
Sep 2024 • Family
Just returned from a great trip with Halle, Kayley, and Dan. The team was well organized, fun, enthusiastic, and very knowledgeable. We drove to their shop, suited up with waterproof outfits, boots, and PFDs and drove a short distance to Mendenhall Lake. After a brief safety/paddling instruction we boarded the canoes and paddled out to a beautiful waterfall and Mendenhall glacier. Each member of the team told us about some geology, the trees, and the glacier. Then we paddled back, stored the canoes, and returned.
It was a great time and we highly recommend the adventure!
It was a great time and we highly recommend the adventure!
Written September 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It is so great to hear that Halle, Kayley and Dan gave you a trip to remember! We are glad that every aspect of the tour went well for you. Thank you so much for such a raving review, we hope to see you soon for another adventure.
Written September 11, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Teri
3 contributions
Our day was amazing despite the rain. Our guides, Kaylie and Maggie, were so fun and informative. We learned so much about the glacier eco system. We were truly amazed by Kaylie’s navigational chops. She guided us perfectly through fog so thick we could hear, but not see the canoe next to us or the surrounding mountains. We saw the glacier up close … which was breathtaking. Overall an incredible experience!
Written August 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're delighted to hear that you had such a memorable day despite the rain. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon!
Written September 5, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mommy3girls
Boynton Beach, FL58 contributions
Aug 2022
Wow, Wow, Wow! what a day. This tour was awesome. Starting with pickup and the guides Levi and Grant. What awesome young men they are. Both are super knowledgeable, friendly, polite etc (everything a mother would want). It was more strenuous than expected (mainly because the other family on the tour did not really participate in the canoeing). Seeing the glacier was breath taking and fun. The snack packs were perfect and the hot coco was a hit as well. This was a wonderful trip and highly recommend for people who want to do some physical exertion. My family talked about this trip more than any others that we did. Fantastic job!!!!
Written August 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! What a great day with Leevi and Grant, we will share this with them. Thank you for making us a part of your Alaskan adventure.
Written August 24, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kristen K
4 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
We chose this excursion when we were in Juneau based on friends having done it and loving it. And we agree! It was an amazing experience! Hiking through the rainforest to get to the lake was super cool, the canoeing was definitely work but WELL worth it, seeing Nugget Falls from so close was way better than a peak from the visitor's center and having a private viewing and experience at Mendenhall Glacier was amazing. The pictures we got as a family were super special. My 16 yr old daughter and 12 year old son were able to canoe even though it was hard work. The guides were great and had such a love for the glacier and what they do. We learned so much and would do this excursion again in a heart beat! Also, the gear they give you is great!
Written July 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write us such a kind review. It is so heartwarming to hear that your whole family had a blast on the trip. We look forward to hosting you again soon for another Alaskan adventure:)
Written July 27, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brandon P
11 contributions
This was by far the one of the best tours we have ever done and we have traveled the world. This is a once in a lifetime experience. If anyone is visiting Alaska or Juneau you have to do this. Because cruise ships are not sailing this year we had small almost semi-private tour plus there wasn't another outrigger on the glacier either.
Our tour guides, Jacques and Leah were super amazing. They provide you will all the stuff you need. You get a history lesson about the glacier, the undeniable truth about climate change and its erosion, and explore places few have ventured.
Our tour guides, Jacques and Leah were super amazing. They provide you will all the stuff you need. You get a history lesson about the glacier, the undeniable truth about climate change and its erosion, and explore places few have ventured.
Written June 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and making a part of your Alaskan experience! I will be sure to pass this review along to Jacques and Leah.
Written July 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TexasRascal
Texas14 contributions
Dan and Alex were exceptional guides. The day we went temps were in the upper 30s with intermittent rain. ABAK, the tour operator, supplied all the gear needed. They’ll give you rain suit, boots, life vest, and waterproof bag for storing personal items. You get a short canoeing lesson and safety briefing then it’s into the lake. The paddle is mildly strenuous as you’ll be paddling a couple miles but all the effort is worth it. Great trip with a great couple of guides.
Written May 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind words and for choosing us for your adventure. Providing exceptional service is at the core of what we do, and it's wonderful to see our efforts reflected in your feedback. We can't wait to see you again soon for more exploration and fun!
Written May 18, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Darrin
1 contribution
May 2022 • Couples
Colt and Libby were both informative, energetic, friendly, and we felt safe with their guidance. The equipment was clean, fit well, and maintained. Plenty of snacks and water provided and eaten right by the glacier. The weather was perfect, overcast but dry and chilly bringing out the blues in the glacier. The gear-up warehouse has clean bathrooms a definite plus. This is the second time going and ready for a third.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! The cloudy days can be a littler chillier, but it definitely helps the blues of the glacier pop out. Excited for you to join us a third time around!
Written June 21, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Casey
3 contributions
Outstanding Experience! Above and Beyond Alaska were wonderful, professional and helpful. Our tour of the glacier was amazing and our Guide Cash was fun, knowledgeable, and passionate in giving us the history of the glacier and the area. This tour was the highlight of our trip to Alaska. We highly recommend Above and Beyond Alaska and our guide Cash.
Written September 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! Sounded like an amazing time with Cash. We hope you come back and join us again!
Written November 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Does the company provide transportation to and from the cruise ship or a common meeting area?
Written November 20, 2022
Will we be paddling through icebergs in early July?
Written December 29, 2019
No, there are no icebergs. You will canoe on Mendenhall Lake for about 1-1 1/2 hours depending how fast & fit everyone is in your canoe. Then you’ll hike 1/2 mile or so to the glacier. You’ll then be able to walk and explore the glacier for about 2 hours. After...you’ll hike back to your canoe and canoe back.
It’s a benefit if you know how to paddle a canoe but not necessary. This was our favorite excursion on our cruise to Alaska.
Written January 29, 2020
Hi! Thank you for asking! Ice caves are a melting feature of glaciers that form and collapse as a glacier either recedes or expands. In the case of Mendenhall Glacier, previous ice caves have formed near the terminus area which is very accessible by canoe or hiking - making them more famous than other ice caves. We typically see at least one cave form and collapse over the course of the year but no one can predict when that will be. So yes, we do visit ice caves when there is one standing and it is safe to enter. But we can not guarantee access to an ice cave at any time for any group as they come and go so frequently. The glacier has TONS of amazing blue ice features that are worth exploring and being up on the ice is an incredible experience!
Whether with us or another company, please make time to trek on to a glacier. It's a completely unique and unforgettable adventure!
Written September 2, 2019
Hi! We are arriving on 6/25/19. Is the space available for 10 on the glacier canoe paddle and trek. We arrive at 2:30 and leave at 11:00
Thank you!
Written April 14, 2019
Hi! Thank you for reaching out! My apologies we were late to respond, we don't receive notifications when questions are posted. At this time, we do have space for 10 people at 3pm on 6/25/2019. Please contact us to book or if you have any additional questions. Our office number is 907-364-2333. Thank you!
Written May 6, 2019
Our cruise ship arrives in Juneau on June 3 at 1:30pm. Is there a tour that is possible for two people? Missy
Written January 16, 2019
Hi Missy - Yes our Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek starts at 2:30pm that day. We would love to have you join us that day for an adventure! Please feel free to reach out to us directly with any additional questions.
Written January 29, 2019
Scott C
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
I see there is ice climbing in a couple of pictures or repelling... which tour is that on?
Written August 26, 2018
Hi Scott - Please check out our website for our Glacier Blue Trek & Climb tour which includes ice climbing and all the amazing other features on our Glacier Trek tour but longer, more adventurous, and includes strapping on crampons and mountaineering boots to climb up the cervasses and ice peaks that can only be accessed with the specialized equipment. It's our teams favorite trip so we'd love to have you join us!
Written August 27, 2018
They will allow you self pace, i would say not strenuous , but maybe you just need to be very careful.
Written September 2, 2019
Our Cruise ship docks at 6:30 am and departs at 4 on 7/18/2018. We are good to do this tour at 7:30 correct?
Written April 23, 2018
7:00am, 8:30 am or 11:00 am....which one of these start times usually has the most fit people that would not hold us back?
Written April 19, 2018
Any time it can happen that people are lazy to paddle... I’ve done paddling on my own :)) Maybe 11 am would be better choice, I went at 7 am
Written May 10, 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.