Trips to West Glacier Trail
Getting there
West Glacier Trail
The trail starts from the Mendenhall Glacier area, which the cruise docks reach by bus.
West Glacier Trail
The West Glacier Trail runs along the west side of Mendenhall Glacier, skirting Mendenhall Lake and climbing to bare rock above the ice. It is a strenuous hike, best done with a buddy and with care on the rocks.
About the West Glacier Trail
The West Glacier Trail follows the west side of Mendenhall Glacier, skirting Mendenhall Lake and climbing toward bare rock beside the ice. It gives a close view of the glacier from the land side.
A visit means a 7-mile round trip that takes about 4 to 6 hours, with a lookout near the top. Walkers stay on the path, watch for slippery rocks, and keep away from crevasses. Guides often walk people out to the ice, and crampons are recommended for anyone who steps onto the glacier.
- 7-mile round trip Length of the walk
- About 5 hours Round trip, lookout included
What you can do on the West Glacier Trail
Trips that go to West Glacier Trail
Booked with our partner Shore Excursions Group. Prices are per person.
Getting there, cost and time
The trail starts from the Mendenhall Glacier area, which the cruise docks reach by bus.
About 5 hours round trip.
Good to know
- Stay on the path, watch for slippery rocks, and keep well away from crevasses.
- Hike with a buddy and be bear aware; some backcountry areas have no cell service.
- Sign out when you leave the area.
- Crampons are recommended for walking on the glacier.
Near the West Glacier Trail
Mendenhall Lake
Mendenhall Lake is a glacial lake at the foot of Mendenhall Glacier, where paddlers in kayaks and canoes head out past the glacier's face. Guided trips and rentals both operate here.
Nugget Falls
Nugget Falls is a 377-foot waterfall that drops into Mendenhall Lake, reached on a short, flat trail from the Mendenhall Glacier area. It is one of the most popular walks in Juneau.
East Glacier Loop Trail
East Glacier Loop Trail is a moderate forest hike above the east side of Mendenhall Lake. You get good glacier views and a chance at black bear sightings.
Auke Lake
Auke Lake is a 160-acre lake in Auke Bay, a few miles from downtown Juneau. A spartan trail wraps around its eastern side through some of the largest Sitka spruces in the city.
Sailings that stop in Juneau
2,816 sailings on 18 cruise lines call here in the next twelve months. Totals are for two guests, taxes included.
Carnival Legend
Koningsdam
Norwegian Jade
Sources: Juneau Hiking Trails · Outdoor Activities Guide · Auke Lake, Wikipedia · Mount Roberts (Juneau, Alaska), Wikipedia · Juneau, Wikivoyage
Photo: Shore Excursions Group