What it's like
Rainforest Trail follows a path through temperate rainforest near the end of North Douglas Highway, north of the city. It ends at a small beach with views over the water, where the forest stops and the Inlet opens out in front of you.
A visit is an easy walk in and out. The trail is accessible and takes about 30 to 45 minutes each way. At the beach you can look for sea lions and humpback whales, and the trail is a quiet way to reach the shore.
Good to know
- The trail is accessible, so it suits people who want a level walk without steep climbs.
- Juneau is reached only by air or sea, and car rentals at the airport are needed to explore areas outside town on your own.
- The beach is a small, quiet stretch, so the walk is best for seeing the shore rather than a long day on the sand.
Rainforest Trail
Rainforest Trail is an accessible walk through rainforest to a small beach with views near the end of North Douglas Highway. It is one of the easiest ways to reach the shore on the Juneau side of the water.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Whale waters off Juneau
Whale watching from Juneau means a boat trip into the Inside Passage waters around the city. Humpback and orca whales feed here, and boats carry visitors out to see them.
Juneau Channel Island State Marine Park
A group of 14 islands in the waters off Juneau, reached by boat. Paddlers come for wildlife viewing, photography and sport fishing among the islands.
Mendenhall Glacier
A massive glacier calving into its own lake, and Juneau's most popular attraction. Most visitors look at the face from the visitor center, then walk the trails to Nugget Falls.
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.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Rainforest and jungle
