Why Go

No visit to Juneau is complete without a close-up look at the Mendenhall Glacier. The Juneau Icefield's most visible ambassador, 13-mile long Mendenhall Glacier ends at Mendenhall Lake and is easily viewed from the Forest Service's historic visitor center. Here's what you'll find here:

  • Modern, accessible visitor center (nominal entry fee, federal rec passes accepted) with movie every 20 minutes, interactive exhibits, telescopes, ranger talks, children’s activities and bookstore
  • Spectacular views of Mendenhall Glacier and icebergs floating in the lake
  • Trails, easy to moderate, through the forest and along the lake
  • Wildlife-- mountain goats, bears, beavers, spawning salmon in season
  • Nugget Falls cascading down the mountainside near the glacier
  • No food or drink other than water, May through September due to bear activity.

Transportation

  • Bus tour or taxi from downtown Juneau, 12 miles
  • Taxi from Auke Bay Ferry Terminal, 7 miles
  • Taxi from Juneau Airport, 5 miles
  • City bus stops 1 1/4 miles from the visitor center

When to Go

May through September open daily 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM. October through April open Friday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Trails and outdoor areas open all year.

Length of Stay

45 minutes to all day. Day use only, visitor center area closes at night

Lodging

A range of hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Juneau

Getting There

8150 Mendenhall Loop Rd
Juneau, AK 99801
Driving Directions

Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

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