Mendenhall Glacier Trek

Day Trip, Group Tour
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For the hearty and experienced hiker, join us for the hike to the perfect panoramic viewpoint for the glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier Trek

Get ready for an unforgettable 6 to 7-mile hiking adventure through the raw beauty of Alaska on the Mendenhall Glacier Wilderness Guide Hike. Your experience begins with a guided journey through the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, where towering Sitka spruce and hemlock trees create a serene canopy overhead.

With an experienced guide leading the way, you'll follow a trail that winds past peaceful beaver ponds and climbs over rugged bedrock outcrops, where the path gradually disappears into untamed wilderness. The hike includes approximately 800 feet of elevation gain, over rocky, uneven, and sometimes slippery terrain, making it best suited for adventurous travelers with good balance and sure footing.

As you reach the final ridge, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Glacier, with its jagged ice formations, deep blue crevasses, and cascading icefall. Enjoy a break to take in the surrounding vistas, which include the mighty Nugget Falls and majestic mountain peaks. Snacks are provided while you soak in this unforgettable natural setting and snap some incredible photos.

This challenging and rewarding hike offers an up-close look at Alaska's stunning wilderness and the powerful beauty of its iconic glacier, a journey that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Please Note: Due to significant glacial recession, this tour no longer includes access onto the glacier ice. For safety reasons, all trekking takes place near the glacier, not on the ice itself.

 
Tour Type
Group
 
Group Size
Small
 
Activity Type(s)
Hiking
 
Tour Duration
6 Hours
 
Activity Level
Difficult
 
Tour Leaves From
An approximate 5 to 10-minute walk is required to reach your departure location depending on where your ship is docked. Full details will be provided in your electronic ticket upon confirmation.
 
Food/Beverage Provided
A hearty, healthy snack and bottled water are included.
 
Special Instructions
As you will be visiting a river of ice, dress in layers of good coating. Sunglasses are highly recommended. Gloves and hats are recommended. Comfortable hiking pants are recommended. Sensible hiking shoes or boots, not sneakers, are recommended. It's important to have sturdy footwear that provides good ankle support for hiking on rocky terrain. Guests showing up with inadequate footwear will be denied participation and will not be entitled to a refund.
 
Restrictions
Guests must be physically fit, and able to climb over rocks and slippery surfaces. Guests must have no major mobility issues. Guests must disclose information regarding the history of pertinent medical conditions, such as allergies or any type of restriction or limitation, that may introduce a challenge on this trip. Children must be at least 10 years of age, able to hike 9 miles roundtrip on their own, and accompanied by an adult. Due to the inherent risks involved, parents may not carry their infants or toddlers. Women at any stage of pregnancy may not participate in this trek. Sensible hiking shoes or boots, not sneakers, are required. We strongly recommend you do not book another tour within an hour after this tour concludes. All participants must sign a waiver form at the start of the trip.
Interests
  • Hiking and Trekking
Location Overview
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From Shore Excursions Group
From Shore Excursions Group
Prices are per-person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.