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The Glacier Shuttle is a quick and convenient way to travel to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors’ Center. Shuttle service is provided under a permit with the USDA Forest Service. Buses leave every 30 minutes on most days (check the schedule for times). Pickup and drop off is conveniently located at the cruise ship terminal next to the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. The Glacier Shuttle schedule is set to the arrival and the departure of the cruise ships each day. If you are not on a cruise ship please be sure to call to confirm schedule for the day you are in town. The Visitors’ Center, open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM in the summer months sits on the edge of the Mendenhall Glacier, one of 38 large glaciers that flow off the Juneau Icefield.

The narrated journey lasts approximately 20 minutes each way. The driver introduces passengers to Juneau history, points out famous sites, and gives tips on how to make the most of a visit to the glacier. On the return trip, the driver will answer questions and give recommendations on local shopping or places to drink or dine.

Once you arrive at Juneau’s natural treasure the Mendenhall Glacier, you’re free to explore this wonder from a variety of perspectives like Nugget Creek Falls, Photo Point Trail, which winds along Mendenhall Lake to an unobstructed view of the glacier’s face, or the East Glacier Loop. Check trail times, difficulty and the shuttle departure times with your driver before you go. If you are in good shape, a minimum hike time to the Nugget Falls and back is 45 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes and have fun!

There’s plenty to do outside, but for a closer look at the history and geology of the glacier, your ticket includes entrance to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. You can study the elevated view of the glacier on display as well as interactive geological exhibits explaining glacial formation. 

The glacier is named after Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, a noted scientist, who served on the Alaska Boundary Commission that was responsible for surveying the international boundary between Canada and Alaska. In 1892, this glacier was renamed to honor Mendenhall. One of the founding board members of Ohio State University, Mendenhall never actually visited Alaska, however it was his techniques that ended a long-standing dispute over the actual boundaries of the country.

Canada is not far away. A short helicopter flight over the mountains will take you into British Columbia, just 40 or so miles away. The ice field is the reason that Juneau has no roads running in or out.

For more information call (907) 723-9209 or book online.

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