Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Although we are the original whale-watching company in Juneau (operating since 1994), we are still small and family-owned and operated! We want you to feel like part of the family, and we pride ourselves on prioritizing local hires in order to give back to our community and give you the best possible tour experience. We want our guides to love Juneau as much as you do!
This tour offers an additional hour at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. This gives you an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours to look at salmon, visit the Visitor's Center, and make the hike to Nugget Falls!
Our fleet consists of only mammal-friendly jet boats, and the small size and intimate setting will make you feel right at home with the whales.
We pride ourselves on our quick transfers between vehicles! We don't want you to wait any longer than you absolutely have to!
Available options
Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall and Whale Watching Tour
What's included
Binoculars are provided
English Guide
We include a generous snack bag, along with hot chocolate and coffee.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Drive through the city of Juneau on a guided bus ride.
2
Stop 2
Take an easy hike out to Nugget Falls to really immerse yourself in our rainforest! It takes most people about 45 minutes round trip, but if you are a slower hiker, or you want to stop and take pictures, this is the tour for you!
3
Stop 3
Stop by the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors center to learn more about the stunning glacier!
4
Stop 4
Hop on one of our mammal friendly jet boats to go find some whales! Leaving from Auke Bay Harbor, our expirienced captains will use their local knowledge to show you the most exciting whales out there!
What's not included
Audio and written guides are not included. Just in person!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
21 reviews
5★
18
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
18 reviews
5★
16
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Please meet us outside the Goldbelt Tram building, on the street side. Look for a Dolphin representative with a blue sign with yellow letters.
About Juneau
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a unique blend of rugged wilderness and vibrant city life. Nestled between the Gastineau Channel and towering mountains, it offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant outdoor adventures. As the only U.S. state capital accessible only by boat or plane, Juneau provides a sense of remoteness and untouched wilderness that is truly unparalleled.
Top Attractions
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau's most iconic natural attractions. This massive river of ice is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (Visitor Center has a small fee for some exhibits)
Juneau-Douglas City Museum
The Juneau-Douglas City Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and culture of Juneau and the surrounding region. Housed in a historic building, the museum features exhibits on the Gold Rush, Native Alaskan heritage, and the city's development.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Tracy Arm Fjord
Tracy Arm Fjord is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 70 miles south of Juneau. This stunning fjord is home to towering waterfalls, glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife, including seals, bears, and bald eagles.
Nature
Full day
Varies by tour operator (typically $150-$250 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Alaskan King Crab
A delicacy in Alaska, Alaskan King Crab is known for its sweet and tender meat. It is typically steamed or boiled and served with butter or in crab dishes like crab legs or crab cakes.
Dinner
Gluten-free, but check for any allergens in sauces or accompaniments.
Salmon
Alaskan salmon is renowned for its freshness and flavor. It can be grilled, baked, or smoked and is often served with local sides like roasted vegetables or wild rice.
Dinner
Gluten-free, but check for any allergens in sauces or accompaniments.
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, baking powder, and water, often cooked over an open fire. It can be sweet or savory and is a staple in Alaskan cuisine.
Snack
Vegetarian, but may contain gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Wildlife viewing
Scenic boat tours
Visiting museums and cultural attractions
Enjoying local cuisine and shopping
Visiting the Juneau-Douglas City Museum
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Juneau, offering the warmest weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The long daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun,' provide ample time for exploration. Wildlife is active, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.
10°C to 18°C
50°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Juneau is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed and reputable tour operators for outdoor activities and adventures.
- • Let someone know your plans and expected return time when exploring the wilderness or hiking in remote areas.
Getting there
By air
- Juneau International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
Getting around
Public transport
The Juneau Transit System offers affordable and convenient bus service throughout the city. Buses are well-maintained and frequent, making it easy to get around without a car.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Juneau Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Juneau
West Juneau
North Douglas
Day trips
Tracy Arm Fjord
113 km (70 miles) • Full day
Tracy Arm Fjord is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 70 miles south of Juneau. This stunning fjord is home to towering waterfalls, glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife, including seals, bears, and bald eagles.
Glacier Bay National Park
160 km (100 miles) • Full day
Glacier Bay National Park is a stunning natural wonder located about 100 miles west of Juneau. The park is home to numerous glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, including whales, bears, and bald eagles.
Admiralty Island National Monument
48 km (30 miles) • Full day
Admiralty Island National Monument is a stunning natural wonder located about 30 miles south of Juneau. The island is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world, as well as a variety of other wildlife, including bears, seals, and whales.
Festivals
Alaska Folk Festival • April
Juneau Jazz & Classics Music Festival • June
Juneau WhaleFest • November
Pro tips
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing, as weather in Juneau can be unpredictable and change rapidly.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during the summer tourist season, as they can fill up quickly.
- Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing and photography, as Juneau is home to a variety of unique and majestic animals.
- Try local Alaskan cuisine, including fresh seafood, game, and unique dishes like bannock and akutaq.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to learn about the rich history and heritage of Juneau and the surrounding region.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
