What to do at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a hub for exploring Juneau’s wildlife and nature via scenic walking trails, endless information from knowledgeable U.S. Forest Service Rangers, and stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier itself. Located about 30 minutes from downtown Juneau, this area is not be missed on a visit to Alaska’s state capital.

During the Summer (May 1st - September 25th) the Visitor Center is open Sunday to Friday from 10a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed on Saturdays.  If you arrive independently, there are several places to purchase a daily pass to explore the entire area. Guests 16 years and older will be required to pay a day-use fee; youth 15 and under are free. Park fees are included if you book an excursion like the  Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Express Bus or  Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center.

Learn from the Experts: U.S. Forest Service Rangers located around the facility have lots of information to share with everyone.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is accessible to everyone, making it a great place to learn a lot! The facility itself features state-of-the-art exhibits, a 15-minute film showcasing the interplay between the Tongass National Forest and the surrounding glaciers, and a Discovery Southeast bookstore for visitors to explore.

U.S. Forest Service Rangers are stationed around the area to help visitors get the most out of their experience. They are extremely knowledgeable and can offer a lot of insight into the landscape around. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions, big or small; they’re happy to help with it all!

Explore the Hiking Trails: There are several short walks and hikes around the Mendenhall Glacier.

Photo Point Trail: This trail is about ⅓ mile round-trip and is highly accessible, as it is paved. It’s a short walk to get to the turnaround point where you’ll have magnificent views of the Mendenhall Glacier located across the Mendenhall Lake. Keep an eye out for small icebergs floating in the lake!

Nugget Falls Trail: Is it worth it? Yes! This 2-mile round-trip trail will take you out to the gushing Nugget Falls. While the trail is rated moderately difficult due to its length and gravel surface, it takes about an hour round-trip. We recommend the  Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Express Bus if you’d like to hike to Nugget Falls during your visit. Please note that the glacier view is obstructed at Nugget Falls.

Trail of Time: This trail takes you back in time as you explore vegetation and landscapes that vary according to how long ago the glacier originally retreated from the area. Just under a mile for the entire loop, this trail will take you through time in about 30 minutes.

Steep Creek Trail: With raised boardwalks and paved trails, this one is great for the entire family. It’s also the best trail to observe wildlife, including bears, in the area! Because of the trail's proximity to salmon running grounds, bears are often seen. This ¼ mile trail is a quick adventure that you don’t want to miss!

East Glacier Trail: This 3.5-mile loop is perfect for visitors looking for adventure and with a decent amount of time to explore. The loop will take the average visitor about 2.5 hours to complete, but will offer guests an escape from the crowds and different views of the Mendenhall Glacier. We recommend using bug spray as the dense forest can often be full of mosquitoes!

FAQ Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center

How do I get to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center?

If you have your own transportation, such as a rental car, you’re welcome to drive there. There is plenty of public parking. There is no city bus service to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor’s Center. The closest bus stop is 1.5 miles from the Visitors Center. With taxis costing between to each way, plus park fees. For many travelers, the most convenient and affordable way to reach the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center is the Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Express Bus.

Are there restrooms at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center?

Yes, there are restrooms inside the visitors' center, and portable restrooms around the grounds.

How close is the Mendenhall Glacier to the Visitors Center?

The Mendenhall Glacier is situated about 1.5 miles from the Visitors Center. The best view of the glacier is from the area surrounding the visitor’s center.