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Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Express Bus

4.9
114 reviews

Excursion Overview

Experience the beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour offers the perfect way to explore the stunning beauty of Juneau. Departing from the Goldbelt Tramway building in downtown Juneau, this narrated tour takes you on a scenic ride to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, offering a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history. As you travel, enjoy insightful commentary on Juneau’s culture, history, and natural wonders.

Upon arrival at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, you’ll have two hours to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier. The Glacier's visitors center features interactive exhibits, educational presentations, and spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding wilderness. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as black bears, porcupines, and mountain goats, and during the spawning season, watch for salmon in the area.

For those who love the outdoors, a variety of hiking trails await. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, popular routes like the West Glacier Trail and Photo Point Trail offer incredible views of the glacier and Mendenhall Lake.

Note for 2026:

Visitor center hours at Mendenhall Glacier may be limited again in 2026 due to ongoing staffing adjustments by the National Forest Service. In 2025, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center building (which includes indoor exhibits and displays) has operated Sunday through Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and remained closed on Saturdays.

While final 2026 hours are not yet confirmed, please be aware that if your tour falls outside of visitor center hours, the surrounding trails, viewpoints, and outdoor areas will still be accessible. (Last updated 10/10/25)

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Roundtrip transportation on the Glacier Express bus from the cruise ship terminal
  • Admission to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center for independent exploration
  • Narration from your expert guide

Requirements:

  • There are no additional requirements for this excursion.

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal)

  • 30 minutes - driving to the Mendenhall Glacier
  • 2 hours - independent exploration of the Mendenhall Glacier
  • 30 minutes - driving back to the cruise ship terminal

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets at the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway, central to the main cruise ship docks in Juneau. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to climb 4 steps into and out of the bus. There is limited space for walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters and wheelchairs. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will enjoy the view of Mendenhall Glacier from a distance as you stand on the shore of Mendenhall Lake. The face of Mendenhall Glacier is 1.5 miles from the Visitors Center Viewpoint. You can get a slightly closer view from Nugget Falls. You can get to the falls by the .75 miles from Nugett Falls trail. From Nugget Falls you will be 1 mile from the face of Mendenhall Glacier.

If you are interested in an excursion that allows you to get closer to Mendenhall Glacier, please consider one of our other glacier hiking tours.

Up to 44 passengers may join the scenic bus tour.

Yes, the indoor restrooms will be open Sunday - Friday from 10am - 5pm, and will be closed on Saturdays. Portable restrooms will be available at all times.

There are no age restrictions for this excursion. Guests under 2 years of age may sit on a parent or guardian's lap.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are permitted on this tour.

Non-alcoholic beverages in closeable containers and snacks are allowed on tour.

As a commercial transport vehicle, car seats are not required and we do not provide them but you are welcome to bring your own.

Yes, there is. We have storage space under the bus for collapsible strollers.

 

Guest Reviews

4.9

114 total

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Arlene C

On Oct 2025

Great excursion, staff was great

Jennifer D

On Oct 2025

The bus driver was entertaining and had a wealth of knowledge. Perfect amount of time to see the glacier and explore the park! Had a great experience!

LETICIA R

On Oct 2025

We had plenty of time to enjoy the glacier and waterfall. The driver was knowledgeable and enjoyable during the drive to Mendenhall.

Jeff J

On Sep 2025

Nice excursion

Larry R

On Sep 2025

The bus was new and clean. The driver was exceptionally nice and personal. We enjoyed the hike out to the falls and glacier. I would recommend it again.

$79.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$79.00

Duration: 3 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3 hours



Adult (12+): $79.00

Child (2-11): $49.00

Infant (under 2): $0.00

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