Mendenhall Glacier Paddle & Trek

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT
Mendenhall Glacier and Mendenhall Lake
The thirteen-mile-long river of ice, which ends on the far side of Mendenhall Lake, is one of Alaska's shining gems. Gaze upon its otherworldly beauty with an unforgettable adventure that begins with a guided canoe paddle. After your orientation and safety briefing, paddle past glowing blue icebergs of all shapes and sizes. When you reach the glacier, you'll explore on foot this awe-inspiring glacial edge landscape that may include ice caves, crevasses, melt water streams, and conduits.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
The mystical blue hues of Mendenhall Glacier is a photo-worthy sight. Created by a unique crystalline structure that absorbs and reflects light, the blue color fades as the ice is exposed to air and the crystalline structure breaks down. Sometimes the glacial ice inside crevasses and caves appears almost turquoise.

SNACK
A snack of assorted granola bars, nuts, trail mix, cheese and bottled water will help power you through the day.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Cliffs adorned with nests of Arctic terns, giant waterfalls, and wildlife such as mountain goats, black bears, porcupines, river otters, beavers, eagles, and loons all call this icy wilderness their home.

At the end of the day, you'll step inside your canoe and paddle back across the breathtaking lake to your van waiting at the shore. As you reflect on your adventure, you'll understand why Mendenhall Glacier is featured in National Geographic's "Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips."

Special Notes:

Minimum age is 12 years, maximum height is 6'8" and weight is 250 lbs. Every participant must be in good enough condition and capable of paddling for up to 5 to 6 miles roundtrip and hiking on uneven terrain up to 2 miles roundtrip. Pregnant guests are not permitted due to the tour's inherent risks. It is recommended to bring gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and layered non-cotton clothing. Due to the constantly changing nature of the Mendenhall Glacier, a specific amount of time along the glacier's edge and visiting specific features such as ice caves, moulins, etc. cannot be guaranteed. Guides will assess the hazards on the day of the trip to determine if a particular area is safe to trek upon or enter.

Provided: Raingear, rubber boots, life jacket, paddle mitts, trekking poles, helmet, backpack

Snack: Carrots, hummus, cheese, granola bar, nuts, bottled water

Liability waiver is required to be signed in the presence of the tour operator.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.