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Mendenhall Glacier Paddle & Trek
Strenuous Activity
Includes snack
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. After making landfall at the glacier beach, trade paddles for trekking poles and hike over the rocky terrain carved by the glacier. Get an up close and intimate perspective of the glacier from the edge, while learning about glacier dynamics and the breathtaking and ever-changing ice feautes.
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 the ice fall at the toe of the glacier appear 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
The Tongass National Forest and 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."
Points of interest
Mendenhall Glacier
Outdoor Adventures
Schedule
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. The Mendenhall Glacier is in a state of constant change and is receeding daily. You will explore the glacier's edge safely from the bedrock. You will not step onto the glacier, and proximity to it depends on glacial recession and fluctuating lake levels. The amount of time at the edge of the glacier is dependent on the group's pace and the weather conditions.
Provided: Raingear, rubber boots, life jacket, paddle mitts, trekking poles, dry bag, backpack
Snack: Trail mix, 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.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Strenuous Activity
Includes snack
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. After making landfall at the glacier beach, trade paddles for trekking poles and hike over the rocky terrain carved by the glacier. Get an up close and intimate perspective of the glacier from the edge, while learning about glacier dynamics and the breathtaking and ever-changing ice feautes.
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 the ice fall at the toe of the glacier appear 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
The Tongass National Forest and 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."
Points of interest
Mendenhall Glacier
Outdoor Adventures
Schedule
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. The Mendenhall Glacier is in a state of constant change and is receeding daily. You will explore the glacier's edge safely from the bedrock. You will not step onto the glacier, and proximity to it depends on glacial recession and fluctuating lake levels. The amount of time at the edge of the glacier is dependent on the group's pace and the weather conditions.
Provided: Raingear, rubber boots, life jacket, paddle mitts, trekking poles, dry bag, backpack
Snack: Trail mix, 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.