Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb

Join an Alaskan wilderness adventure as you are introduced to glacier trekking and ice climbing on Mendenhall Glacier!

Hike through rainforest, over rocky terrain and along the lake's edge of Mendenhall Glacier on a 2.5 mile (4km) trail, reaching an elevation of approximately 300 - 500 feet (90-150 meters). After reaching the glacier, you will be outfitted in high quality trekking gear for your ice climbing adventure.

Professional expert guides will provide training to ensure a safe and fun adventure on Mendenhall Glacier, including how to use an ice axe and the basic techniques for climbing an ice wall. There is time to practice on a beginner's slope before tackling the main attraction. Enjoy close-up views of ice caves, streams, crevasses and other unique glacial formations on a once in a lifetime adventure!

The Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb caters to all abilities, however, you must be capable of hiking for up to 5 hours, covering about 6 miles (9.5km) in total. Due to the various fitness levels and weather on this trip, please allow 7 hours roundtrip.

The first mile of the trail is well maintained and goes through forests with a few switchbacks. The second half of the trail is off the beaten path and requires hiking on bedrock with some rock scrambling on steep sections. It's important to have sturdy shoes/boots that provide good ankle support while hiking on the rocky terrain. For a relatively fit group, it takes about 2 hours to hike to the glacier. The elevation gain is about 300 ft (90 meters).

Circumstances such as poor weather, inadequate footwear or a slow pace to the glacier may limit or prevent the opportunity to try ice climbing.

Schedule details

Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb

Departure Dates:

Seasonal
May 1 to September 27, 2009
Daily

Departure Point:

Tour departs from Juneau hotels or the Mt. Roberts Tramway (5 minutes from the cruise ship terminal)

Departure Time:

• 9:00am
• 12:30pm

Return Details:

Additional information

Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb

Inclusions:

• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Hearty snack/bottled water
• Mountaineering gear, backpack, rain jacket and pants
• Roundtrip transportation from designated meeting point

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)

Additional Information:

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
• This small group adventure has a minimum of 2 and maximum of 12 participants
• Minimum age is 12 years
• Adult pricing applies to all travelers

What to Bring:

• Hiking boots with with good stability and traction
• Boots
• Comfortable hiking pants
• Warm sweater or fleece pullover
• Warm hat
• Fleece gloves
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Adult pricing applies to all travelers

Terms and Conditions:

If you cancel at least 8 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 per cent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 per cent cancellation fee.

Local Operator Information:

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.