Juneau & Mendenhall Glacier

About

Mendenhall Glacier is one of North America's most accessible glaciers, and it's just a short drive from downtown Juneau. This 13-mile river of ice flows from the massive Juneau Icefield into Mendenhall Lake, creating a scene that feels almost impossibly dramatic. Towering blue ice, cascading waterfalls, and forested trails come together in a setting that welcomes visitors of all abilities.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, operated by the U.S. Forest Service, sits on the shore of the lake with panoramic views of the glacier face. Inside, you'll find exhibits on glaciology, local ecology, and Tlingit cultural history. Large windows frame the glacier, so even on rainy days the views are spectacular. Rangers offer talks and programs throughout the summer season.

Outside, a network of trails fans out from the visitor center. The Photo Point Trail is a short, paved path leading to one of the best glacier viewpoints. Steep Creek, another popular stop, features elevated platforms where visitors can watch salmon spawning and black bears fishing - all from a safe, accessible vantage point. It's one of the most reliable bear-viewing spots in Southeast Alaska.

Juneau itself adds to the experience. The Alaska State Museum, the State Capitol Building, and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum are all ADA-compliant and worth a visit. The Goldbelt Tram whisks passengers up Mount Roberts for alpine views and access to Tlingit cultural exhibits.

For cruise ship visitors, wheelchair-accessible glacier tours are available through several operators, with adapted transportation included. Local outfitter Access Eco-Tours provides a wheelchair-accessible van and adaptive equipment for those wanting a more customized experience.

The glacier has been retreating noticeably in recent decades, making each visit unique. Summer is peak season, with the visitor center typically open from May through September. Temperatures are cool even in summer, so layers are a good idea. Whether you spend an hour at the viewpoint or a full day exploring trails and watching wildlife, Mendenhall Glacier delivers an unforgettable Alaska experience.

Accessibility

Mendenhall Glacier is ADA accessible and designed to welcome visitors with mobility challenges. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center features both a wheelchair ramp and an elevator, ensuring full access to exhibits and the indoor viewing areas. Paved pathways lead from the visitor center to key viewpoints, including the Photo Point Trail.

The Steep Creek bear-viewing area includes wheelchair-accessible elevated platforms that keep visitors safely separated from wildlife while providing clear sightlines. These platforms allow all visitors to enjoy salmon and bear watching without barriers.

For cruise ship passengers who use wheelchairs, dedicated accessible glacier tours are available. These tours provide accessible transportation and are specifically designed for wheelchair users. Booking in advance is recommended, as accessible spots may be limited.

Locally, Access Eco-Tours (907-789-2090) operates a wheelchair-accessible van and carries adaptive equipment for visitors needing additional support. Southeast Alaska Independent Living (S.A.I.L.) also provides assistance for persons with all types of disabilities in the Juneau area.

Juneau's major attractions, including the Alaska State Museum, Juneau-Douglas City Museum, Alaska State Capitol Building, and the Goldbelt Tram, all comply with ADA regulations. Many bus and van tour operators in Juneau can accommodate accessibility needs - contact individual operators for specific details.

Contact the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center for current details on trail conditions, accessible restroom locations, and any seasonal changes to accessible routes or programs.

More accessible places in Alaska

• Mendenhall Glacier Tours (Juneau)
• Alaska SeaLife Center (Seward)
• Alaska Aviation Museum (Anchorage)
• Alaska Botanical Garden (Anchorage)
• Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center (Fairbanks)
• University of Alaska Museum of the North (Fairbanks)