Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau
Juneau, United States

Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour

Outty Ranking 44 4.2 · 53 traveler reviews3.5 hoursFrom $279

Pick your date

Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.

September 2026

SMTWTFS

Loading live availability

Who is going?

Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.

From, per person$279
View availability on Viator

Non-refundable booking. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.

Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

44/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.2/5

Based on 53 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour worth booking?

Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour is a 3.5-hour experience in Juneau, United States, from $279 per person. It scores 44 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 53 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
44 / 100
Rating
4.2/5 (53)
Duration
3.5 hours
From
$279 per person

Be one of the lucky few to experience the majestic Mendenhall Glacier up close, as you travel by kayak, under a very limited U.S. Forest Service permit. Journey across Mendenhall Lake in your stable two-person kayak, nav

What you get

    About this experience

    Be one of the lucky few to experience the majestic Mendenhall Glacier up close, as you travel by kayak, under a very limited U.S. Forest Service permit. Journey across Mendenhall Lake in your stable two-person kayak, navigating the iceberg studded pristine water that is truly one of the jewels of the Tongass National Forest. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the breathtaking nature surrounding you, pointing out native wildlife and fascinating you with the history and ecology of the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier. Venture within a safe distance of the massive, awe-inspiring face of the glacier and skirt the base of the beautiful and powerful Nugget Falls. After paddling back across the lake and taking in the last views of this extraordinary glacier, refuel with a snack of Alaskan-style fare and reminisce about the experience that is sure to be a highlight of your Alaska vacation.

    What's included

    Included

    • Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee
    • Full rain gear included (pants/jacket/boots)
    • Snacks
    • Permits
    • Transportation

    Not included

    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Be one of the lucky few to experience the majestic Mendenhall Glacier up close, as you travel by kayak, under a very limited U.S. Forest Service permit. Upon arrival at Mendenhall Lake, your experienced, friendly guide will help outfit you with life jackets and rain gear before instructing you on proper kayaking techniques. Then, you will board the two-person kayaks with a traveling companion or a new friend and set off on your Alaskan adventure. Journey across Mendenhall Lake in your stable two-person kayak, navigating the iceberg studded pristine water that is truly one of the jewels of the Tongass National Forest. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the breathtaking nature surrounding you, pointing out native wildlife and fascinating you with the history and ecology of the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier. Venture within a safe distance of the massive, awe-inspiring face of the glacier and skirt the base of the beautiful and powerful Nugget Falls. After paddling back across the lake and taking in the last views of this extraordinary glacier, refuel with a snack of Alaskan-style fare and reminisce about the experience that is sure to be a highlight of your Alaska vacation. Never paddled before? Don’t worry; your experienced guide will group you into similar abilities so you can travel at a comfortable pace while ensuring that your adventure is safe and enjoyable. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the Mendenhall Glacier as only a select few lucky adventurers can.

      120 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Juneau

    JUNEAU MEETING PLACE: On the sidewalk, under the cables of the Mt. Roberts Tram -15 minutes prior to tour departure. Once at the meeting area, look for the Alaska Travel Adventures tour representative. They will be wearing a red jacket/shirt, with the Caribou logo.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    JUNEAU MEETING PLACE: On the sidewalk, under the cables of the Mt. Roberts Tram -15 minutes prior to tour departure. Once at the meeting area, look for the Alaska Travel Adventures tour representative. They will be wearing a red jacket/shirt, with the Caribou logo.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Alaska Travel Adventures Inc.

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • Gloves and an extra pair of socks are recommended
    • Minimum weight: 40lbs
    • Maximum weight: Subject to waist size required to fit in the kayak cockpit. Cockpits are 16.5" X 10"
    • Guests taller than 6' 3" will not be able to steer with foot pedals and will have to steer with the oar instead. Guests can still participate, it is just a guideline to take note of.
    • Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children 13 to 17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate without a parent or guardian.

    Photos

    Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau, photo 2In SyncMendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau, photo 4Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau, photo 5Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau, photo 6Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour in Juneau, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 53 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    53 verified traveler reviews for Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    36
    4 star
    5
    3 star
    4
    2 star
    4
    1 star
    4
    Sort
    M7704SKangelap · July 2026

    Kayak Glacier lake

    Had an amazing time from start to finish. Our driver (already forgot her name but she's from Waco Texas and on her way to being a lawyer) was knowledgeable, funny, and helpful. Our kayak guide Gwen was also helpful, informative and kind. I highly recommend this company and tour!

    via Tripadvisor

    Melissa M · July 2026

    MUST DO!

    We were picked up from the cruise ship terminal and brought about half an hour away into the Tongass National Forest to kayak on a quieter body of water backing up against the glacier. The scenery was incredible, including the glacier, a waterfall, and the beautiful peaks surrounding the lake. Our guide Gwen was lovely and kept us entertained with a mixture of conversation and information about the area. Thank you Gwen!!!! <3 This was a highlight of our Alaskan cruise and I wholeheartedly recommend!

    via Tripadvisor

    Anthony_W · October 2025

    Great time with Edwin

    First of all, this is a physically demanding experience. If you have never kayaked or canoed before, it might not be a fun time. That being said, ATA made our time on the lake fantastic. Rain gear and all equipment was provided. Kayaks were in great shape. Our guide, Edwin, did an awesome job telling us stories of the area and about his life in general (very funny 10/10). He also took some awesome pictures for us while out on the water. We do wish the experience were a little longer so we could relax and enjoy the amazing scenery more. Overall though, a fantastic trip!

    via Viator

    angie_w · September 2025

    Awesome experience

    The best tour we did on our cruise. What an amazing experience. How many people can say they've been to the Mendenhall Glacier. You can only get there by kayak/canoe or plane. That's it. But let me make one point, this is about a 5 mile tour in a tandem kayak. It was tiring heading back as you were with the wind. We had an absolute beautiful day, a little cool because you are in glacier water, but the sun was shining that day at about 55 - 60 degrees. Awesome experience, but be prepared to work.

    via Viator

    mvl604 · September 2025

    Lovely tour

    Lovely kayaking tour. We especially enjoyed the company and knowledge of our experienced guide, Joseph. -1 point for not providing a wireless audio system for the guide to use.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    19
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 44

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)54
    Review evidence (18% weight)45
    Booking momentum (14% weight)38
    Value for money (12% weight)49
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Juneau.

    How much does Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $279 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Juneau usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Juneau is not rushed.

    Is Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 44 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 53 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Juneau, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour?

    +

    Around 19 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Juneau can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Juneau and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Juneau within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Juneau?

    +

    Juneau runs Mendenhall Glacier trips, whale watching in Auke Bay, helicopter glacier landings with dog sledding, and rainforest hikes. Most tours are timed to cruise ship windows, so we weight clear duration and pickup detail. On Outty we rank every Juneau experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching, Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier, Whales and Wilderness Exploration. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Juneau?

    +

    May to September, peaking for humpbacks in June and July. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Juneau?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour.

    Pick your date