Canoe Mendenhall Lake for close-up views of Mendenhall Glacier
4 hours
Up to 10 people
Transport, gear, snacks
Paddle a glacier-fed lake in a small group as your guide leads you through Tongass National Forest toward Mendenhall Glacier. Ride narrated roundtrip transportation from the cruise ship terminal and take a quick paddle lesson before you launch.
Ages 12+ with a minimum weight of 90 lbs and maximum weight of 240 lbs. Full use of limbs is required for up to 2 hours of canoeing, and a signed liability waiver is required. Not recommended for guests with back, shoulder, or hip problems; pregnant guests are not permitted.
Customers will receive a full refund with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.
Dress in warm, non-cotton layers (wool or synthetic works best) and bring warm socks. If it’s cooler, bring a hat and gloves or mittens; if it’s sunny, bring sunglasses. Non-insulated rain gear is provided, but the glacier area can feel much colder than nearby spots.
No. Your guide gives you a quick paddle lesson before you launch.
You must be at least 12 years old, weigh between 90 and 240 lbs, have full use of your limbs for up to 2 hours of canoeing, and sign a liability waiver. This tour is not recommended if you have back, shoulder, or hip problems, and pregnant guests are not permitted.
GoldBelt Tram 490 S. Franklin St.
With a perfect track record across hundreds of reviews, this Mendenhall Glacier canoe tour consistently delivers what guests call a "lifetime experience." The adventure combines paddling across Mendenhall Lake with up-close glacier views and short hikes to scenic vantage points. Guides come prepared for Alaska's unpredictable weather, providing quality rain gear and boots so conditions never dampen the experience. The real standout here is the guide team. Names like Issy, Mason, Rod, Jonathan, Luke, and Jordan come up repeatedly, with guests praising their blend of expertise and personality. They're certified first responders (which adds a layer of security), but more importantly, they know how to balance safety briefings and geological facts with humor and genuine enthusiasm. Several reviewers mention feeling like their guides could have happily stayed out exploring for hours longer, which speaks volumes about their passion for the area. The operation runs smoothly from meetup through gear distribution to the actual paddle, making this a top recommendation for anyone physically capable of canoeing.
This excursion was the BEST part of my trip to Alaska in May. Meg and Issy were our tour guides. They both were incredibly nice, funny and very knowledgeable. Being able to get this close to the glacier was fantastic. The views were simply breathtaking. Thank you so much for an amazing excursion. A time was had!
Kimberly B.
October 15, 2025
This excursion was the BEST part of my trip to Alaska in May. Meg and Issy were our tour guides. They both were incredibly nice, funny and very knowledgeable. Being able to get this close to the glacier was fantastic. The views were simply breathtaking. Thank you so much for an amazing excursion. A time was had!
Kimberly B.
October 15, 2025