Mendenhall Glacier | How to Visit AJ Dock (AJD) is the furthest south (1 mile - 25min walk around the fuel depot) and a shuttle is usually provided to the tramway station for a small fee ($5 all day, 2022). It goes from the middle of town near the docks up the side of a forested hill with a couple of view points down to the harbor before you pop out at a surprisingly large and peaceful forested lake, perfect for swimming! Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. Located In the Mendenhall Mall. But can you walk into Dubrovnik from a cruise ship? This is a great . Its maybe 100 yards from the cruise ship docs. I earn a small commission on products, travel, or blogging services purchased through links on my site. You will set off through an iceberg-dotted lake to the Mendenhall river, and let the excitement begin! Whale watching is very popular in Juneau and visitors can see Humpback whales, Orca whales, Sea Lions, sea otters and other marine animals. The Best hike in every Alaska cruise port - Ordinary Adventures Wildlife like as bears, beavers, porcupines, minks, and eagles may all be seen in the region around the glacier. All routes within the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) are, collectively, a National Scenic Byway. Other nearby attractions include the Alaska State Museum and Whale Park which offer visitors an insight into Alaskan wildlife and culture. It is right across the street from the Mt. Tracy Arm Fjord 4. Learn more: The best things to do in Skagway, Alaska. Across the street is the Alaska State Capitol, which has free tours during the cruise season for anyone with an interest in the states government, politics and history. and then came by this sculpture on our way back to the ship. But gold is not forgotten and those who visit Juneau today still gaze in awe at the remains of the old A-J mine complex on the flanks of Mt. In addition to the waterways of the area, and the lush rain forests on the surrounding mountain sides, there are high mountain lakes and the 1,500 square-mile Juneau ice fields. Its a fantastic statue and really comes alive when the fountain feature turns on near dusk. Contemporary cuisine with a large selection of wines and local tap beer. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. These hikes are guided so you dont get lost or miss the train on the way back. Highly experienced hikers can hire tour guides for longer treks onto the glacier. Chichagof Island, or Shee Kaax, is the fifth-largest island in the U.S. and is famous for having a large population of brown bears. The Ultimate Guide To An Exciting Way Of Life, https://travelyouman.com/author/ponzoblogs/, 7 Things To Do At Robbers Cave State Park In 2023. I love to share the places I love with visitors, newcomers and my fellow locals. Places like the Dipac salmon hatchery are a favorite for Bald Eagles. Learn more: The best things to do in Juneau, Alaska. An onboard naturalist provides a wealth of information about the area and frequently encountered wildlife seen on the trip. After about 2 miles, the Loop road makes a sharp left turn while Glacier Spur Road continues straight toward the mountains. I had hoped to eat at the restaurant and/or see the film about the local. Dock. For the most popular attraction in Juneau, The Mendenhall Glacier, you must arrange a tour, bus, or taxi, as it is 13 miles away. By car or shuttle, it takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the visitor center from the port. A caf, gift shop, and wildlife viewing area are located in the Garden Atrium. Home port: Seattle. Some are easier and some are harder and Ive included their mileage and elevation gain so you can find the best hike that works for you. The adventure begins at the cruise ship dock in downtown Juneau where you board Southeast Alaskas only aerial tramway. The trail can be rough and muddy, but you can also turn around at one of the viewpoints along the way. Learn more: The best things to do in Haines Alaska. When you first arrive in the center of downtown Juneau, stop walking. An exhibit of Russian icons, vestments and old liturgical books can be seen during summer months. The trails continue further up to other destinations, so if you want more hiking, grab a map and keep exploring. Make time to explore the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, which was named in 1892 in honor of Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, a President Harrison appointee who oversaw the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey from 1889 to 1894. Very few travelers have been able to experience the thrill of being this close to an active glacier. Many of the attractions within the city are within walking distance from the cruise port, making it easy for visitors to explore Juneau without having to worry about transportation. Fun fact: Did you know Juneau is not accessible by car? One well-liked route is the three-mile Perseverance Track, which begins in the citys center on Gold Street and travels through one of the valleys where Juneaus gold was discovered before joining another, more challenging trail that ascends Mount Juneau. Too many cruise ships at once honestly but they can support the larger numbers here, I did the Mount Roberts tramway, and I feel like I was scammed out of $46 to do so (discounted price for purchasing through Royal in advance). Roberts Tramway, offering breathtaking views of the city; and many shops and restaurants. In fact, there are no known locations on Earth where one could walk to the lost city of Atlantis. Or, you'll find shuttles available to get . The downtown transit center is only a few blocks from where your ship will be anchored, but the nearest bus stop (at Dredge Lake) is a mile and a half from the glacier. Juneau is charming and amazing. Gold Creek Salmon Bake has been wowing visitors and locals for over 30 years. Most Juneau shore excursions include round-trip transportation from the Juneau port. However there are tours that will take you around the city and stop at some of the main attractions. But the bus does not go directly to the glacier and will require a 1.5 mile walk from the bus stop to the glacier. Nugget Alaskan Outfitters has everything you need for a rainforest adventure. Heading into town, go left on first and then left on Main to go around the airport and across a footbridge. Subway has RV friendly locations open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The only exception is the A.J. The hike goes about 4.5 miles to a waterfall and slowly gains 1000 feet of elevation. Cruising to Hawaii in comfort and style can be an amazing experience. The Walk to Hoonah Difficulty Level: Easy (paved and flat - suitable for anyone with the endurance to walk around 3 miles roundtrip) How do I get there from a cruise ship. This terminal is further from downtown Juneau and will require a 20-minute walk to access the city. The actual land covers more than 3.2 million square miles. Tram cars rise 1,800 feet from the cruise ship dock through the rainforest to the Mountain House at the top. Icy Strait Point is not the best Alaska cruise port for hiking, which is totally ok as there are many wonderful things to do! Strong hikers should attempt the West Glacier Trail, which goes to the Mendenhall Glaciers edge, if they have a full day to devote to the paths. The spectacular Mendenhall Glacier offers visitors a close-up view of a glacier. The path heads north after crossing the Gastineau Channel on the Juneau-Douglas Bridge, delivering you to the very extremity of the island where you may take a 1.5-mile stroll over the well-maintained gravel track on the Rainforest Trail. Take the Goldbelt Tram to the top of Mount Roberts and prepare for an incredible experience. How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau Cruise Port I worked in the cruise industry in Alaska for seven years and lived in two of these ports and these hikes are all ones you can get to easily from the cruise ship dock. Mendenhall has one other experience unique to the glacier and Juneau. With its medieval architecture, stunning coastline, and unique culture, its no wonder why so many people flock to this city every year. You can also get immersed in Alaska Native Culture by visiting the Chilkat Theater and watching the award winning film, Seeing Daylight. The museum also hosts local artists and exhibits on local history and culture. This full-sized bronze humpback whale appears to breach out of an infinity pool. You can pick up a brochure there and explore the grounds whenever you like between 7 am and 5 pm, or you can sign up for a 30-minute guided tour in the lobby every Tuesday and Friday at 1:30 pm and 3 pm through late September. Last Updated on March 20, 2023 If you're a hiker and planning an Alaska cruise, or you just want to find a way to stretch your legs and get away from crowds, this article is for you! Great port but we were the only ship to tender. Get in real trekking mode with a guided walk or climb, or helicopter to a glacier for an exhilarating dogsled ride, one of the best ways to experience authentic Alaska dog sledding in the summer. In Juneau there are about 5 docks available for cruise ships: S. Franklin Street dock, Intermediate Vessel Float, Cruise Ship Terminal, Alaska Steam Ship Dock and A.J. Dubrovnik, Croatia is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Europe. Juneau Cruise Port - What To Know BEFORE You Go | Viator Then, there's the state's most accessible glacier -- Mendenhall, an immense, 12-mile-long river of ice. For those planning hikes on their own, Juneau and Skagway have the easiest hikes to get to from a ship, where there are trails literally right next to the dock or very close. Visitors can pan for gold and garnets, wander among the displays and see the first locomotive brought to Alaska. A comprehensive facility that process their own product and smoke and package it as well. May, June and July are the driest months. The Best Things to Do & See in Juneau, Alaska Located in the heart of downtown for more than 40 years. This a cute little walking trail along the harbor with nice views. For the best Alaska cruise itinerary, click here. Another great option is the hike and float, where you go out to Dyea, hike up a bit of the Chilkoot Trail and then raft down the Taiya River. There are 11 wilderness cabins managed by the USFS and Alaska State Parks. The totem pole on the grounds was carved by Tlingit Indians as a gift for the Governor in 1940. Across from the Capitol is the Court building. It was a short walk from the ship. Takhu is the name given to a life-size bronze sculpture of a breaching humpback whale which is about a 20-minute walk from where the cruise ships dock. We visited the Mendenhall glacier and then came by this sculpture on our way back to the ship. For raw beauty, Juneau is hard to beat. Booked another private tour for whale watching and a shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier, both of which were great. Dock. #2. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. and checking out the many other activities Icy Strait Point has to offer. I worked in the cruise industry in Alaska for seven years and lived in two of these ports and these hikes are all ones you can get to easily from the cruise ship dock. Get ready for an exciting and safe rafting experience. If you wait until the fountains at the bottom of this sculpture go off and then take a photo or selfie, it looks like you are in front of a real whale breaching the water! There are none. Mendenhall Glacier is one of the best attractions for Alaska cruise visitors because it allows them to take an easy hike to reach it. They have nine traditional ferries and all carry passengers and vehicles and have lounges and observation areas. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Last modified September 27, 2019. Best time ever! Not real, but the pictues will make it seem so. Smugglers Cove is a mostly flat 4 mile round trip hike around the point from the hustle and bustle to a peaceful and beautiful view of the upper Lynn Canal. Venture underground to relive Juneaus mining heritage in what was once the worlds largest gold producing mill. A Complete Guide to the Juneau Cruise Port - He Works So I Travel A Guide To Hiking At Every Port On Your Cruise To Alaska . Small little restaurants , good food. Learn more about this 3000 foot climb to a great view in my Ketchikan article below. www.traveljuneau.com, Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is 13 miles from downtown. The Ultimate Guide To An Exciting Way Of Life Learn about the Downsides Of Traveling As A Hobby. There is a Forest Service Visitor Center that features daily interpretive talks and information, video programs, nature walks and trail hikes. 550 South Franklin Street. This famous Alaska Saloon with its swinging doors,sawdust floors, artifacts and antiques attracts thousands of Juneau visitors and locals. It is very close and easy walk from the cruise ship dock. Its no surprise Juneau is a great starting point for any upcoming Alaskan cruise. THE TOP 10 Juneau Shore Tours (w/Prices) It is about 13 miles from downtown Juneau to the Glacier. On 4th St. between Main & Seward St. Annie Kaills was voted Juneaus best art gallery and jewelry store. Whale Watching 3. To make them simpler to steer, two-person sea kayaks often incorporate foot pedals in the back seat that control the rudder. Take Egan Drive out of town past the turnoff to the Juneau International Airport and turn right on Mendenhall Loop Road. Juneau Hotel is next to the Douglas Bridge, the State Capitol, and near downtown Juneau. It is larger by area than both Delaware and Rhode Island. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Youll start going up Franklin Street, turn right on 6th and then left on Basin Road which will take you to the trailhead that is well signed. It is part of the 1500 square mile Juneau Ice field that stretches Into Canada. Bald Eagles and seals frequent the hatchery and provide a fantastic wildlife viewing opportunity. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The most popular one goes from the visitor center to Nugget Falls, which is about one mile away. This is a beautiful sculpture and fountain and we were glad we took the walk in this area to see it! Readers Digest featured the Upside-Down Flower Towers at Glacier Gardens as the Most Interesting Landmark in America in 2012. Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway 7. But can you walk from cruise ship to Skagway? Id only recommend doing this if it happens to be a sunny day. It offers wide, photographic views of Juneau and Gastineau Channel. Juneaus favorite waterfront seafood restaurant with outdoor seating available. From the cruise ship port, you may drive, board a tour bus, or even board a local bus to go to the Recreation Area. Most cruise ships are docked just a few minutes' walk from Downtown Juneau, so consider a visit to the Capitol building or a pit stop at the Alaskan Brewing Co. before or after your excursion. Wish we could have stayed longer. Ketchikan is a beautiful city in Alaska that many travelers turn to when they are taking a cruise. Juneau is the busiest cruise port on the Alaska coast with more than 1 million visitors every year and growing. One site said it was a mile, which. Last updated: [wpautoterms last_updated_date]If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us. Learn about the surrounding Alaskan wilderness and capture memorable shots during your icefield walk. Skagway cruise port. Skagway, Alaska is one of the most popular cruise ports in the world. It was the dream of Juneau's former mayor, Bill Overstreet, after whom the surrounding park was named. Published on 9/24/2018 at 5:43 PM. The whale also spouts water periodically through a fountain. Read: Is Traveling A Hobby? The Juneau-Douglas City Museum focuses on Juneaus mining history and has some excellent displays.There are exhibits on fishing, mining, native history, lifestyle and politics. First, soar by helicopter over Juneau Icefield, and then land on Herbert Glacier to explore the remote landscape by foot. No questions have been asked about this experience, Points of Interest & Landmarks Geologic Formations, Speciality & Gift Shops Points of Interest & Landmarks, Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It certainly seemed like it. There are day boat tours that leave from Juneau and return. It is the biggest city among all of the port and it is packed with shore excursions. Mobile ticket Offered in: English Overview Secure easy and reliable transportation to the Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau with the Blue Bus Glacier Express. canada. When all is said and done, however, it is likely to be Juneaus first impression that will be the most lastinga picture book community nestled along the base of the mountains with winding streets, totem poles, brightly painted store fronts, and more than 32,000 friendly people who wouldnt want to live anywhere else in the world! . On July 4, 1959, the first Alaska state flag was hoisted in front of this structure. Roberts Tramway (right where your ship docks) at least twice/hour and drops you off at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center . Most ports will also have hiking shore excursions if you prefer to have someone else figure out a great hike to enjoy that guarantees youll get back to the ship on time. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. Can You Walk From Cruise Ship to Ketchikan? For a more mellow hike, or a good option for a rainy day, give the Indian River Trail a try. The moderate climb to Father Browns Cross, which is approximately 300 feet higher than the starting point at the Nature Center and offers expansive views of the Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, is one that many people choose. The Chilkat Mountains may be seen in the distance as you go down the beach next. Can You Go to Atlantis From a Cruise Ship? At the Juneau Raptor Center, where damaged birds that cant be returned to the wild after rehabilitation may reside, keep a watch out for bald eagles. Beautiful sculpture, good information on the spinning tiles around the statute, and wonderful view. Related: The best Alaska cruise ports, What to wear for a hike in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Juneau Cruise Port, Alaska: Overview and Guide Many cruise ships to Alaska will include a cruise through Glacier Bay as part of their itinerary. See the map of Skagway cruise port on Google maps. Most of them are close enough for passengers to walk into town. Juneau is a bustling, vibrant city located in the northernmost part of the United States. Glacier Gardens, eight miles north of the terminal and five miles south of the glacier visitor center, is a rainforest adventure in Tongass National Forest. Its only 8 to 12 blocks in any direction the best ways to get around is by tour bus, taxi or on foot. You walk up to this huge whale that almost looks real and has fountains around it. Powered by - Designed with theHueman theme, Ovation of the Seas Balcony Cabin Review and Tour, The Sad Story of a Cruise Ship with Nowhere to Go, 9 Free or Inexpensive Things to do Near Port in Sitka, Hi-Tec Womens Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boots, The Essentials for Traveling in Alaskas Bear Country, Lower Dewey Lake: The Best Hike In Skagway On Your Cruise To Alaska, Ports of Call: Three Sample Itineraries for Your Day in Juneau, Cruise Alaska: Two Easy And Inexpensive Options For Your Day In Anchorage. No matter what you do, you will surely fall in love with all adventures coming on your way. 0:33. Passengers walk off the ship and either start walking toward the city, take a free shuttle to the tourism district or take an excursion bus to their outing.
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