Alaska Glaciers

Written by Viator, August 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Tip - What to See & Do, Walking/Hiking, Glacier

The vast expanse of the largest state in the Union offers sightseeing on a truly impressive scale. Did you know that half of the world’s glaciers are in Alaska? And the good news is you don’t have to go all the way to the state’s wild Arctic north to see these amazing natural wonders; a day trip or an even shorter excursion from Juneau or Anchorage will bring you face-to-face with these icy giants.

The state capital Juneau, in its dramatic setting between the Gastineau Channel and soaring Mount Juneau, is an ideal base for outdoor adventure. Lace up those boots, hike through the forest and get ready for Mendenhall, where an expert instructor will teach you how to tackle this truly impressive glacier, with its eerie blue ice caves and challenging climbing opportunities. And if you really want to turn this into a grand encounter with nature, combine your trek with some whale-watching on Auke Bay.

Meanwhile, if you head southwest out of the state’s largest city, Anchorage, you’ll come to Portage Lake. Hop on a cruise which threads through icebergs dotted about the lake before coming to Portage Glacier, where (from a safe distance) you’ll witness the breathtaking sight of ice breaking off into the waters. Bookend your cruise with a tour of the surrounding countryside along scenic Seward Highway for the best of the area’s land and water sights, with a stop at Alyeska Ski Resort on the way back into town. But to really get the most out of your Anchorage stay, combine all of the above with a tour of the city, including a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center.

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All Alaska Glaciers Reviews

Reply by Viator, June 2012
Doing what: Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb

Unbelievable! My wife and I took a 7 day Inside Passage cruise and this was by far the best experience of our trip. Climbing down into a cave under the Mendenhall glacier was something unexpected and was the best part of the trek. The hike to and from the glacier is no joke so be prepared for a very challenging day. I have climbed many mountains in Colorado and this was as difficult as any of the climbs I have done.

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Reply by Viator, September 2011
Doing what: Juneau Whale Watching Adventure and Mendenhall Glacier Tour

we loved this we saw only one humpback but quit a few Orcas inlcuding a mom and baby.The naturalsit on board was very informative. She was just as excited to see the whales as us. Highly recommend this excursion.

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Reply by Viator, August 2011
Doing what: Juneau Whale Watching Adventure and Mendenhall Glacier Tour

OUR RATING WOULD BE 5 STARS.
WE HAD A GREAT TIME AND SAW LOTS OF
WHALES.

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