Best of Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

Explore Juneau’s Iconic Sights in One Day

This $279 tour offers a full taste of Alaska’s scenic beauty and wildlife within approximately 6 to 7 hours. Starting from downtown Juneau, it takes you to the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, guarantees whale sightings aboard a custom-designed jet boat, and ends with a hearty Alaskan salmon bake in a rainforest setting. Designed for those wanting a comprehensive experience, it combines natural wonders with cultural insights and a delicious meal.

With expert guides, live entertainment, and prime landscape views, this tour promises a lively and educational day. Keep in mind, the tour is popular—most bookings happen 58 days in advance—so planning ahead is recommended. It suits visitors eager for a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and authentic Alaskan cuisine.

Key Points

• Includes a visit to Mendenhall Glacier and its visitor center with ranger insights
• Guaranteed whale sightings with a refund if no whales are seen
• All-you-can-eat salmon bake with sides, salads, and dessert
• Transportation provided with hotel pickup and return in downtown Juneau
• Naturalist guides and live entertainment enhance the experience
• Tour duration of 6 to 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day

Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor Center: Up Close to a 12-Mile Ice Wonder

The tour begins with a hosted transfer to Mendenhall Glacier, a striking icy river stretching about 12 miles long. The visitor center offers exhibits explaining the glacier’s formation and ongoing changes, giving context to this iconic Alaskan feature. Guests are encouraged to explore the grounds, take photographs, and watch bears feed on salmon, adding wildlife viewing to the glacier experience.

The one-hour stop provides a chance for personal discovery, with interactive exhibits and scenic vistas. Although the glacier itself is not accessible for hiking, the viewing area offers impressive perspectives of the ice and surrounding landscape, making it ideal for photography and learning.

Guaranteed Whale Watching from Auke Bay with Large Windows and Observation Deck

Next, the group heads to Auke Bay for an approximate 2 hours 45 minutes whale-watching cruise aboard a 48-passenger jet boat. This vessel is specially designed with extra-large windows and an outside observation deck, ensuring optimal wildlife sightings. The boat’s size and design make it a comfortable platform for viewing humpback whales, sea lions, and other marine life.

This tour guarantees whale sightings—if no whales are observed, each adult receives a $100 refund, and children get $50. The naturalist guides on board provide commentary on the whales’ behavior, local geology, and marine ecosystems, enriching the experience. Travelers often witness whales breaching, bubble net feeding, and playful jumps, creating memorable moments.

All-You-Can-Eat Wild Alaskan Salmon Bake in a Rainforest Setting

After the cruise, attention turns to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, set amid lush rainforest scenery. The buffet features grilled wild Alaskan salmon cooked over alder wood fire, complemented by cheechako chicken, Tongass wild-rice pilaf, Chilkoot baked beans, White Pass pasta, fresh salads, and beverages. For dessert, blueberry cake offers a sweet finish.

Guests can enjoy their meal at outdoor tables or relax by a campfire, roasting marshmallows. The setting is scenic, with views of Salmon Creek waterfall nearby, enhancing the alfresco dining experience. The all-you-can-eat format provides generous servings, making it a satisfying end to the outdoor activities.

Witness Tlingit Culture: Cedar Carving and Silver Jewelry Making

Following the meal, visitors can observe a Tlingit Master Carver and his son at work. They craft 10-foot cedar totem poles and silver jewelry, offering insight into Tlingit culture and craftsmanship. This authentic cultural demonstration provides a deeper understanding of Alaska’s indigenous heritage, and visitors have an opportunity to purchase unique art pieces from the gift shop.

This added cultural dimension enhances the tour, providing a meaningful connection to the region’s native traditions beyond natural scenery. It’s a highlight for those interested in indigenous arts and culture or seeking a tangible souvenir.

Practical Details: Logistical Highlights and Group Size

This 6-hour experience begins with hotel pickup in downtown Juneau at the designated meeting point, Mount Roberts Tramway, and concludes with return transportation. The group size is capped at 90 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere and ample attention from guides.

The transportation includes permits and naturalist guidance, with a focus on safety and environmental respect. The tour operates most days with confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and weather permitting—if the weather turns poor, alternatives or full refunds are offered. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and children 13-17 require parental consent if unaccompanied.

The Experience: A Mix of Wildlife, Glaciers, and Culture

What makes this tour stand out is the blend of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and Alaskan cuisine in one day. The combination of guaranteed whale sightings and the glacier visit provides a well-rounded trip, while the cultural demonstration adds depth. Guests often praise knowledgeable guides, live entertainment, and the delicious salmon bake as key highlights.

Timing is managed to give enough attention to each activity, though some reviews suggest the glacier visit can feel rushed if not carefully paced. The whale watching is a particularly popular feature, with many reports of seeing multiple whales, breaching, and playful behaviors. The salmon bake consistently receives positive remarks for its flavor and setting.

Tour Limitations and Considerations

While most reviews are favorable, some criticize the tour for rushing at the glacier or feeling disappointed if they don’t get to hike or explore more extensively. There are also mentions of cancelations without notice and less-than-satisfactory food from some past experiences, but these appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.

The whale watching experience can vary depending on weather and marine activity, but the refund policy offers reassurance. The tour’s physical demands are generally moderate, suitable for most visitors, but travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Juneau Tour

This all-in-one excursion offers a comprehensive snapshot of Juneau’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The glacier encounter, whale sightings, and Alaska salmon bake create a balanced day packed with memorable moments. The highly rated guides and live entertainment contribute significantly to the experience’s enjoyment.

While it’s not perfect—some may find the glacier stop brief or wish for more hiking time overall—the tour provides excellent value for the price and time invested. It’s especially suited for those who want to see wildlife, experience Alaskan cuisine, and enjoy scenic landscapes without multiple bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The buffet meal, transportation, naturalist guide, live entertainment, and permits are included. Whale sighting guarantee is also part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting from hotel pickup and ending back at downtown Juneau.

Is whale watching guaranteed?
Yes, the tour guarantees whale sightings. If no whales are seen, each adult receives a $100 refund and children $50.

What is the setting of the salmon bake?
The scenic rainforest setting features wild Alaskan salmon grilled over alder wood, with side dishes and dessert, and views of Salmon Creek waterfall.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Kids 13-17 need a signed parental consent form if unaccompanied.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Can I purchase souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, souvenirs such as cedar totem poles and silver jewelry are available for purchase from the Tlingit craft artisan.

Is there any physical activity involved?
The tour involves minimal physical activity, mainly walking at the glacier viewing area. More demanding hikes are not part of the itinerary.

How many people typically participate?
The group size is limited to 90 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience for all.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but children 12 and under must be supervised. Those with mobility concerns should check specific needs beforehand.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Alaska Travel Adventures Inc.