Just a short drive from downtown Juneau, Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area draws visitors to its dramatic blue ice caves, dense forest trails, and glacier-fed landscapes. Part of the massive Juneau Icefield, the Mendenhall Glacier stretches 13 miles toward sea level and remains one of Southeast Alaska’s most iconic natural wonders.
Recommended For
Adventurers & Hikers: Traverse unmarked trails and experience the surreal beauty of ice caves up close.
Photographers: Capture the electric blue of glacial ice and panoramic mountain views.
Nature Enthusiasts: Explore the Tongass National Forest and witness the glacier’s evolution in real time.
What to Expect
- Location: Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, Juneau, Alaska
- Setting: A dynamic glacial environment inside the Tongass National Forest
- Highlight: The breathtaking and ever-changing Mendenhall Ice Caves
- Access: Requires extensive hiking via rugged and often unmarked routes
Mendenhall Ice Caves
- Formation: Created by melting water carving tunnels through glacial ice
- Color: Vivid blue tones caused by compressed ice absorbing all colors but blue
- Unpredictability: Constantly changing—new caves form and collapse due to glacier retreat
- Safety Note: Visiting is dangerous—expect unstable footing, dripping water, and falling rock
Visitor Guidance
- Guides: Hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation
- Time Commitment: Trips can take up to 8 hours round-trip depending on trail conditions
- Trail Conditions: Largely unmaintained and unmarked; navigation skills are essential
- Gear Tips: Bring waterproof boots, layered clothing, quick-dry materials, and plenty of water
- Access Not Guaranteed: Ice caves may be inaccessible due to conditions—check before planning your hike
West Glacier Trail
- Trail Start: Begins in a forested area within the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area
- Difficulty: Starts level but becomes steep, slick, and uneven with roots and rocks
- Trail Features: Includes switchbacks, stairs, bridges, and a boulder with a knotted rope for climbing
- Navigation Aids: Rock cairns help mark the path in tricky areas
- Trail End: Ends near exposed rock and shrubbery with views of the glacier
- Glacier Access: A primitive or self-made route leads from trail’s end to the glacier’s summit
Former Ice Cave Entrance
- Route: From the glacier’s summit, walk carefully over ice and loose rocks north to a ravine
- Note: This area was once a known entrance but may no longer be accessible
Visitor Tips
- Plan Ahead: Check conditions with the U.S. Forest Service before you go
- Stay Safe: Glacier travel is dangerous—do not go alone or without proper experience
- Weather: Conditions change quickly—pack accordingly and monitor forecasts
Contact & Map
Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area
Managed by the Tongass National Forest
U.S. Forest Service – Tongass
Learn about the Juneau Icefield
Map:
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