Tour
Be among the select few, under a limited USFS permit, to kayak near the face of the majestic Mendenhall Glacier.
Journey across Mendenhall Lake in your stable kayak, navigating the iceberg-studded pristine water that is truly one of the jewels of the Tongass National Forest.
Tour
Your informative driver will whisk you from the cruise ship docks out to beautiful Mendenhall Lake. Upon arrival at Mendenhall Lake, your experienced, friendly guide will help you with life jackets and rain gear before teaching you kayaking techniques. Then you will board the two-person kayaks and set off on your Alaskan adventure.
Your knowledgeable guide will explain the breathtaking nature surrounding you, pointing out native wildlife and fascinating you with the history and ecology of the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier.
Venture within a safe distance of the massive, awe-inspiring face of the glacier and skirt the base of the beautiful and powerful Nugget Falls. After paddling back across the lake and taking in the last views of this extraordinary glacier, refuel with a snack of Alaskan-style fare and reminisce about the experience that is sure to be a highlight of your Alaska vacation.
Never paddled before? Don’t worry! Your experienced guide will group you into like abilities so that you can travel at a comfortable pace, while ensuring that your adventure is safe and enjoyable.
INCLUDED: Round trip transfer from dock; rain-gear and life jackets; snack consisting of reindeer sausage, cheese, crackers, salmon spread and water. Complimentary souvenir button. T-shirts and hats are available for purchase.
RESTRICTIONS: We recommend guests to wear warm comfortable layers and bring gloves and an extra pair of socks. No prior experience necessary. Children must weigh at least 40 pounds to fit into required life jackets. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Children ages 13-17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate in the absence of a parent or guardian. Maximum weight limits including gear are 300lbs (660kg) for single kayaks and 600lbs (1320kg) for double kayaks. People taller than 6’2″ (198cm) have a hard time operating the rudder because the pedals only adjust to a certain maximum distance. However, people as tall as 6’6″ have been able to paddle in our kayaks.
CANCELLATION: Any changes or cancellations made more than 14 days before the tour departure will not be charged a fee and will receive a full refund. Any cancellations within 14 days of the tour departure will be non-refundable. Any cancellations due to weather or late arrival of your cruise ship will result in a full refund.
WHAT TO WEAR: Due to the possibility of inclement weather, it is recommended that you wear warm, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket and comfortable slip-proof shoes.
MEETING INSTRUCTIONS: All Mendenhall Lake Kayak trips begin at the Mt. Roberts Tramway, at the cruise ship docks. Try to meet 15 minutes before departure time.