Mendenhall Lake is a must-visit destination in Alaska’s Inside Passage Region. Formed after the Mendenhall Glacier receded in the 1930s, the glacier-fed lake reaches depths of 220 feet. The lake, surrounded by the 5,815-acre Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area within the Tongass National Forest, is just 12 miles from Juneau. This scenic spot attracts numerous visitors for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
A center of activity, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides a wealth of educational programs, breathtaking vistas of the surrounding glaciers, and extensive information on the area’s fauna and ecosystem. Fishing in Mendenhall Lake is a popular pastime, with various species like coho salmon, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout. Outfitters are on hand to provide guided fishing trips, boat tours, and helicopter tours of the glacier. The nearby campground, suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs, is in high demand, so reservations are necessary.
The Visitor Center parking lot is the starting point for several hiking routes, such as the accessible Trail of Time, Steep Creek Trail, and Photo Point Trail. The newly completed Nugget Falls Trail offers views of the spectacular 377-foot Nugget Falls. The West Glacier Trail provides access to ice caves beneath the glacier.
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. It’s a tourism hub, offering various experiences such as whale-watching cruises, salmon fishing excursions, and more. Visitors can delve into the city’s rich history at the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and the Last Chance Mining Museum. A beloved local dog, Patsy Ann, is commemorated with a statue at the docks, a testament to Juneau’s vibrant history.
Juneau offers accommodation in hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest cabins. With their natural beauty and modern amenities, Mendenhall Lake and Juneau offer a memorable Alaskan experience.