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Reviews

Tongass/Mendenhall Lake


User Reviews

Cindy Bellucci

September 23, 2025

This area is beautiful and peaceful. We went on Saturday so the visitor center itself was closed,but the museum and bathrooms were open. There are many paths that can be taken and one leads to an amazing view of the waterfall and glacier. It is about 2 miles back and forth plus more for any other path in the area. All worth the fun walk around. It is not super strenuous.

Suresh Jayaraman

September 22, 2025

It's located 2nd floor, you have the option of elevator or steps. Has useful information, displays and rangers are present to explain glacier history and answer your questions regarding the same. Nugget falls is 1 mile hike (one way from here), photo point is about .3 miles (oneway) You will experience the most beautiful falls if you do plan to hike ( mostly flat).

Bolu Jackson

September 04, 2025

Great hiking experience in Juneau. The trail is well maintained, I recommend layering up and comfortable hiking boots. Casual 3.5 mile trail was a lot of fun! Be ready for those steps though! Bring your own snacks but PLEASE don't litter. have fun!

Ino Ruiz

August 28, 2025

Really unique place until the glacier melts then they might have to change the name to Medenhall Glacier Memorial Park. We were able to drop by this on our way to the whale watching tour. We were able to do the short trail, walk up to the lake. If you have time, you can walk up to the Nugget Falls trail in 30min. It's a lot of snow melt, and it's pretty. The visitor center is small, but informative. They do have Junior Ranger program. Small parking lot and facilities to make the time at the park enjoyable. We were really lucky as the sun was out, despite the rainy season. Nice park, great views that near Juneau has to offer.

Dane

August 20, 2025

4 Stars – Beautiful Glacier Experience with Some Limitations We visited the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center as part of a cruise excursion, and overall it was a memorable stop. The visitor center itself is very well done, full of fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and helpful rangers who provide great insight into the glacier’s history and the surrounding environment. It’s definitely worth spending some time inside before or after exploring the trails. There are three main hiking trails, and we were able to complete two of them during our visit. The most popular trail leads to a stunning waterfall, which was one of the highlights of the day. Standing so close to the powerful rush of water was amazing, and the hike itself was easy and accessible. Just keep in mind that from the waterfall viewpoint you’ll see very little of the glacier’s face, so don’t expect a dramatic glacier backdrop from that angle. One thing to note is that the glacier has receded quite a bit over the past decade, and while it’s still impressive, it’s not quite as massive or striking as older photos might lead you to believe. That said, it’s still a remarkable sight. When we visited, it was both rainy and very crowded, which made it a little less enjoyable. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and large groups, especially if you’re visiting during cruise ship season. Despite those challenges, Mendenhall Glacier is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in Juneau. The combination of the visitor center, easy-to-access trails, and natural beauty makes it a must-see stop, even if the glacier itself isn’t as commanding as it once was.

Sarah Rudolph

May 13, 2025

It may be on the moderate to smaller size, but this place is fun and beautiful and full of surprises, especially if it's your first time! The glacier was awesome, and seeing Nugget Falls and getting that close to it was just wow! We did see a porcupine right by the trail beside the building, and we barely missed seeing a bear and her cubs on the way to the falls. Definitely a fun, educational, interactive place!

JB Lighter

May 10, 2025

Beautifully designed, informative, and interesting. There are restrooms here. It is warm and dry. Even in mid-June you'll appreciate a little warmth near this massive ice-river valley that ends in the Mendenhall Glacier. The visitor center is one of the best, with spectacular panoramic views across the water to the glacier & the adjacent melt-off falls. The combination of the creeping cliff of ragged blue ice with the roaring broad ribbon of brilliant whit falling water is an exceptional experience for us all.

Tom Bidot

May 07, 2025

If you're in Juneau Alaska this is a must-see. Many people told me to stop and see this space. The glacier is lackluster as it has been melting and is very difficult to see. If it's something that you're wanting to do you must go sooner than later before this Glacier is fully melted. However there is a waterfall on this hike and that made it worth all the while. I definitely suggest going to check this space out.

russell kauhl

April 11, 2025

Very cool park to visit, no pun intended! Seeing my first Glacier in person was pretty awesome and Nugget Falls is worth the short walk (45 minutes round trip) out to see it! Multiple trails to hike around the area add to the options to check out nature in the area. A must see for sure!

Andie G.

December 03, 2024

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is an absolute must-visit! The views of the glacier are breathtaking, and the center itself offers so much to enhance the experience. The exhibits are informative and well-presented, giving you a deeper appreciation of the glacier and the surrounding ecosystem. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions and provide insights about the area. We loved the trails leading to Nugget Falls—an easy hike with spectacular views. The opportunities for wildlife spotting added even more to the adventure. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the education, or just to take in the natural beauty of Alaska, this place has it all. Don’t miss it if you’re in Juneau!

Michael Kelley

October 11, 2021

Very well kept grounds.plenty of hot water,was nice place to stay while checking out the ice burge

Joe Kelley

August 30, 2021

Overall a good place. Great views of the glacier and nice bathrooms. We did have a dog bowl and frisbee stolen from our campsite which is why it loses a star. Campground hosts say not only could it have been other campers but people from the neighborhoods nearby walk through. Just an annoying little thing. Still a positive experience overall

Rachel Markovich

July 16, 2021

This was a great well kept campground, I had a great view from my campsite, right on the water. The restrooms were well maintained (although no soap). Easy to find my site, plenty of room for parking, the tent pad was nice and flat.

Courtney L

April 22, 2021

Great place to spend the weekend. Plenty of spots and lots of them have nice views. Can’t beat the location being right on Mendenhall lake

halena isturis

September 13, 2020

Beautiful