In my last blog, I tapped into some amazing day excursions while visiting Juneau. Here are 4 more amazing adventures for the outdoor enthusiast.
Mendenhall Lake Canoe Adventure
Your adventure begins by paddling across Mendenhall Lake in an extremely stable 28’ traditional Tlingit-style canoe. Paddle slowly past icebergs surrounded by one of the richest samplings of Alaskan wildlife you’ll find anywhere. Birds, including arctic terns, nest in the towering cliffs, and eagles, goats, salmon, and bears are all common sights! Next, venture within yards of the massive, awe-inspiring face of Mendenhall Glacier. You’ll come close to the base of the beautiful and powerful Nugget Falls. Rain gear, life jackets, and overboots are supplied. You'll be thrilled that you were fortunate enough to participate in this one-of-a-kind adventure!
Private Salmon and Halibut Fishing Charters
Some of the best fishing is in Juneau, and you can charter a private 30’ custom fishing boat for either 4 or 6 hours in some of the most scenic waters Alaska has to offer. The boat is fully equipped including a heated cabin, flush-able head (toilet), and state of the art electronics to maximize your fishing success. You’ll be supplied with rods, reels, and all the gear and tackle needed for a successful day on the water. The captains will target the specific salmon or halibut that are in season, and work hard to keep you in that area. Snacks and soda are included on the 4 hour tour, and on the 6 hour tour, a hoagie-type sandwich is also included. After your day on the water, the captains will clean your catch and if you desire arrange to have it shipped to your home (for an extra fee).
Glacier Treks via Helicopter
Three levels of glacier treks are available for most types of adventure travelers! Each tour begins with flightseeing to allow you to take in the beauty of several glaciers (depending on weather). Most times Mendenhall, Herbert and/or Lemon Glaciers are in view and sometimes you’ll be able to see Taku, Norris, Bottle, and Thiel Glaciers. Once you land on the glacier, you’ll be instructed on the proper use of the (included) mountaineering gear. Tours range from a 1 hour non-strenuous walkabout with plenty of photography opportunities, a 2 hour trek over remote glacial routes that includes some steep terrain, and level 3, X Trek, a 4 hour hike that includes climbing and descending ice walls. An experience you will never forget!
Salmon Bake and Gold Panning
Relive Juneau's gold rush history! You'll head up to the historic Last Chance Basin, where you can see the remains of the Juneau gold mine. Learn how to pan for gold, keep everything you find, and receive a souvenir gold claim deed. Then you’re off to the salmon bake featuring Alaskan-caught wild salmon grilled over an open alder wood fire. Also available for you to enjoy is baked chicken, baked beans, wild rice pilaf, a variety of fresh salads, cornbread, lemonade, coffee, tea, and a fresh blueberry cake for dessert. Wine and beer are available for purchase. While you dine beside Salmon Creek, you’ll be entertained by local musicians. The end of your day will be spent roasting marshmallows over a campfire or you might take a walk to see the lovely Salmon Creek waterfall beneath which salmon spawn and remains of the historic Wagner Mine are visible.
These are just a few day trips you can do while visiting the great state of Alaska. Interested? I’d be more than happy to help you plan an amazing vacation! Click here for more information!