Nestled between towering mountains and the scenic waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau offers a unique combination of wild landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Known for its accessible glaciers, abundant wildlife, and charming downtown area, this coastal city has something for every type of traveler, whether you’re into outdoor adventures, historical tours, or just soaking in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
Travel Guide to Juneau, Alaska
Best Time to Visit
Juneau has a temperate rainforest climate, which means it’s wet for much of the year. The best time to visit is from May to September, during the summer months, when the weather is milder, and daylight lasts longer (up to 18 hours a day in June and July). This is also the prime season for whale watching, glacier tours, and hiking.
Top Attractions
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve ★★★
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a stunning destination in Southeast Alaska, part of the Inside Passage, and renowned for its breathtaking fjords, towering glaciers, and diverse wildlife. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to witness pristine wilderness, calving glaciers, and abundant marine life, all while exploring the region by boat, plane, or on foot.
Mendenhall Glacier ★
One of Juneau’s most iconic landmarks, Mendenhall Glacier, is just 13 miles from downtown. You can get breathtaking views of the glacier from the visitor center, but for an even closer experience, hike the Nugget Falls Trail (a 2-mile roundtrip) to see the glacier and the impressive waterfall up close. Kayaking tours on Mendenhall Lake are also popular for those seeking adventure.
Mount Roberts Tramway
For stunning panoramic views of the city, forests, and surrounding waters, take a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway. It ascends 1,800 feet to the top of Mount Roberts, where you can enjoy hiking trails, a nature center, and cultural exhibits. This is also a great spot for photography, with a clear view of Gastineau Channel and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Whale Watching
Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Book a whale watching tour during the summer months, and you’ll have a high chance of spotting these magnificent creatures. Many tours also offer sightings of orcas, sea lions, bald eagles, and other wildlife.
Tracy Arm Fjord
Located about 45 miles south of Juneau, Tracy Arm Fjord is a breathtaking, glacier-carved wilderness filled with towering icebergs, steep cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Book a boat tour to explore the fjord and witness the majestic beauty of twin glaciers, Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier, which frequently calve into the water below, creating dramatic splashes.
Juneau’s Historic Downtown
Juneau’s charming downtown is steeped in history and culture. Explore Franklin Street, home to many historic buildings, local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Alaska State Capitol or the Alaska State Museum, which showcases Alaskan art, history, and native cultures. For a quirky experience, stop by the Red Dog Saloon, a historic bar dating back to Juneau’s Gold Rush days.
Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
This unique botanical garden is set in a lush temperate rainforest. Visitors are transported via golf carts up a steep hillside, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Juneau and explore the stunning upside-down flower towers—trees repurposed as flower beds that create a magical atmosphere.
Eaglecrest Ski Area
If you visit during winter, Eaglecrest Ski Area offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. This community-run ski resort is perfect for skiers of all levels, with over 640 acres of terrain and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Alaskan Brewing Company
For craft beer enthusiasts, a visit to the Alaskan Brewing Company is a must. Take a brewery tour to learn about the history of brewing in Alaska and sample some of the company’s best brews, including the famous Alaskan Amber and other seasonal specialties.
Outdoor Activities
1. Hiking
Juneau is a hiker’s paradise with trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. Some of the best hikes include:
- Perseverance Trail: A historic 3-mile trail with stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and remnants of old mining equipment.
- West Glacier Trail: A more challenging 4-mile trail that takes you closer to Mendenhall Glacier’s western side and offers breathtaking views.
- Mount Roberts Trail: You can either hike from downtown or take the tram up and start from the top. This trail offers a variety of scenic viewpoints and opportunities to spot wildlife.
2. Kayaking and Canoeing
For a more immersive outdoor experience, rent a kayak or join a guided canoe tour on Mendenhall Lake or in the coastal waters surrounding Juneau. Paddle past towering icebergs, remote islands, and glacier-fed streams, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife like seals and bald eagles.
Wildlife Viewing
Juneau is home to diverse wildlife, and you’ll likely encounter several species during your visit:
- Humpback Whales and Orcas: Best seen from whale-watching boats in summer.
- Bald Eagles: Commonly seen soaring over the forests and shorelines.
- Bears: Keep an eye out for black bears near Mendenhall Glacier or in the forests around town, especially during salmon runs.
Where to Eat
- The Hangar on the Wharf: Located on the waterfront, this popular spot offers delicious seafood and stunning views of Gastineau Channel. Try the Alaskan king crab legs or salmon.
- Tracy’s King Crab Shack: For the ultimate Alaskan crab experience, Tracy’s offers fresh king crab, crab bisque, and crab cakes served right from the dockside.
- Salt: A more upscale option offering contemporary Alaskan cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Deckhand Dave’s: A casual outdoor food truck offering mouthwatering fish tacos and other seafood treats.
Getting Around
Juneau is not connected to the rest of Alaska by road, so most visitors arrive by plane or cruise ship. Juneau International Airport is just a short drive from downtown, and taxis or shuttle services are available. Once in the city, Juneau is compact and walkable, especially downtown. For destinations further out, like Mendenhall Glacier, renting a car or using public transport is recommended.
Conclusion
Juneau is a spectacular destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and rich history. Whether you’re hiking near glaciers, exploring fjords by boat, or strolling through the historic downtown, Juneau delivers an unforgettable Alaskan experience. Don’t forget your camera and a good pair of hiking boots—this is a place where adventure awaits at every turn.
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