Access to Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves

[craftymom914]

Planning for June 2018. Does anyone know if there is a way to get to the Ice Caves that does not involve a kayak, canoe or pontoon boat? Like a small boat. Bonus points if you know what tour company provides that if there is such a thing? We have two older people who need a more substantial vehicle! :) Thank you in advance for your replies.

[halterk]

I went on this tour this year, and our tour guide said motorized boats are NOT allowed on the Mendenhall Lake. The only way to get to the ice caves is by a very LONG, steep, and dangerous mountain hike, or by a canoe / kayak.

In the winter you can walk there because the lake is frozen, but until then you must paddle.

 

Also just an FYI, you do have to hike up the glacier. My wife thought that was more of a workout than the canoeing part. But it was totally worth it 100%, and we would both definitely do it again if we have the chance. It was our best excursion we have ever taken on any vacation.

[craftymom914]

I went on this tour this year, and our tour guide said motorized boats are NOT allowed on the Mendenhall Lake. The only way to get to the ice caves is by a very LONG, steep, and dangerous mountain hike, or by a canoe / kayak.

In the winter you can walk there because the lake is frozen, but until then you must paddle.

 

Also just an FYI, you do have to hike up the glacier. My wife thought that was more of a workout than the canoeing part. But it was totally worth it 100%, and we would both definitely do it again if we have the chance. It was our best excursion we have ever taken on any vacation.

 

Thank you! Perfect for the "younger" adults. I guess we'll leave that to them. We have 2 little ones (5 and 3) that would be too small for that so we'll stay behind. It appears that we can walk on the beach and get as far as the falls.

[mapleleaves]

 

If you are referring to Nuggett Falls, it's a 1 mile trail each way. Detailed trail info on the Forest Service web site.

 

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tongass/about-forest/offices/?cid=stelprdb5401451