entdoc1

We're going to be stopping in Juneau on a cruise next month. We want to visit Mendenhall Glacier, Mendenhall Glacier Gardens and the Mount Roberts Tramway. Is it practical to do all three? If so what's the best way to get from one to the other and in which order should we do them?

sludick

It depends on how long your ship is in port. Are you looking at a tour? Your best bet is to go to cruisecritic.com. Also you might repost this on Fodors in the Cruises - Alaska forum.

There are buses, with operators selling tickets near the ships (just ask if you don't see them), it's an economical way to get to Mendenhall Glacier.

happytrailstoyou

Here is a combination tour offered by Carnival. If Carnival offers it, perhaps your cruise line does too. If not, there are tour operators lined up on the pier when you get off your ship:

https://www.carnival.com/shore-excur...ramway-171065#

Here is information about the gardens:

http://www.glaciergardens.com

HTtY

traveller1959

Do not overplan Alaska. Weather is always a factor to consider. When we were in Juneau, Mount Roberts was in clouds. And this happens often.

We did rent a car in Juneau and drove to Mendenhall Glacier and afterwards to Eagle Beach, which was most rewarding, with dozens of eagles and other waterfowl and a porcupine right on the parking lot.

In any case, admire Tracy's legs!

Read more here.

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...-land-tour.cfm

rachill_az

There really is nothing like having ice beneath your feet and walking out on the glacier. A trip to Alaska is not complete with a visit to a glacier (not just viewing it from afar). Juneau is a great place to do this - join a day trek to the Mendenhall Glacier. You'll get to walk on the ice, peer into crevasse, and even explore the ice caves. If you are in port long enough, there is plenty of time for this. You won't regret it! It was the highlight of my trip to Alaska last year (2015). You can read more about it on my blog here: http://livelifeoutofoffice.com/mende...lacier-alaska/

happytrailstoyou

Do not over-plan Alaska.

Good advice. In Juneau and Skagway we booked tours on the dock rather than on ship. Groups were small, prices were good, and guides were great.

HTtY

I enjoy more watching glaciers calving than walking on them, but there won't be any calving at Mendenhall.

hpeabody

Don't forget Tracy's Crab Shack, right near the docks.
http://www.kingcrabshack.com/

traveler2005

rachill_az - Thank you for sharing your blog. Your Mendenhall Glacier experience was breathtaking. Between the photos, the prose, and the video, I feel like I experienced it along with you.