Jane Ferguson
A Disappointing Start Turned Into an Unforgettable Day
The day didn’t start as planned. My dad and I were thrilled about our long-anticipated helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier, complete with a sled dog experience-my dream excursion. But that excitement quickly turned into disappointment when we disembarked, only to find the tour had been canceled. I shed a few tears over the lost opportunity, but we quickly regrouped and decided to make the most of our time in Juneau.
We booked a last-minute bus trip to the Mendenhall Glacier, and it turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Our bus driver was full of fascinating facts and seemed to spot eagles everywhere, adding a little extra magic to the ride. But nothing could prepare me for my first glimpse of the glacier-it was absolutely stunning, unlike anything I’d ever seen before.
Hiking and Exploring Mendenhall Glacier
Once we arrived, we set off to explore the area. The paths led us through lush greenery and brought us to a quiet stretch of beach. Standing there, surrounded by towering mountains, the icy blue glacier, a serene lake, and a powerful rushing waterfall, I felt like we stumbled upon a slice of untouched paradise. We were some of the only people on that part of the beach, which made the moment feel even more special.
From there, we hiked to Nugget Falls, a gorgeous trail that meanders through the lush greenery and leads right to the base of the waterfall. The sound of the rushing water and sheer size of the falls were awe-inspiring. We even had time to pick another trail to wander before catching the bus back into town.
Tracy’s Crab Shack: A Dream Meal Come True
Back in Juneau, we indulged in some shopping before heading to a place I have been looking forward to for months: Tracy’s Crab Shack. As a crab leg enthusiast, trying authentic Alaskan king crab was at the top of my list. The line outside Tracy’s was long, but I didn’t mind waiting-it gave me time to prepare for the indulgent meal (and talk myself into spending that much money)!
Let me tell you, the food was worth every single penny and every minute of the wait. The crab legs were enormous-literally bigger than my head-and every bite was perfection. The garlic bread, coleslaw, and crab bisque complimented the meal perfectly. Washing it all down with a glass of refreshing Northwind Cider was the cherry on top.
Ending the Day in Downtown Juneau
We spent the rest of our time in Juneau shopping and hopping between local bars, soaking in the lively yet laid-back atmosphere of the city. Do NOT miss the Red Dog Saloon, and grab yourself a Duck Fart!
Why Juneau Stole My Heart
Juneau offered a picture perfect mix of natural beauty and city charm, and I loved the balance of activities available. From the hiking trails to the incredible food, it was a day I’ll never forget. Although I missed out on the sled dog experience, Juneau exceeded my expectations and left me dreaming of a return visit.
Whether you’re into whale watching, glacier treks, or simply enjoying fresh seafood, Juneau has something for everyone. For me, it was the highlight of the entire cruise, and I can’t wait to go back and discover even more!
We are going in September and will definitely follow your trail! It sounds fantastic!