summer dog sled tours juneau alaska

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Juneau Dog Sled Summer Camp

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• Reviews (17)

Excursion Overview

Join our team of mushers on an adventure you won't soon forget.

Learn about Alaska's official state sport and experience a thrilling ride through the forest. Your excursion begins with a scenic drive along the Gastineau Channel and into the Ship Creek Valley. When you arrive at the summer dog camp, you will hear the excited yips and barks as the dogs greet you! Before you embark on your dogsled ride, tour the camp and learn about the history of dogsledding. You will also have the opportunity to visit a 19th-century replica of an Iditarod Outpost. Next, climb aboard a wheeled training cart and relax as your team of Alaska Huskies pulls you through the rainforest! Enjoy each and every moment of the 1.5-mile dog sled adventure before arriving back at the sled dog camp. Once back at the camp, you will have a chance to snuggle with the puppies! Be sure to have your camera ready for some fantastic photo opportunities. After a quick meet and greet with the puppies, your guide will transport you back to downtown Juneau.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation

Requirements:

• Signed liability waiver
• Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
• Children 13-17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate without a guardian
• Children under 2 are free and are considered Lap Children. They will sit on an adult's lap during the tour.

Duration: 2.25 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 1 hour - roundtrip narrated transportation
• 30 minutes - tour of the site and presentation of dogsledding history
• 30 minutes - mushing through the rainforest
• 20 minutes - photo opportunities and sled dog puppy visits along with refreshments

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets in front of the Goldbelt Mt. Robert's Tramway building. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to walk short distances and raise their knee 8 inches to accommodate steps into and out of the vehicles. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the dogs love human interaction and the musher's will let you get close and snuggly with their team.

No, for safety reasons you will not have the opportunity to run the sled.

Each sled can accommodate 6 guests.

There are no age restrictions for this tour.

There is no weight limit for this tour. Guests must be able to walk short distances and raise the knee 12 inches to accommodate steps into and out of the vehicles.

All bags must be stored at the main office prior to participation on the sled ride portion of the tour.

Non-alcoholic beverages in a closeable container and snacks are allowed on tour.

Guests must be able to walk short distances on uneven surfaces and raise the knee 12 inches to accommodate steps into and out of the vehicles.

Layered and waterproof clothing are recommended.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On aug 2023.

Interesting to see how sled dogs are managed. Ride on sled was pretty short. People were friendly and really love their dogs.

Staff were excellent and informative.

Such fun! Great guides and presentation!

On Jul 2023

What a great experience! We got so much info on the dogs, their origins, why they are placed in each position on the harness, and why they have so much power and excitement! We also learned about some of the MANY races the dogs do. This was a fantastic experience and I would highly recommend it! The staff were so informative and fun!

It was a warm day for the dogs, so maybe the experience wasn't how it normally is. It was VERY expensive for what you get. We were picked up in a van, sat in a tent while a guy talked about the dogs, rode on the cart for maybe 3/4 mile with a few dog breaks, and sat in another tent while he talked about races, my kids held one puppy for a few minutes, and then we left. I guess I didn't know what to expect, but that was not. There had to have been more than 100 dogs there. To sum it up, I felt bad for the dogs, it wasn't worth the money for my family, but the scenery was amazing.

• Reviews Showing: 17

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Duration: 2.25 hours

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Passenger (2+): $ 159.00

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Juneau & Skagway Alaska

Helicopter & dog sledding tour.

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Alaskan summer adventure, our helicopter-based icefield and glacier dog sledding tour whisks you from the dock to the glacier with  maximum comfort and safety..

Take a scenic flightseeing tour before you land at our dog sledding camp on the glacier. Once settled, you’ll meet our Alaskan Husky sled dog teams and their professional mushers and dog handlers.  You will then ride on a dog sled (in the middle of summer!) and get the opportunity to drive the dog sled while capturing photographs to remember for years!

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Helicopter & Dog Sledding Adventure

Our helicopter-based ice-field and glacier dog sledding tour whisks you from the dock to the glacier with the maximum comfort and safety..

Experience the thrill of glacier flight-seeing prior to landing at our dog-sledding camp. Meet our Alaskan Huskies sled dog teams along with their professional mushers and dog handlers. After learning about the dogs, it’s time for a ride on the dogsled! Opportunities to drive the dog sled on the glacier and capture unforgettable photos are around every glacier turn!

Please join us this Summer for glacier dog-sledding and spectacular flight seeing in either Juneau or Skagway.

limited availability & spaces fill quickly

Want The Dogs But Not The Flight?

Are you a dog lover looking for an unforgettable adventure? If so, you must visit our sister company, Gold Rush Dog Tours. They offer the ultimate dog sledding experience without the glacier flightseeing tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i bring, when should i make my reservation, how do i book, how do i get there, what should i wear, what our customers are saying, exhilarating helicopter ride, definite “must do”, amazing & inforative, just like the movies, get in touch, send us a message, call us: (523) 486-3562.

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Shore Excursion Details

Dog sledding summer camp, juneau, alaska.

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• 2 1/4 hrs Estimate Duration

Join us on an excursion where you learn about Alaska’s official state sport with a trip to Dog Sledding Summer Camp. Your adventure begins on the breathtaking drive along Gastineau Channel, through the historic AJ Gold Mine site and into the remote and scenic Sheep Creek Valley. As you arrive at the summer camp training site, you will be greeted by a professional dog musher and some of the state’s most famous athletes: the Alaskan Huskies! You will receive an educational tour of the camp, and visit a 19th century replica Iditarod Outpost. Next, climb aboard a comfortable wheeled cart and relax as your energetic Alaskan husky team guides you along the one-and-a-half-mile trail through beautiful landscapes. You’ll return to Dog Sledding Summer Camp for your chance to meet the dogs and snuggle the next generation of great Alaskan athletes: sled dog puppies! This family-friendly excursion is truly an authentic Alaskan experience.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Activity Level:

• 3 Challenging

+1 907-983-4444

Sled dog discovery in juneau, from us $174.00.

Experience a true Alaskan adventure while supporting the state sport in the state capital! Board the bus in town for a pleasant ride over to our dog camp on Douglas Island, where you will feel and hear the excitement of the dogs as you arrive! Enjoy an amusing and wildly fun sled ride through the lush Tongass National Forest, attend a Musher Presentation to learn about this unique element of Alaskan culture from real mushers, and the best for last: time to play with our precious husky puppies!

• Dates & Price

Get ready for a thrilling adventure as you embark on a 25-minute narrated drive to Douglas Island, where an exhilarating dog sledding experience awaits you. You will be greeted by the enthusiastic barks and howls of our teams of dogs, who are excited to take you on a ride you'll never forget. Our custom-designed wheeled summer sleds comfortably seat six people, with the musher in charge of steering the team from the back. As you sit back and enjoy the ride, you'll witness the sheer determination and spirit of our 16 dogs as they pull you along the trail. As you approach the halfway mark, the musher will make a brief stop to give the dogs a much-needed break and to snap some photos of you with the dog team. You'll have plenty of time to ask any questions you may have about the sport and the dogs themselves during the Musher Presentation, which takes place in a covered wooden area at the camp. After the presentation, take a leisurely stroll across our hanging bridge overlooking Fish Creek, surrounded by majestic spruce and hemlock trees. The scenery is breathtaking, and you'll feel at one with nature as you breathe in the fresh, crisp Alaskan air. But the fun doesn't stop there, as we almost always have some litters of adorable husky puppies waiting for some love and attention. These furry little balls of energy need socialization, and you'll be helping us out by snuggling up with them. Finally, as your dog sledding adventure comes to an end, board the bus back to your dock to continue exploring our state's charming capital city.

What's included in this tour Items that are covered in the cost of tour price

Transportation to and from the pier

What's not included in this tour Items that are not covered in the cost of tour price

Rain gear, gratuities

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Dog Sledding Summer Camp (JU04)

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Juneau Dog Sledding: Unleash Your Inner Musher In Alaska

By: Author Karen Hosier

Dog sledding should top the bucket list for anyone seeking an exhilarating adventure in Juneau with the necessary budget. The Glacier Dog Sledding & Helicopter Tour ranks among Juneau’s most popular sledding excursions.

This excursion takes want-to-be mushers to a snow-covered glacier surrounded by towering white peaks, to enjoy an exciting ride. It’s a bucket list adventure enjoyed by those from four to seventy, and I’ve been fortunate enough to have done it more than once.

Since Juneau has no snow in summer, helicopter rides are required to reach Juneau Icefield. The tour features an exhilarating ride on a dog sled pulled by a team of huskies speeding through the wilderness.

However, travelers with a large family could be paying thousands for the experience.

Another great option is the Juneau Sled Dog Discovery tour. This two 1/2-hour excursion includes a one-mile ride on a wheeled sled through the rainforest.

Tours include meeting the huskies and their mushers, learning about their training and care, and even playing with the adorable puppies. 

This budget-friendly tour is a fantastic choice for families since it doesn’t require an expensive helicopter.

While the experience isn’t on snow and ice, it’s still a thrilling ride while learning about the history and culture of sledding with dogs in Alaska.

Glacier Dog Sledding Tours In Juneau

Glacier dog sled tours are the number one excursion if you’re arriving by ship to the Juneau port. Offered by cruise lines, these tours sell out fast. The excursion includes the helicopter ride, dog mushing, and time at the dog sled camp.

Several tour companies offer such adventures, whether booking with a cruise line, directly, or through a third party.

TEMSCO offers helicopter rides for both sightseeing and dog sledding. They have operations in Juneau, Skagway, and Denali. In Juneau, they take guests to the top of Mendenhall Glacier for their dog sled touring experience.

The tour lasts three hours, including travel time to the airport and flight time to the glacier. Guests spend about an hour on the glacier, half of which is on the sled.

Expect to pay USD 659 per person, including children. Be prepared for the weather by wearing appropriate clothing, although TEMSCO provides glacier boots to keep out the snow and ice.

Coastal Helicopters

Coastal Helicopters is another excellent option for a sledding adventure in Juneau. I chose Coastal because their pilots fly year-round. This tour takes guests to Herbert Glacier, part of the Juneau Icefield.

Similarly priced to TEMSCO, I spent just over an hour at Herbert Dog Camp, greeting the dogs, asking questions of the handlers, and naturally, mushing my dog team around the glacier.

Like the other companies, we had the option to operate the sleigh. I took turns with my daughter who was thirteen at the time.

Northstar Helicopters

Northstar Helicopters also offers an unforgettable dog sledding experience in Juneau. They transport guests on a scenic helicopter ride to Norris Glacier, where experienced mushers and dog teams welcome eager guests. 

Northstar offers helicopter glacier trekking, heli-skiing, and glacier dog mushing. The latter lasts 3 hours and 25 minutes and costs USD 689 per person. Like the other vendors, they supply glacier boots.

While all helicopter companies have a cancellation policy, Northstar has the most generous one.

Juneau Dog Sledding Costs

If planning to go canine sledding in Juneau, pricing varies depending on the booking source. Cruise lines often secure most time slots through the three listed companies.

So, expect to pay up to USD 1000 per person when reserving through a cruise line. Also, there are no discounted rates for children over two years of age. It’s important to note that tours have surcharge fees if guests exceed the 250 lb. weight limit.

Cancellation Policies

Overall, dog sledding on a glacier is an event that often gets canceled. Low clouds and bad weather can prevent helicopters from flying. While it may result in disappointment, safety is most important for pilots and passengers.

Guests on a canceled tour will receive a full refund. If the weather improves, tour companies will try to reschedule for later in the day.

Have a backup plan for spending the day in Juneau . Alternatively, whale watching, riding the Mount Roberts Tram, or going to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake are fun activities too.

Should you choose to cancel, know the company’s policy to see if they offer a full or partial refund.

Preparing For A Dog Sledding Adventure

When planning an adventure with a dog sled team, it’s crucial to know a few things to ensure full preparation for the experience. Here are some tips to help get ready for the husky tour.

Helicopter Seating And Ride

When taking a helicopter tour, passengers can’t choose their seats. At the airport, staff weigh individuals and assign spots to balance the helicopter’s weight.

While many prefer front or window seats, passengers must sit in the assigned locations. This might result in sitting next to strangers rather than with family.

Depending on the helicopter, there is usually only room for 4 to 6 people. We couldn’t take bags, purses, backpacks, or drones. I received a locker at the airport to secure my personal items before my flight. I took only a smartphone to capture photos.

Luckily, we received the front-row seats next to the pilot. A family with two small children took the seats behind. 

Flightseeing is a bonus of glacier dog sledding. We enjoyed spectacular views of the Icefield and Auke Bay. Those prone to motion sickness should consider medication to handle potential turbulence.

What To Wear

Since Alaska’s weather is unpredictable even in summer, select clothing pieces that will keep you warm and dry. It can still get chilly on a glacier, even if it’s not snowing or raining. No blankets or coverings are supplied by the operator to keep guests warm and dry.

Guests ride in the sled seated as if sitting on a chair. This differs from the basket sleds where guests recline close to the ice.

I took my excursion in July and experienced freezing rain on Herbert Glacier. It was much colder than I anticipated.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Select a waterproof or water-resistant jacket.
• Wear protective mittens or gloves.
• Bring sunglasses to cut down the glare off the ice.
• Wear a warm hat to keep your ears and head warm.

Overall, dressing in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is essential for fully enjoying the adventure. While there may be warm sunshine, it’s best to plan for the worst.

Juneau Sled Dog Discovery

If sledding on a glacier isn’t within budget, take a dog mushing tour on dirt instead. This adventure costs 70% less than the experience on a glacier and doesn’t require an expensive helicopter ride.

Unlike the more costly tours, the chances of cancellation are near zero. Choose this option to enjoy the thrill of dog sledding in summer while saving money.

On a Juneau Sled Dog Discovery tour, a team of 14 to 16 huskies will pull a custom-wheeled cart on a dirt road for one mile. Professional handlers who participate in the winter sport recount stories of the Iditarod and what it takes to run the grueling race.

In contrast to the experience of snow and ice, guests can’t operate the cart. 

Is Dog Sledding Ethical?

One of the most common concerns about dog sledding is whether it is ethical. In winter, locals use sled dogs for transportation in remote areas, which is common practice in other global areas, such as the Arctic and Antarctica.

Alaska’s most famous annual event is the Iditarod. The Iditarod sled dog race commemorates the delivery of diphtheria serum to Nome a century ago, which was done by sled dogs.

A summer dog sled tour allows owners to keep their sled dogs exercised in warmer months. Dogs are chosen for their speed and willingness to run.

Ethical dog sledding companies prioritize the health and safety of their dogs, providing them with proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care. They also limit the number of daily runs and rotate dogs between runs.

It is also important to note that sled dogs are bred for this purpose and enjoy the activity. They are highly trained and take pride in their work. 

When I landed on the glacier and heard their barking in anticipation of the run, I knew running was in their blood.

Other Places To Go Dog Sledding In Alaska

There are plenty of options to choose from when seeking more places to go dog mushing in Alaska. Here are a few other locations to consider:

Skagway:  Operated by TEMSCO, they fly to Denver Glacier. Alternatively, Skagway Sled Dog Discovery offers a cart experience on a dirt path.

Anchorage:  Several companies offer summer as well as winter excursions around Anchorage. Most offer transportation to and from the city. Winter tours are far more affordable as snow blankets the city.

Girdwood:  Alpine Alaska Air offers a glacial experience on Girdwood Glacier. Girdwood also offers a summer mushing adventure with a wheeled cart.

Seward:  Seavey’s Ididaride offers both a dirt and ice experience.

Mushing School:  Learn to mush and handle a dog team at the Alaska Mushing School near Anchorage.

While it’s been several years since I enjoyed the thrill of riding a dog sled, it feels like yesterday. The incessant barking before and silence during the run will remain in my memories forever.

Gold Rush Dog Tours, LLC

Dog’s First is a slogan we live by.   When it comes to the care and needs of each individual sled dog every decision made begins with Dogs First.

Download our Dogs First brochure.

Mission Statement:

To promote the health and mental well being of each individual sled dog

To ensure the care of each dog exceeds industry standards

To be proactive in evaluating current standards

To promote excellence in care standards within our organization

To educate and encourage others to be proactive in evaluating and exceeding quality standards

Veterinarians :

• Alyssa Komac, DVM , Contract vet
• Rachael Berngart, DVM , Bridge Veterinary Services, Contract vet
• Vets are available daily for consultation
• Review of Mushers Weekly Vet report on all dogs receiving vet care
• Weekly update of ongoing treatment plans
• Monthly on-site visit
• Prescription medications & extensive on site veterinary supplies
• Sled Dog Kennels whose dogs come to work in the summer are vetted through our contacts to ensure they are reputable.
• Each sled dog receives a veterinary exam prior to arriving for a summer on the glacier
• Vet exam verifies shot records, states dogs are healthy and in good condition
• Signed by a veterinarian.
• Individual rabies certificates are submitted along with the vet check.
• Sled dogs are screened to ensure they are well socialized.

Mushers Dogs First Program:

• Dog 1 st aid & CPR training and certification
• Weekly Veterinarian Reports
• High care giver to sled dog ratio
• Top of the line Dog Food
• Maintained housing
• Dog yards are cleaned continually throughout the day
• Fresh, clean water is always available
• Sufficient sled dogs to ensure adequate Run / Rest times.
• Mushers hired are experienced with Sled Dogs. Many have received Vet’s choice, Sportsmanship and Humanitarian Awards.

907-983-2886 [email protected] Facebook.com/GoldRushDogs

Juneau, Alaska & Skagway, Alaska

Gold Rush Dog Tours, LLC

Summer cart-mushing in juneau, alaska.

RIDE WITH THE SHEEP CREEK CREW

Situated a short drive from downtown Juneau, Gold Rush Dog Tours showcases Alaska's Official State Sport within the quintessential mountain valley we fondly call home.  Watched over by a dedicated crew, the team at Sheep Creek brings historical mushing to life as you explore a late 19th century replica outpost complete with cookies.  As you learn the basic essentials of mushing you will be introduced to the true athletes of the world's greatest races, the enthusiastic dogs born to run, enjoying the summer with their biggest fans.

Following introductions, your Musher and Handler Team will provide instruction on the mechanics of the cart and the importance of dryland summer cart-mushing in a modern musher's training program.  Once on board, you will feel the power and agility of these great athletes as you tour through the mountain valley first cut by glaciers, then by miners and today still by the ever persistent Sheep Creek.

Your time sharing in camp life is approximately an hour with 20 minutes dedicated to enjoying in the beauty of the valley riding with the dogs.

To make a reservation, please contact our Reservations Specialist .

Thank you for considering us and choosing to visit Alaska.

Check us out in Skagway .

907-983-2886 [email protected] Facebook.com/GoldRushDogs

Juneau, Alaska & Skagway, Alaska

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Dog Sled Summer Camp

Juneau, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 2¼ Hours

Meals Included

Meals not included

Learn what it takes to be a musher in the great Iditarod dog sled race with a trip to a dog sled camp .

Your adventure begins as you embark on a motorcoach ride into the remote and scenic Sheep Creek Valley . You're headed to the home of some of the state's foremost athletes -- the huskies that run in the Iditarod.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by an experienced Iditarod musher and his dog team. You'll tour the camp, visit the replica Iditarod race checkpoint , and go through the steps the mushers perform, as if you're traveling the route with them.

Climb aboard a comfortable wheeled sled (no snow) and relax as a husky team whisks you along the 1.5-mile trail through the beautiful landscape.

Returning to camp, visit with the dogs, pet the puppies, and learn what it's like to live amid 120 happy huskies.

Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Sled ride covers 1.5 miles. To participate, children must be able to understand the rules of interaction with the dogs, and a parent or guardian must supervise any interaction.

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Day 0: Arrive in Anchorage (late)

Day 1: Full day in Anchorage

Pick up rental car , Earthquake Park, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail . Possibly Trolly Tour or Anchorage museum if we have the time and energy after a late flight .

Day 2: Drive to Glacier View (2.5 hours)

Matanuska Glacier tour at 3pm through Glacier Tours. On the way, do 1 hike: Thunderbird Falls, South Fork/Barbara Falls, Albert Falls at Eagle River Nature Center, Reflections Lake or Boddenburg Butte. Too many to choose from, so we’ll probably let my daughter choose the night before based on how far we want to go and how early we want to get out of the hotel. Stop at Eklutna Historical Park. Time permitting, stop at Mat Rec Site and do the short Edge Nature Trail walk. (Intentionally skipping Reindeer Farm and Musk Ox farm in lieu of more hiking adventures.) Staying at Alpenglow Luxury Camping.

Day 4: Drive to Denali , with a stop in Willow for Dog Sledding

QUESTION: How much time should we allow to get from Alpenglow Luxury Camping where we are staying to Snowhook Adventures in Willow? Google Maps says 2 hours, but I know not to trust that!

After dog sledding, fingers crossed for a clear day. If clear, hike Moose Flats Loop Trail. If not a clear day, open to other suggestions for a hike or activity. Possibly Talkeetna to the Riverfront Park. Or may just head straight to the Denali Visitor Center to get the Jr. Ranger back pack and booklet and do an entrance hike. Staying at Aurora Denali.

Day 4: East Fork Transit Bus into Denali

7:30am bus ticket. Will definitely get off to hike at some point, likely along the river bed, but will talk to the rangers and bus drivers for other ideas. We are prepared hikers, but getting lost makes me nervous, and not up for big elevation gains.

Day 5: 2nd full day in Denali

Hike Savage River Loop, maybe an additional hikes around the visitor center. Sled dogs.

Day 6: Drive back to Anchorage (5 hrs)

Choose to do this long drive in one shot so that we would have more time for stops the following day. Do one of the hikes we didn’t do on the way up to Denali. Stop at Iditarod Headquarters.

Day 7: Drive Anchorage to Seward (3 hrs)

Hike Virgin Creek falls or the waterfall at McHugh Recreation Site. Gold Panning at Indian Valley Mine or Crow Creek Mine. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center . Would love to fit in Tonsina Creek Trail this day, but that is probably overly ambitious. Once in Seward, planning to stop at the visitor center to pick up a Jr. Ranger book and drop off our laundry at Suds N Swirl to pickup before we get on our cruise a couple days later. Possibly also dropping off the rental car (TBD). Staying at Northern Nights B&B.

QUESTION: Beluga Point – What are the chances of seeing Belugas if we are there at low tide? I think it’s pretty low likelihood, so probably would make this a quick stop.

QUESTION: For Gold Panning, is India Valley Mine or Crow Creek Mine better? Any reason to choose one over the other?

Day 8: Kenai Fjords Cruise with Major Marine

Doing the 11:30 cruise , so we will likely just walk around Seward/along the waterfront in the morning.

Day 9: Exit Glacier & Board Cruise

If we’ve kept our car , will drive; if not, will take a shuttle/taxi. Hike Glacier Overlook Trail (possibly ranger-led if we time it right). Explore the nature center and get Jr. Ranger badge. Head back to our hotel to pick up bags and head to the cruise terminal. Plan to arrive by 4pm for an 8pm departure.

QUESTION: If we’ve decided not to keep our car , is it feasible to get to the cruise terminal with all our bags on the free shuttle? Or is cab a better option? Not sure how cruise crowds affect either of these options.

Once on the cruise , we have the below plans (all excursions booked)

- Juneau : Mendenhall Glacier Rafting. Maybe do the tram afterwards if it’s a nice day (not planning to purchase anything ahead of time)

- Skagway: Grizzly Falls Zip Lines. Visitor Center to get Jr. Ranger Badge.

- Icy Straight Point: Nothing booked, but depending on weather and what we feel like doing, either walk along the beach, take the Gondola then hike. If we have not seen whales by this point in our trip, we may consider doing whale watching. QUESTION: Are there options to book whale watching (through a reputable company) last minute? Any recommendations on who is good vs. who we should stay away from? We know we would pay more by not booking ahead….just hoping we’ll see enough whales without booking separate whale watching.

- Ketchikan: Traitor’s Cove with Island Wins, booked

After the cruise , we are going to stay an extra night in Vancouver, and likely go to Stanley Park, Granville Island and maybe Queen Elizabeth Park.

And if you made it all the way to my VERY long post, extra extra extra thank you. :-)

I also wouldn’t miss the Sealife center in Seward . :)

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Alaska Hotels and Places to Stay

• Why KEEP ALL QUESTIONS in 1 original thread?
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• RESOURCES for planning a trip?
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• Weather and sunrise/sunset?
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• Trip Reports 2020
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