Juneauのおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center near Juneau brings you up close to the rugged beauty of Alaska. Here you can not only admire the impressive glacier and the turquoise glacial water, but also gain exciting insights into the geology and ecosystem of this region. The center itself offers exhibitions that illustrate the history and development of the glacier and a fascinating view of the retreating ice. The area around the center is criss-crossed by easily accessible trails such as the Photo Point Trail and the popular Nugget Falls Trail, which takes you to the roaring Nugget Falls. For nature lovers, the Steep Creek Trail is a highlight - especially during salmon season, when bears gather at the stream. From elevated walkways you can observe the animals without disturbing their peace. In winter, a completely different scene awaits you, when nature freezes in silent beauty. Take the time to explore the short Trail of Time, which tells the history of the glacier on information boards and lets you delve deep into the formation of this unique landscape. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is more than just a visitor center - it is an experience that shows you the power and fragility of nature first hand.

You can probably guess how Gold Creek got its name. But the history behind Ebner Falls — this picturesque waterfall in Gold Creek, which you can see from an overlook on the trail — is a little more obscure. It may have been named for one of the early miners in this area. You'll also find one of the more precarious sections of trail here, as it narrows to a footpath to skirt around a cliff.

From this trail juncture, turning to the west will lead you up the challenging trail to the summit of Mount Juneau. Continuing on the main Perseverance Trail, to the east, will lead you to intersections with other mining roads and the ruins of several mines in Silverbow Basin.

You can probably guess how Gold Creek got its name. But the history behind Ebner Falls — this picturesque waterfall in Gold Creek, which you can see from an overlook on the trail — is a little more obscure. It may have been named for one of the early miners in this area.

The CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) originally built this shelter in 1937; it served as the first registry booth at Mendenhall Glacier. It was restored by HistoriCorps workers in 2010, and now stands as a monument along the Trail of Time trail.

Although entering the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is not required — you can simply hike most of the trails in this area, if you like — it is an excellent way of learning more about the landscapes and wildlife of this area. You can ask questions of park staff, and the windows are situated to offer clear views of Mendenhall Glacier, on the far side of the lake. Pedestal binoculars are available for a closer look. Entering the visitor center does cost $5 per person/day during the May 1 – September 30 busy season, or $15 for a season pass that allows you to bring a guest with you. You can pay for the pass at automated kiosks scattered around the visitor center parking areas, or online at https://www.discoverysoutheast.org/store/ Your payment for the visitor center also allows you to enter the visitor center pavilion, or to visit Photo Point and the Steep Creek Trail. You do not need to pay to hike the other trails in this area. If you reached the visitor center aboard one of the buses from the cruise docks, the price of entry is usually included in the cost of your ticket.

During the summer months (May to September) the visitor center is open daily from 8am to 7.30pm. October to April open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm, excluding public holidays. There is a two-week temporary closure at the end of April. Visitors must purchase a ticket from May 1st to September 9th. They can be purchased from the machines in the Mendenhall Glacier parking lot.. Day passes are $5.

In the Visitor Center there are not only a great view of the glacier, but also many interesting aspects about glaciers. The rangers are happy to help with any questions.