Mendenhall Refuge Trail

The Mendenhall Refuge Trail offers families an accessible, stroller-friendly path alongside a stunning turquoise glacier-fed lake with breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier. This easy, relatively flat trail is perfect for families with young children who want to experience Alaska's natural beauty without tackling challenging terrain, with opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles, porcupines, and even black bears from a safe distance.

• ✓Spectacular views of Mendenhall Glacier and turquoise Mendenhall Lake
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including bald eagles, black bears, and porcupines
• ✓Easy, mostly paved trail perfect for strollers and beginner hikers
• ✓Spawning salmon viewing in Steep Creek during late summer months
• ✓Photo opportunities with dramatic glacier and mountain backdrops

1. 1.Arrive early morning (before 10am) to avoid cruise ship crowds and increase wildlife spotting opportunities when animals are most active
2. 2.Bring layers even in summer,glacier-fed winds can make it surprisingly chilly, and weather changes quickly in Juneau
3. 3.Pack binoculars for kids to watch for bald eagles in the trees and spawning salmon in Steep Creek (late summer)
4. 4.The trail can be muddy after rain, so waterproof shoes are essential even if the forecast looks clear
5. 5.Stop at the nearby Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center first for ranger programs, educational exhibits, and bathroom facilities before hitting the trail

Visit May through September for the best weather and accessible trails, with July and August offering the warmest temperatures. Early mornings on weekdays provide the most peaceful experience, while late summer (August-September) is ideal for salmon viewing.

The trail is free to access 24 hours daily, though parking at the nearby Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center requires a $5 day pass per vehicle. The main trail sections are paved and stroller-accessible, with restrooms available at the visitor center.

While technically open year-round, the trail is most accessible and family-friendly from May through September. Winter visits (October-April) can be icy and require microspikes, with shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather making it challenging for young children. Snow and ice may cover the trail from November through March.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center has vending machines for snacks, but for a proper meal, head to The Sandpiper Cafe (15 minutes away) for kid-friendly breakfasts and lunches, or Bullwinkle's Pizza in the Mendenhall Valley for casual family dining.