Alaska's Whales & Rainforest Trails

Juneau is a spectacular place of diverse, natural habitats from valley glaciers, to temperate forests and natural fjords. This exploratory journey introduces you to this pristine wilderness in an intimate setting with a Certified Naturalist Guide as your leader. Whale sightings are guaranteed on this small group outing combining a marine exploration with a gentle hike at the Mendenhall Glacier on a rain forest trail. Your trip begins with your guide sharing stories and perspectives as you travel out to the Mendenhall Glacier. A short hike takes you along a wooded path once completely covered by the massive glacier. Spend an hour exploring amid forested moraines and sweeping glacial landscapes—even track the glacier's recession over the past 100 years. This small corner of the Tongass National Forest is home to beavers, eagles, salmon, porcupines and black bears. Following a short drive, you’ll climb aboard an exploration vessel specifically designed for up-close wildlife viewing. The customized covered watercraft puts you eye-to-eye with the denizens that thrive in these protected waters. Humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, seals and sea birds are commonly seen. Keep a camera handy as you travel from place to place or drift quietly to capture the behaviors and antics of these notable marine residents. The small group size of this tour ensures a personal and interactive atmosphere making the most of this authentic Alaska experience. Note: Participants must be able to walk on their own for over an hour covering a distance up to a mile. Infants must be carried in an infant backpack. We recommend you dress in layers and wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Walking distance is approximately 1.5 miles on an improved level trail. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Liability waiver required to be signed in the presence of the tour operator. Whale sightings are guaranteed or you’ll receive $100 cash back as you disembark the whale-watching vessel. All tour participants on this excursion are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest. For more details please visit: http://ncl.stepintoalaska.com/