Juneau, Alaska – Mendenhall Glacier

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Mendenhall Glacier (in Tlingit language “Sít”) is a glacier about 13.6 miles (21.9 km) long located in Mendenhall Valley, about 12 miles (19 km) from downtown Juneau in the southeast area of the U.S. state of Alaska. The glacier and surrounding landscape is protected as part of the 5,815 acres (2,353 ha) Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, a federally designated unit of the Tongass National Forest.

The Juneau Icefield Research Program has monitored the outlet glaciers of the Juneau Icefield since 1942, including Mendenhall Glacier. The glacier has also retreated 1.75 miles (2.82 km) since 1929, when Mendenhall Lake was created, and over 2.5 miles (4.0 km) since 1500. The end of the glacier currently has a negative glacier mass balance and will continue to retreat in the foreseeable future

Credit Wikipedia® https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mendenhall_Glacier

Photo credit William van Wyk 2023©

Our hike commenced with a sense of anticipation as we embarked on the adventurous trail towards the magnificent glacier. The path, an enchanting out-and-back route, offered captivating views not only of the Mendenhall Glacier but also of the impressive Suicide Glacier, which adorned the skies above.

Embarking on this moderate yet exhilarating journey, we were greeted by a modest elevation gain of approximately 230 meters. The gradual ascent allowed us to fully absorb the surrounding natural beauty as we made our way through the untamed wilderness. With each step, the trail unveiled breathtaking vistas, showcasing Mother Nature’s grandeur in all its splendor.

As we approached the glacier, the terrain became more challenging, requiring a cautious approach. Here, the trail presented a series of carved rock stairs, elegantly designed amidst the rugged landscape, guiding us towards the icy marvel. To ensure utmost safety and support for hikers, sturdy handrails, crafted from durable cables, were thoughtfully placed alongside the stairs. These proved to be invaluable as we traversed the more treacherous sections, offering both stability and reassurance.

The magnificence of the Mendenhall Glacier gradually unfolded before our eyes, captivating our senses with its magnificent icy expanse. We marveled at the sheer brilliance of its azure hues, intricately formed crevasses, and luminous ice formations. Standing in awe of this frozen masterpiece, we couldn’t help but contemplate the immense power of nature and the ever-changing face of our planet.

The hike’s total distance stretched over 7.7 kilometers (return), allowing us to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the Alaskan wilderness. Every step taken was a testament to the rewards found when venturing off the beaten path and embracing the wonders of nature. The Mendenhall Glacier hike provided not only a physical challenge but also a profound connection with our natural surroundings, reminding us of the enduring beauty that exists beyond the confines of our daily lives.

In conclusion, our expedition to the Mendenhall Glacier proved to be a memorable and awe-inspiring experience. From the initially gentle ascent to the more demanding sections, we were mesmerized by the ethereal beauty of the glacier, enriched by the stunning panoramas that unfolded along the way. This hike not only tested our physical abilities but also reminded us of the importance of preserving and appreciating the remarkable natural wonders that grace our planet.