Mendenhall Glacier Bus & Shuttle 2026 — Prices, Times & Pickup Spots

✅ Round-Trip Transport

Both the Trolley and Glacier Express provide full round-trip service. Your ticket includes the required $5 Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center fee.

⏱ 3-Hour Excursion

Plan for a 3-hour total experience: 20–25 minutes travel each way plus a full 2 hours of independent exploration at the glacier.

📍 Port Pickup

Mount Roberts Tramway
490 South Franklin, Juneau, Alaska
Look for shuttle representatives near the dock.

📍 Glacier Drop-off

The "Bear Stop"
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Parking Lot. Same location for return pickup.

Option A

The Juneau Trolley Glacier Shuttle

$79 / $55

Adult / Child

Exterior

Interior

Modern vehicle styled as a vintage streetcar
Narrated 20–25 minute drive to the glacier
Full 2 hours of glacier exploration time
Ability to open windows for open-air feel on warmer days
No charging ports (analog experience)

Best For: Travelers looking for a nostalgic, unique photo opportunity and those who appreciate vintage style over modern amenities.

Option B

The Glacier Express (Blue Bus)

$83 / $49

Adult / Child

Exterior

Interior

Brand-new full-size luxury coach buses
Quick 20–25 minute direct port-to-glacier drive
Full 2 hours of glacier exploration time
USB charging port at every single seat
Climate-controlled premium interior

Best For: Families and tech-savvy travelers prioritizing maximum comfort, phone charging, and a modern transport experience.

Local Operators vs. Cruise Ship Excursions

Feature	Local Independent Operators	Cruise Ship Excursion
Typical Price	$79–$83 Adult	$89–$139+ Adult
Time at Glacier	Full 2 Hours	1.5–2 Hours (often rushed to incentivize bundling)
Park Fees	✔ Included	✔ Included
Supports Local Economy	✔ Local operators & guides	✘ Corporate profit-heavy

Your 2-Hour Expedition Plan

Visitor Center Paved

Start here for the best elevated perspective of the entire valley. Inside, watch a 15-minute documentary, explore interactive exhibits on glacial movement, or browse the Discovery Southeast bookstore. Rangers are on-site to help you spot mountain goats using high-powered telescopes.

Photo Point Loop Paved

An easy 1/3-mile paved loop offering a head-on view of the glacier's face across the lake. This is the top spot for the classic "family photo" with the ice in the background. Fully accessible and perfect for those wanting a majestic view without a long hike.

Steep Creek Trail Boardwalk

Famous for being the best spot to see wild Black Bears in Juneau. This elevated boardwalk protects both visitors and wildlife. In July and August, watch sockeye and coho salmon spawning in the crystal-clear creek below, which often draws hungry bears right up to the viewing platforms.

Nugget Falls Trail Gravel

A 2-mile round-trip trail leading along the lakeshore to the base of the massive 377-foot Nugget Falls. You will feel the roar and the spray of the water as it tumbles into the lake just yards away from the glacier's terminus. Note: This path is flat but composed of loose gravel.

The Shuttle Deep Dive: FAQ

Where is the $7/$12/$15/$22/$30/$45 bus? +

The White Trolley and Blue Bus ARE those buses! As demand has grown — from approximately 860,000 visitors in 2010 to over 1.7 Million in 2025 — and the amount of available permits has been strictly restricted by the Forest Service, the prices have continued to increase. The good news is that the buses are much nicer and you don't have to fight for a spot in line anymore!

Read more:

Can I take the city bus for $2 instead? +

Technically yes, but the official Capital Transit Guide warns that this is a significant time investment. A round-trip journey typically consumes 4 to 5 hours, including a 20–60 minute bus ride each way plus a 1.5-mile walk from the Dredge Lake Road stop. It rains over 230 days a year in Juneau, and during peak ship days these buses often run at capacity — meaning you could miss your ship's "all aboard" time.

Do I need to buy a Glacier entry pass separately? +

No. Both the Trolley and Blue Bus tickets include the required $5 per person Forest Service fee. You can head straight to the trails or Visitor Center without standing in another line to pay.

What if my ship is late arriving at the port? +

Local operators track all cruise ship arrival times. If your ship is delayed, your shuttle reservation time will be automatically adjusted to ensure you still get your full experience.

Where is the pickup location at the port? +

Both shuttles pick up at the Mount Roberts Tramway (490 S Franklin St), but in different spots:

Glacier Trolley: Street side of the tram building — look for a large sign.
Glacier Express: Water side of the building, underneath a covered canopy with a sign.

Is the shuttle ride narrated? +

Yes! You'll enjoy a 20–25 minute narrated journey where local guides share the history of Juneau, the Gold Rush, and the science behind the receding Mendenhall Glacier.

Will I see bears at the Glacier? +

There is a chance, especially in July and August! The Steep Creek Boardwalk is a known spot for viewing Black Bears fishing for salmon. While sightings are common, they are wild animals and not guaranteed.

Are there restrooms on the bus? +

No, there are no restrooms on the shuttles themselves. However, the ride is short (25 mins), and there are large public restroom facilities at both the Port and the Glacier Visitor Center.

What should I wear for the shuttle and glacier? +

Layers are key! Juneau is in a rainforest. Bring a waterproof outer layer, comfortable walking shoes, and a light sweater. Even if it's warm at the port, it's often a few degrees cooler near the ice.

Is the shuttle wheelchair accessible? +

Please note that neither shuttle service currently operates lift-equipped buses. Collapsible wheelchairs or walkers can be folded and stored in the luggage compartment of the Glacier Express (Blue Bus). For anything more, please reach out directly or use the inquiry form below.

Local Team — On the Ground

Questions? Talk to Someone in Juneau Today

Our Juneau-based team is here to help you coordinate the perfect glacier visit. Fill out the details below and we will get back to you shortly.

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