JUNEAU's Mendenhall Glacier and SITKA Port Tour 🧊❄️ Final Stops of Our ALASKA Cruise Adventure 🚢🗻🌲

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We're continuing the adventure aboard our Alaska cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines, and first up, we're visiting Alaska's capital city, Juneau! The main attraction in Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier, so that is what we focused on with our day in port. There are numerous options for visiting the glacier, ranging from guided excursions to private shuttle transportation; however, we opted to take the public bus. We rode bus 8, which got us to the entrance of Tongass National Forest. It was a 30-minute ride, followed by a 1.6-mile walk to reach the entrance to the glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier is currently in retreat, but it's a spectacular site that gives way to Mendenhall Lake, where you can see icebergs bobbing in the water.

The following day, we continued onwards to Sitka, where we enjoyed some time in our final port of call. The weather really did not cooperate, but we did manage to visit Sitka National Historical Park, where you can see totems. There is also a small museum inside the visitor centre, where you can learn about the land transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States. Sitka was the first capital of Alaska, so there's quite a bit of history to enjoy!

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🐋🗻 Juneau & Sitka, Alaska Cruise Vlog | Mendenhall Glacier, Russian History & Rainy Day Adventures 🚢🌲

🌥️ Morning Arrival in Juneau
We start the day bright and early in Juneau, Alaska’s misty, moody capital city. Even though Anchorage often steals the spotlight, Juneau is actually Alaska's capital—packed with colourful buildings contrasting the lush greenery and foggy mountains. Despite the chilly, foggy morning, we're eager to explore this charming port!

🚌 Budget-Friendly Bus to Mendenhall Glacier
Opting for local transportation, we hop on the #8 Express bus ($2 per adult, kids ride free!). Our friendly bus driver goes above and beyond, letting us pay double on the return trip because we didn’t have exact change. This scenic bus route offers glimpses of bald eagles, downtown Juneau, and local neighbourhoods—a perfect introduction to Alaska’s vibrant capital.

❄️ Exploring the Mendenhall Glacier
Arriving at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre, we're immediately awed by this magnificent glacier. The short half-kilometre Photo Trail loop delivers unbeatable views of both glacier and waterfall, though be warned: this is one of Alaska's busiest tourist spots! Even with the crowds, it's breathtaking—icy air and majestic scenery abound.

🏘️ Downtown Juneau Walking Tour & Hidden Gems
After filling up on pizza, Sam takes you on a lively walking tour of downtown Juneau. Exploring historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, Sam discovers Juneau’s rugged frontier charm, reminiscent of rural southern Alberta. Don't miss Gold Street and the hidden staircases off Harris and Fourth—ideal for seeing local life, picturesque homes, and incredible views away from the crowds.

👶 Family Travel Tips & Cruise Reflections
Meanwhile, Audrey and Baby recharge on the cruise ship, highlighting Juneau's accessibility and family-friendly vibe. The day concludes with reflections on this quick but rich visit: Juneau deserves a longer stay for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

🚢 Sailing to Sitka: Alaska’s Final Frontier
Our cruise continues to Sitka, the final port of call. Despite rainy forecasts, we embrace the misty coastal weather, ready for a slower-paced day exploring Sitka independently on foot.

🐟 Sitka Marina & “Cyber Boats”
Strolling along Sitka’s marina, we marvel at the modern metal fishing boats—dubbed “cyber boats”—which contrast with the older traditional vessels. The dramatic tidal shifts (up to five metres!) impress us as we discuss local fishing, particularly the popular halibut expeditions ($700-800/day).

🌧️ Rainy Day Hike & Totem Trails at Sitka National Historical Park
Sam braves the horizontal rain at Sitka National Historical Park, home to stunning coastal trails and a remarkable collection of beautifully preserved totem poles. Despite getting thoroughly drenched, this becomes one of our favourite hikes in Alaska, with lush rainforest and dramatic ocean views.

🏛️ Sitka’s Rich History at the Visitor Centre Museum
Escaping the rain, we dive into Sitka’s fascinating history at the Visitor Centre Museum ($5 admission). From Indigenous heritage and Russian colonization to becoming Alaska’s first capital and later transitioning to American territory, this small museum covers Sitka’s emotional and historical highlights—including the poignant story of residents during the transfer from Russia to the United States.

🌲 Sitka Walking Tour & Russian Christmas Store
Sam continues his rainy exploration, discovering historic Russian architecture and a charming Russian Christmas ornament store—a delightful find with beautifully handcrafted decorations. Sitka’s compact downtown charms us despite the wet weather.

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