Mendenhall Glacier Kayak & Salmon Bake

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT
Mendenhall Glacier / Mendenhall Lake
This year marks the first time that guided kayak trips have been permitted to explore Mendenhall Lake. This intimate experience explores the waters of the proglacial lake that cuts through the Mendenhall Valley. From the seat of a kayak, get up close to thundering Nugget Falls, glaciers and abundant wildlife, such as eagles, salmon, goats and bears. Surrounded by views of the Tongass National Forest and dramatic Mendenhall Glacier, your guided route makes the most of the ever-changing natural splendor.

Gold Creek Salmon Bake
Nestled in the southeastern Alaska rainforest, indulge in an authentic Alaska culinary experience that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet of salmon, freshly roasted over an alder wood fire and served with plenty of fixings, dessert and even a treat from a marshmallow-roasting fire pit. Local folk artists provide musical accompaniment. Take a nature walk to Salmon Creek waterfall, explore the shaft from the historic Wagner Mine, try your hand at panning for gold and observe a Tlingit master carver craft totem poles and silver trinkets.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Nature photographers will relish the opportunity to practice their craft as they glide along Mendenhall Lake. Keep your camera at the ready to photograph the abundant native wildlife found along its shores. After satiating your appetite at the salmon bake, venture to the Salmon Creek waterfall for lovely photographs and the opportunity to capture images of salmon spawning. Pose with a Tlingit master carver and take a selfie at the historic Wagner Mine or while panning for gold.

SHOPPING
Pop into a small, replica trading post to shop for souvenirs at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake venue.

SNACK/LUNCH
A snack is served on the beach at Mendenhall Lake after the kayak excursion.

The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is a traditional, all-you-can-eat feast featuring alder-grilled salmon, parmesan chicken, cheesy au gratin potatoes, baked beans with reindeer sausage, wild-rice pilaf, corn bread, clam chowder, other sides, salads and blueberry cake. And don't forget to save a little room for a treat from the marshmallow-roasting pit. Water, lemonade, coffee, tea, apple cider and hot chocolate are available. Wine, beer or soda can be purchased at the bar.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
The city of Juneau is surrounded by mountain ranges and the Gastineau Channel. A scenic 20-minute drive from port brings you to the kayak dock at Mendenhall Lake, which ribbons through the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area as well as the Tongass National Forest. A two-hour paddle reveals breathtaking natural scenery, an abundance of wildlife and dramatic waterfalls. A narrated van transfer then brings you to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, situated in the southeastern Alaska rainforest, for an authentic Alaska meal in an open-air setting.

Special Notes:

Please dress warmly and bring an extra pair of sock. Participants should be in good physical condition and able to paddle for 2 hours. Guests must weigh at least 40 lbs. and maximum weight is 275 lbs. based on waist size to fit in the kayak cockpit. Guests over 6'3" tall will not be able to use the rudders to steer and may be uncomfortable in the kayak due to limited leg room. Soft drinks, beer and wine are available for purchase at the salmon bake.

Provided: Raingear, rubber boots, life jacket

Meal: Wild Alaska salmon, parmesan chicken, au gratin potatoes, baked beans with reindeer sausage, rice pilaf, salads, cornbread, blueberry cake, hot apple cider coffee, tea and lemonade. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children 13 to 17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate without a parent or guardian.