Juneau Alaska: Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls

Juneau's most popular attraction, as well as the most easily accessible Alaskan glacier, is the mighty and magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, located just 13 miles from downtown Juneau and only a few minutes from the airport. The Mendenhall is just one of the 38 major glaciers that flow from the Juneau Icefield, which covers more than 1,500 square miles. Visitors can drive to and park at the glacier, and ground tour companies offer trips as well. The U.S .Forest Service operates an excellent walk-up visitors center, and the picturesque .8 mile Nugget Falls trail leads from the center to the dramatic gushing falls adjacent to the magnificent glacier.