Museum culture in Ketchikan!

Mendenhall Glacier

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to the heart of Alaska"s natural beauty with a day trip to the Mendenhall Glacier, a stunningly accessible ice mass located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau.

Getting There: Start your adventure from Juneau, easily reached by air or sea. From downtown, you can catch a public bus, rent a car, or join a guided tour that heads directly to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Opt for the shuttle service that regularly runs during tourist season for a convenient option.

Morning - Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center: Begin at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, opened in 1962 as the first Forest Service visitor center in the country. Delve into interactive exhibits that detail the glacier"s geology and the surrounding ecosystem. Don’t miss the short film that showcases breathtaking aerial views and the evolutionary journey of the glacier. Peer through the telescopes on the observatory deck for a closer look at both the glacier and the local wildlife, including bears and bald eagones.

Midday - Nugget Falls Trail: Gear up for a moderate walk by taking the Nugget Falls Trail, a 2-mile round-trip that offers excellent vantage points. The trail culminates at the roaring Nugget Falls, cascading beside the glacier. The juxtaposition of ice and cascading water makes for stunning photographs.

Afternoon - Photo Point Trail and Steep Creek: Stroll the easy, wheelchair-accessible Photo Point Trail winding along Mendenhall Lake for iconic views of the glacier face. Next, visit Steep Creek where, depending on the season, you might spot salmon spawning and bears fishing.

Tips: Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes. The weather can change quickly. Check the visitor center for ranger-led walks and talks for deeper insights into this majestic landscape.

Your tour to Mendenhall Glacier isn"t just a walk through a natural wonder, but a journey through geological time, rich with educational encounters and breathtaking scenery.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Mt. Roberts Tramway

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling cultural adventure with a visit to Juneau"s iconic Mt. Roberts Tramway, an experience that combines Alaskan natural beauty with rich native heritage. Start your journey in the heart of downtown Juneau, where the tramway station is conveniently situated just steps away from the cruise ship docks at 490 S. Franklin Street. Purchase your ticket and ascend 1,800 feet above sea level in a smooth, scenic gondola ride that offers panoramic views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and the stunning Chilkat Mountains.

Upon reaching the Mountain House at the top of Mt. Roberts, step into the Chilkat Theater for a complimentary short film that delves into the fascinating Tlingit culture and the diverse ecosystems of Southeast Alaska. Next, explore the Nature Center to learn more about the local flora and fauna you"ll encounter along the mountain"s trails.

A highlight of your visit will be the Juneau Raptor Center’s Bald Eagle Display, where you can meet a rescued bald eagle up close and learn about the center"s rehabilitation efforts. This encounter is not only a photo opportunity but a chance to appreciate Alaska’s commitment to wildlife preservation.

Don"t miss the Raven Eagle Gifts & Gallery, a treasure trove of Native Alaskan art where you can admire and purchase authentic crafts, from hand-carved totem poles to intricate beadwork, all of which support local artists.

Before descending, take a moment to stroll along one of the well-marked hiking trails on Mt. Roberts. The Alpine Loop Trail, for instance, offers a gentle walk with interpretive signs that enrich your understanding of the area"s natural history.

To conclude your visit, dine at the Timberline Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy a meal featuring local seafood while soaking in the awe-inspiring views of Juneau and beyond. The Mt. Roberts Tramway operates daily during the summer tourist season, making it a must-visit for any museum and culture enthusiast exploring Alaska.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Herbert Glacier

Why Visit?

Experience the majestic allure of Herbert Glacier, nestled just 28 miles north of Juneau, Alaska. This day-long adventure combines stunning natural scenery with enriching cultural insights, perfect for those eager to explore the great outdoors and delve into regional history.

Getting There

Begin your journey in Juneau. From here, you can opt for a guided tour which often includes round-trip transportation. Alternatively, rent a car and drive north along the scenic Glacier Highway to the Herbert Glacier trailhead. The route is well-marked and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Morning – Herbert Glacier Trail

The adventure starts early with a hike along the Herbert Glacier Trail. This 5.5-mile (one-way) trail is moderately challenging, meandering through lush rainforests and past streams filled with salmon. As you walk, keep an ear out for the calls of local birds and an eye open for wildlife; this area is home to bears, eagles, and many other species.

Facts & Insights

As you approach the glacier, notice the striking changes in vegetation and terrain. This is a prime example of glacial morphology. The glacier itself, part of the Juneau Icefield, has been a subject of scientific study for decades, offering insights into climate change and glacial dynamics.

Afternoon – The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

Post-hike, drive to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Although a different glacier, the center provides extensive exhibits on the region"s glacial history, flora and fauna, and the indigenous Tlingit culture. Engage with interactive displays, watch a captivating documentary about the icefield, and if timing allows, attend a ranger-led talk.

Evening – Return to Juneau

Conclude your day with a leisurely drive back to Juneau. Reflect on the profound natural and cultural histories you"ve encountered, perhaps over a hearty meal at one of the city"s local eateries, specializing in fresh seafood and regional delicacies.

This museum tour to Herbert Glacier is not just a journey through stunning landscapes but an educational odyssey into the geological and cultural tapestry of Southeast Alaska.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Why Visit?

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Museum Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Gustavus

Begin your adventure by flying into Gustavus, the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. From here, a short ride by either taxi or hotel shuttle will bring you to the park’s visitor center. Check into one of the charming lodges nearby, ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this pristine area.

Day 2: The Visitor Center and Tribal House

Start your day at the Glacier Bay Visitor Center. Nestled at Bartlett Cove, the center offers fascinating exhibits on the park"s glacial history, flora, fauna, and the indigenous Tlingit culture. Make sure to attend the morning ranger talk for an insightful overview.

Next, visit the Huna Tribal House, Xunaa Shuká Hít. This beautifully crafted clan house represents a vital cultural reconnection for the Huna Tlingit with their ancestral homeland. Learn about the intricate totem poles, house posts, and the compelling stories they tell. Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the artistry and significance of this site.

Day 3: Glacier and Wildlife Viewing

Embark on a boat tour directly from Bartlett Cove. This is not only a chance to witness the majestic tidewater glaciers but also an opportunity to spot humpback whales, sea otters, and seals in their natural habitats. The onboard naturalists provide valuable insights into how the park"s ecosystems are interwoven with local cultural traditions.

Day 4: Departure

On your final morning, take a leisurely stroll along the Forest Loop Trail back at Bartlett Cove, enjoying the serene environment and reflecting on the enriching experiences of the past days. Depart from Gustavus with a deeper appreciation of Glacier Bay’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

This itinerary promises a profound connection not only with nature but also with the enduring legacies of the native cultures of Southeast Alaska.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Last Chance Mining Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through Alaska"s rich mining history at the Last Chance Mining Museum, nestled in the scenic basin of Gold Creek in Juneau. This unique museum, housed in the historic compressor building of the former Alaska Juneau Gold Mining Company, offers a profound glimpse into the gold rush era that shaped much of Alaska"s early development.

Getting There

The Last Chance Mining Museum is located at 1001 Basin Rd, Juneau, AK. For visitors staying in downtown Juneau, the museum is easily accessible by car or local bus services, with a scenic drive just under 10 minutes. For the more adventurous, consider a refreshing hike or bike ride along the Perseverance Trail, adding a touch of nature’s charm to your cultural excursion.

Visiting the Museum

Upon entering, you"ll be greeted by an impressive array of artifacts, including one of the world’s largest air compressors and various mining equipment that has been preserved with care. The museum operates from May through September, making it an ideal summer getaway. It"s wise to allocate around 1-2 hours for your visit to thoroughly explore the exhibits and the surrounding natural beauty.

Highlights and Facts

- The museum"s location in the compressor building, which dates back to the 1910s, provides an authentic backdrop to the artifacts and photographs documenting the life of miners and the engineering feats of the past.

- Don’t miss the outdoor exhibits featuring the old mine train and the trails leading to original mining sites. These spots offer fantastic photo opportunities and the chance to physically touch a piece of Alaska’s gold mining history.

- The museum is managed by the Gastineau Channel Historical Society, which offers guided tours filled with anecdotes and lesser-known facts, providing a deeper understanding of Juneau’s mining heritage.

Finish your visit by stopping at the quaint gift shop for souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alaska’s golden past, ensuring your memories of the Last Chance Mining Museum linger long after your departure.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.