Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Ketchikan!

Mendenhall Glacier

Why Visit?

Explore the Majestic Mendenhall Glacier: A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Embark on a spectacular journey to the enchanting Mendenhall Glacier, a gem nestled in Juneau, Alaska. This itinerary ensures that wheelchair and mobile scooter users experience awe-inspiring views and accessible adventures.

Getting There

Start your glacier exploration by catching an accessible shuttle from Juneau. These shuttles are equipped with lifts and provide a comfortable ride to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which is about 12 miles from downtown Juneau. Advance reservations for the shuttle can enhance convenience.

At the Glacier

Upon arriving at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, delve into the world of glaciology. The visitor center is fully accessible, featuring ramps and elevators. Through its large glass windows, marvel at the glacier"s grandeur. Don"t miss the engaging exhibits and a short film that narrates the glacier"s story and its ecological significance.

For a closer view, roll out to the Photo Point Trail, a paved, wheelchair-accessible path that offers stunning vistas of the glacier. This short trail leads to a viewpoint where the ice mass dominates the landscape, accompanied by the thunderous sound of Nugget Falls nearby.

Nugget Falls Trail

Though the trail to Nugget Falls is not paved, recent improvements have made the first section up to the Photo Point Trail junction smoother and more navigable for wheelchairs. Venture as far as you"re comfortable, and enjoy the refreshing mist from the powerful falls.

Wildlife and Flora

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife including black bears, beavers, and bald eagles. The area around the glacier also blooms with fireweed and lupine in the summer, adding dashes of color to the landscape.

Plan Your Visit

Before you go, check the current conditions and accessibility updates on the U.S. Forest Service website. The best months for visiting are May through September when the paths are generally clear of snow.

Experience Mendenhall Glacier’s sublime beauty and accessible wonders, making your visit a memorable, inclusive adventure.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Mt. Roberts Tramway

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking adventure to Juneau’s Mt. Roberts Tramway, an accessible gateway to stunning views and nature experiences, perfectly suited for those on wheelchairs or mobile scooters.

### Getting There:

Located conveniently near the cruise ship docks in downtown Juneau, the tramway is a short distance from most city center accommodations and easily reachable by taxi or a public bus that accommodates wheelchages. Once at the tram station, staff are available to assist with boarding the tram cars, which are fully accessible and equipped with wide doors and ample space for mobility devices.

### Attraction Overview:

Begin your journey with a smooth ascent in the tram car as you rise 1,800 feet above the sea level to the Mountain House, offering panoramic views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and the lush Tongass National Forest. The ride itself provides a thrilling 6-minute journey where you can soak in the majestic landscape through large, clear windows.

### On the Mountain:

Once atop, explore the network of wheelchair-accessible trails like the Nature Center Loop, a gentle, well-paved path that immerses you in the tranquil beauty of the subalpine ecosystem. Here, interpretive signs provide insights into the local flora and fauna.

Don’t miss visiting the Mountain House, which features large viewing platforms designed to accommodate everyone. Inside, you’ll find the Raven Eagle Gifts and Gallery, showcasing exquisite native artwork, and the Timberline Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy local seafood while overlooking the stunning vistas.

### Interesting Facts:

- The Mt. Roberts Tramway opened in 1996 and is one of the most vertical tramways in the world.

- The area is home to an array of wildlife, including bald eagles and black bears, which sometimes are spotted by lucky visitors.

### Conclusion:

A visit to Mt. Roberts Tramway offers not just a scenic retreat but also an accessible adventure that brings you closer to Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, all within the comfort of your mobility device.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Herbert Glacier

Why Visit?

Experience the serene beauty of Herbert Glacier, nestled in the majestic landscape of Juneau, Alaska, on an accessible and unforgettable wheelchair-friendly adventure.

Getting There

Your journey commences in Juneau, where you can board a specially equipped shuttle from your accommodation to the base of Herbert Glacier Trail. These shuttles are designed for comfort and ease, accommodating both wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Herbert Glacier Trail

Upon arrival, prepare to traverse the 4.6-mile Herbert Glacier accessible path. The trail is well-maintained with a firm surface and gentle grades suitable for wheelchairs and scooters, providing a stress-free experience amidst nature’s grandeur. As you advance, take in the lush forest canopy, the soothing sounds of the Herbert River, and spot local wildlife, which may include bald eagles and black bears.

At the Glacier

The trail culminates at a stunning viewpoint offering breathtaking views of Herbert Glacier— a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Feel the crisp glacial air and learn about the glacier’s fascinating dynamics. The area around the viewpoint has been made accessible to ensure that everyone can enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery.

Interesting Facts

- Herbert Glacier is a dynamic body of ice that actively shapes the landscape.

- The trail is named after the Herbert River, which was likely named during the late-19th-century gold rush.

Safety and Comfort

- Always check the weather before your trip and dress appropriately in layers.

- The trail offers several rest stops equipped with benches, where you can pause and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Returning

Once you’ve soaked in the serene environment and captured your moments, the shuttle will escort you back to Juneau, leaving you enriched with the tranquility and grandeur of Alaskan wilderness, all made accessible right from your seat.

Embark on this remarkable exploration of Herbert Glacier, where accessibility meets the wild, untamed beauty of Alaska.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Why Visit?

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve - Wheelchair Accessible Adventure

Arrival and Orientation

Begin your journey to Glacier Bay by flying into Gustavus, the gateway to the park, accessible via Juneau. Once in Gustavus, stay at one of the accessible lodges or the Glacier Bay Lodge, which offers wheelchair-friendly accommodations and services. Here, you can arrange for a wheelchair-accessible shuttle to take you to the park"s visitor center.

Day 1: Visitor Center and Bartlett Cove

Start at the Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center, located upstairs in the Glacier Bay Lodge in Bartlett Cove. An accessible elevator ensures easy access. Immerse yourself in the interpretive displays and engaging films about the park"s history and natural environment. Join a ranger-led program, many of which are accessible, to learn about the local flora and fauna. Wheelchair-accessible boardwalks near the lodge allow you to explore the lush rainforest and the beachfront, where you might spot sea otters and humpback whales offshore.

Day 2: Glacier Cruising

Book a spot on a wheelchair-accessible boat tour, a highlight of any visit. These tours provide a close-up view of the park’s spectacular tidewater glaciers and the opportunity to witness dramatic calving events. The boats are equipped with accessible viewing decks, ensuring you won’t miss the awe-inspiring scenery of the Fairweather Mountain range and the chance to see wildlife like seals, orcas, and eagles.

Additional Tips

- Plan your visit between May and September for optimal weather and accessibility.

- Always check ahead with services and amenities to confirm current accessibility options.

- Don’t forget to bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and a camera to capture the majestic landscapes of Glacier Smith & Preserve.

Engage with nature in comfort and style, knowing Glacier Bay’s breathtaking beauty is accessible for all to enjoy.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Last Chance Mining Museum

Why Visit?

Discover Juneau"s Rich Mining Heritage: Wheelchair-Friendly Guide to Last Chance Mining Museum

Embark on a captivating journey into Juneau"s gold mining past, tailored for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. Your adventure begins at the historic Last Chance Mining Museum, nestled in the scenic basin of the Gold Creek Valley.

Getting There

The most accessible way to reach the museum is by taxi or a rented accessible van. There’s designated accessible parking available, making it convenient for those in wheelchairs or mobility scooters to visit.

Tour the Museum

Start your tour at the entrance where you’ll find ramps ensuring smooth access. Inside, you"ll encounter an extraordinary collection of artifacts from Juneau"s gold mining era, all displayed in wheelchair-accessible exhibits. Highlights include an original locomotive and massive air compressors used in mining operations. The museum’s wide aisles and lack of stairs allow for easy navigation.

Engaging Exhibits

Don’t miss the interactive displays about the mining process and the daily lives of miners. The museum is housed in the historic compressor building of the Alaska Juneau Gold Mining Company, providing a genuine backdrop to your exploration. Captioned video presentations are available to enrich your understanding.

Outdoor Exploration

Outside, a well-maintained gravel path leads to a viewing platform where you can admire the remnants of the old mining operations set against the lush forest backdrop. The path is firm enough for wheelchairs and offers a breath of fresh Alaskan air along with picturesque views.

Rest and Reflect

Conclude your visit by resting at the picnic area adjacent to the museum. It"s a perfect spot to reflect on the rich history you"ve just absorbed. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available to ensure comfort throughout your visit.

Plan Your Visit

The museum is open from May through September, offering ample opportunity to explore during the warmer months. Admission fees are modest, and care is taken to accommodate all visitors. For a seamless experience, it’s advisable to confirm current opening hours and any special events directly with the museum before your visit.

Embark on this enlightening journey where history and accessibility converge, right in the heart of Juneau’s golden heritage.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.