Welcome to Juneau, Alaska, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich cultural heritage. Nestled among towering mountains and pristine coastlines, Juneau offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and Indigenous history. In Juneau, every adventure is a story waiting to be told. From whale watching on the Inside Passage to deep diving into the cultural artifacts and artwork of the Alaska Native culture, this captivating destination offers endless opportunities for discovery.
This story was created in partnership with Travel Juneau.
Photo by Austin Hawkins
Indigenous Enrichment
Start your Juneau journey by immersing yourself in the unique traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples at the Sealaska Heritage Institute. Located in the Walter Soboleff Building, a full-size clan house named Shuká Hít (Ancestor’s House) features hand-adzed cedar. The adjoining museum offers captivating exhibits, traditional artwork, and interpretive displays that bring the rich stories and enduring legacy of Southeast Alaska’s Native peoples to life.
Next, venture along the Kootéeyaa Deiyí (Totem Pole Trail), a cultural reclamation project supported by the Sealaska Heritage Institute. Twelve striking totem poles can be found along Juneau’s shoreline, with an additional eighteen to come soon. Take in the intricate carvings and symbolic motifs that adorn these towering monuments, each telling a cherished story of the clans that call Alaska home, both in the past and present.
Photo Courtesy Travel Juneau
River and Ice Exploration
For a truly unforgettable experience, set out on the Taku Glacier Lodge Feast & Five Glacier Tour. This three-hour flight will give you the eagle’s-eye view of the Juneau Icefield, made up of five glaciers including the largest, the Taku Glacier. Cruise above the vibrant waters of the Taku River aboard the de Havilland Otter floatplane, taking in panoramic views of lush forests and rugged wilderness. Arriving at the Taku Glacier Lodge, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a feast featuring Alaskan King Salmon and local specialties. Enjoy storytelling of the 100-year-old lodge’s history, join a guided nature walk, or simply kick back and soak up the serenity that this retreat will surely provide.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Above & Beyond Alaska offers a pack rafting excursion that promises a unique and exciting way to experience glaciers up close. Paddle through the ancient landscape of the Norris Glacier, navigating through the ice fields by river. Led by experienced guides, you’ll discover hidden waterways and secret coves and possibly encounter wildlife along the way! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned adventurer, pack rafting offers an exhilarating way to experience the untamed beauty of Juneau’s scenic wilderness.
Photo Courtesy Travel Juneau
Along the Coast
Continue your journey with a visit to the Sentinel Lighthouse, a historic landmark that has guided ships safely through the waters of Lynn Canal for over a century. Perched atop a rugged cliff overlooking the sea, this iconic structure offers sweeping views of the surrounding coastline and distant mountains. Join a tour through Juneau Lighthouse Tours to learn about the fascinating history of maritime navigation in Alaska, and keep your eyes peeled for the telltale spouts and breaches of humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, and other marine life.
Top off your adventure with a 4.5-mile hike to the summit of Mt. Roberts, where breathtaking views await. Start your trek on a scenic trail that winds through lush forests and alpine meadows, ascending to the coastal ridgelines above the city of Juneau. About halfway to the top, you’ll reach the upper station for the Goldbelt Mt. Roberts Tram, where you can ride back down to the bottom. If you decide to continue to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of glaciers, fjords, and snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a moment to appreciate this pristine wilderness and reflect on the unforgettable experiences that have defined your journey through Juneau.
