MendenhallGlacier.com
Hikers on a forest trail high above the wide, white tongue of Mendenhall Glacier

Hiking

West Glacier Trail

On the far side of the lake from the visitor center, this rugged trail climbs through rainforest to bare rock with sweeping views down onto the ice. It is the best hike at the glacier.

About the hike

The trail starts on the west side of Mendenhall Lake, near the campground, and climbs steadily through spruce and hemlock forest. Higher up, the trees thin out and the path crosses smooth rock polished by the glacier, with wide views over the ice and the lake.

Before you go

  • Wear sturdy boots with good grip. The upper rock slabs are slippery when wet.
  • Carry water, food, rain gear and a warm layer.
  • Tell someone your plans and check the weather before you start.
  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Do not go onto the glacier

The trail does not lead safely onto the ice. Glacier travel needs equipment and training: crevasses, unstable ice and sudden collapses have caused serious accidents. To walk on the glacier, book a guided trek or a helicopter landing.

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Two kayakers paddling on calm Mendenhall Lake with the glacier in the distance Lake

Mendenhall Lake

Icebergs on a young glacial lake

The lake formed in the last century as the glacier retreated, and it is still growing. Paddle it on a guided tour, or walk its shore from the campground and East Glacier trails.

Mendenhall Glacier and lake seen through spruce trees from the East Glacier Loop Hiking

East Glacier Loop

A forest loop with glacier views

A moderate loop of about three and a half miles from the visitor center, climbing through rainforest to viewpoints over the lake and the ice. Allow two to three hours.

Nugget Falls pouring into Mendenhall Lake below a steep forested mountainside Easy walk

Nugget Falls

A 377-foot waterfall beside the ice

A flat, easy walk of about two miles there and back from the visitor center ends on a gravel beach at the foot of the falls, with one of the best ground-level views of the glacier.

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