Top 8 Activities to Experience in Juneau

Are you prepared for the adventure of a lifetime in the wilderness? Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is a thrilling stop on your Dinogo cruise journey that promises excitement. From dog sledding across stunning landscapes to soaring over majestic glaciers, discover the top 8 activities to enjoy during your cruise to Juneau.

Wilderness Expeditions

1. Discover the Juneau Icefield

A visit to Mendenhall Glacier takes you deep into the Juneau Icefield. Humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea lions, bald eagles, bears, and mountain goats inhabit the area surrounding the 13-mile-long glacier, so be ready with your camera for some unforgettable wildlife encounters.

For added thrill, you can board a water jet-powered catamaran specially designed for wildlife observation. Alternatively, consider a seaplane adventure for a stunning aerial perspective. Experiencing glaciers from above is one of the best ways to appreciate the vastness of Juneau’s breathtaking landscapes.

2. Experience Whale Watching

Eager to witness a giant humpback whale leaping out of the deep blue ocean? On this whale watching tour, you have a 99% chance of spotting whales among the many fascinating creatures that inhabit Alaska’s waters.

A whale watching tour offers you front-row access to breathtaking action, all from the comfort of specially designed vessels made for intimate viewings. During your journey, you can expect to spot orcas, sea lions, seals, and seabirds, complemented by insights from knowledgeable naturalist guides.

3. Explore the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area

Venturing into the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area means navigating through glacial-blue waters, accompanied by the sounds of cracking ice and bird songs. As you approach the renowned Sawyer Glaciers, you’ll witness chunks of ice calving off and crashing into the sea below, creating a dramatic, thunderous spectacle.

You’ll enjoy this stunning display from the safety and comfort of a waterjet-powered boat as you navigate a 30-mile fjord, taking in breathtaking views of cliffs soaring 4,000 feet into the sky, along with the chance to spot powerful waterfalls, seals, bald eagles, and migratory shorebirds.

Thrilling Adventures

4. Zipline Through the Forest

On a family cruise, treat the kids to the ultimate adventure at the Eaglecrest Ski Area. The fun begins in the Tongass National Forest, where experienced guides will harness you up, preparing you to soar through the trees. How does it work? You’ll zip along a series of lines that whisk you through the forest, landing on treehouse platforms, where you can pause and listen to guides share fascinating facts about Alaska.

The grand finale is crossing a suspension bridge over a rushing stream teeming with spawning salmon. But the excitement doesn’t end there. There’s also a lodge where you can try your hand at axe-throwing and visit the souvenir shop for some retail therapy in Juneau.

5. Experience Dog Sledding

Have you heard of “mushers”? You’ll learn all about them when their beautiful huskies take you on an adventure through the wilderness! A dog sledding experience offers an exclusive look at a musher’s camp, giving you insight into the life of a dog sled driver. Then, prepare for an exhilarating ride along wooded trails in the rainforest, racing through spruce and hemlock trees. You’ll also have the chance to snuggle with some adorable four-legged companions!

6. Enjoy Whitewater Rafting

If you’ve never gone whitewater rafting, make your first experience unforgettable amidst breathtaking glaciers and towering peaks. A rafting adventure on the Mendenhall River is ideal for beginners, featuring moderate rapids that deliver excitement without too many spills. Most of the journey allows you to float down the river, with ample chances to spot wildlife along the banks, guided by an expert. If you're an experienced rafter, you can choose an unguided paddle raft to test your skills on the rapids.

Heritage and Culture

7. Try Your Hand at Gold Panning

If you’re a history enthusiast wondering what to do in Juneau, prepare to immerse yourself in the thrilling gold rush era with a tour of Gold Creek. A guide dressed in 19th-century attire will lead you in the footsteps of early prospectors Joe Juneau and Richard Harris. You’ll have the chance to search for gold yourself while panning along the banks of this historic creek.

You can also put on a hard hat and explore the Alaska Gastineau Mill, where you can navigate an underground conveyor tunnel. This experience will give you insight into the mining lifestyle in what was once the largest gold-producing mill in the world.

8. Hunt for Salmon

When it comes to food in Juneau, salmon tops the list! There are numerous ways to savor wild Alaskan salmon, including a visit to the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery. From late June to September, you can observe adult salmon spawning, and the visitor center features educational exhibits, aquariums, and a gift shop.

If you’re eager to catch your own salmon, join a fishing charter with a local captain who will teach you the best techniques and take you to the prime fishing spots. However, you absolutely must experience an Alaskan outdoor salmon bake. Grilled over an open fire and typically served with Tongass wild rice pilaf, salads, and cornbread, the aroma alone will make your mouth water!

Please note: Activities on board, shore excursions, and dining choices may differ by ship and destination.