Attractions Nearby Juneau, Day Trips and Excursions

(Juneau, Alaska - AK, USA)

Enjoying a very attractive setting and being close to some of Alaska's most spectacular scenery means that Juneau is certainly a good place to base yourself if day trips are likely to be on your agenda.

Juneau is also close to the attractions of British Coloumbia, Canada, meaning that you may well like to consider hopping across the border.

It is worth noting that due to its relatively remote location and surrounding mountainous scenery, getting in and out of Alaska's state capital is restricted to the Alaska Marine Highway ferry service, as well as flights from the local airport. However, Juneau's proximity to the Inner Passage does mean that cruises to outlying attractions are always popular with adventurous tourists looking for the very best possible day trips available.

General Information

Many tourists find that the recreational attractions of Juneau, along with the plentiful camping sites, are the big draw. Log cabins make a good alternative to tents, with those in the Tongass National Forest being particularly in demand.

Excursions to the southerly Admiralty Island are recommended, especially since it is so close. The majority of this huge island is covered by the expansive protected wilderness named the Admiralty Island National Monument, which covers in excess of 38,000 hectares / 93,900 acres and is called home by numerous native wildlife attractions, such as bald eagles and brown bears.

Kayakers will enjoy a trip around the two neighboring glaciers, named the Dawes (Endicott Arm) and the Sawyer (Tracy Arm) glaciers, both of which are of epic proportions. The glaciers and their deep-water fjords are to be found approximately 50 miles / 80 km to the south of Juneau, with these stunning attractions being reachable via cruise ships sailing along the Stephens Passage, on the eastern side of Admiralty Island.

During the summer months in Juneau, many small boats offer trips around the coastline and glaciers, although when the colder winter months arrive, with their reduced daylight hours, the opportunities and demand for day trips greatly decreases.