appropriate footwear

Question

Good morning! We have chosen Mendenhall Glacier as our excursion from Juneau. Don't want to pack more than we need. Do you think standard tennis/running shoes will be sufficient? Or do I need to pack our hiking boots?

Thanks so much

Answer

For a visit to Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau, footwear choice depends on the type of activities you plan to do and the conditions of the trails. For most casual visitors, standard tennis or running shoes can be sufficient, especially if you plan to stay on the main trails and viewing areas near the Visitor Center.

However, there are a few considerations:

The main Nugget Falls trail is well-maintained, mostly flat, and short (about 1.5 miles round trip). Tennis shoes or running shoes with good grip are usually fine for this trail.
If you plan to explore additional trails, like the East Glacier Trail or less-maintained paths around the glacier, hiking boots or trail shoes are recommended. These areas can be muddy, slippery, and uneven.
Weather can be wet and unpredictable in Alaska. Waterproof shoes or at least shoes that dry quickly are advantageous, especially in May–September when rainfall is common.

Other tips for your glacier visit:

Bring warm layers, even in summer; temperatures near the glacier can be much cooler than Juneau itself.
If you plan to get closer to the ice or venture onto rocky areas, boots with ankle support are safer.
Consider bringing a small daypack with water and snacks, since the trails, while short, can still be tiring for some visitors.

In summary, for a standard day excursion sticking to main viewpoints and Nugget Falls trail, tennis or running shoes will suffice. If you anticipate hiking longer trails, navigating muddy or uneven terrain, or simply want extra support and waterproofing, lightweight hiking boots are a better choice. You can likely get by with your regular shoes, but boots provide more versatility and comfort for off-trail exploration.

appropriate footwear

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