Mendenhall Glacier
Alaska
Mendenhall Glacier, located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Alaska, is a magnificent 13.6-mile-long glacier flowing from the Juneau Icefield into Mendenhall Lake. It is part of the federally protected 5,815-acre Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area within the Tongass National Forest. The glacier has been extensively studied since 1942 by the Juneau Icefield Research Program, revealing a significant retreat of over 2.5 miles since 1500 due to climate warming and iceberg calving. This retreat has led to the formation and growth of Mendenhall Lake, which supports a unique aquatic ecosystem including several salmon species and trout. Periodic glacial floods from the nearby Suicide Basin have occasionally impacted the area, notably causing damage in 2023. The glacier's Tlingit names, Áakʼw Tʼáak Sítʼ and formerly Sitaantaago, reflect its cultural importance to indigenous peoples. Despite ongoing retreat, climatic variations may temporarily stabilize or slightly advance the glacier, although long-term warming threatens its persistence. The uncovering of ancient tree stumps beneath the glacier provides valuable insights into the region's ecological history. Visitors are drawn to the glacier's breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and educational opportunities at the nearby visitor center.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Mendenhall Glacier is during the summer months when weather conditions are milder and trails are accessible. Visitors are advised to check for updates on glacial flood risks, especially from Suicide Basin, and to consider purchasing tickets or parking passes in advance during peak tourist season. Guided tours and ranger programs can enhance the experience. Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear due to variable weather. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and groups. Early morning visits are recommended for fewer crowds and better photographic lighting.
Faits intéressants
- •Mendenhall Glacier has retreated more than 2.5 miles since 1500.
- •The glacier feeds Mendenhall Lake, a nursery for salmon and trout species.
- •Ancient tree stumps up to 2,350 years old have been uncovered beneath the glacier.
- •Periodic glacial floods from Suicide Basin have caused notable damage downstream, including in 2023.
- •It is part of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States.
Histoire
Originally known by the Tlingit as Sitaantaago or Áakʼw Tʼáak Sítʼ, the glacier was named Auke Glacier by John Muir in 1879 and renamed Mendenhall Glacier in 1891 after Thomas Corwin Mendenhall.
It has been monitored scientifically since 1942, documenting its significant retreat of over 2.5 miles since the mid-1700s Little Ice Age maximum.
The glacier's recession has shaped the local landscape, including the formation of Mendenhall Lake in 1929.
Recent decades have seen increased retreat linked to climate change, with the glacier face retreating from the lake since 2025.
The uncovering of ancient forest remnants beneath the glacier has provided important paleoecological data.
Guide du lieu
Mendenhall Glacier Face
The terminus of the glacier, where ice meets Mendenhall Lake, offers spectacular views of ice formations and calving events. It is a prime spot for photography and observing glacial dynamics.
Mendenhall Lake1929
Formed by the glacier's meltwater since 1929, this lake supports a diverse ecosystem including salmon, Dolly Varden char, and cutthroat trout. It is a focal point for wildlife observation and kayaking.
Visitor Center and Trails
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center offers educational exhibits, ranger programs, and trail access. Nearby hiking trails provide varying views of the glacier, forest, and wildlife, suitable for all skill levels.
