I love the hiking trails around Juneau. Moving from the east coast of the USA, elevation was a brand new thing for me and turns out I like it. I’m a simple hiker, generally heading out on trails that will take a mid to full day and not one to try anything too treacherous (I do not like feeling as if I’ll fall off the side of the mountain). However, I am a view seeker! The higher the elevation, the better the view (sometimes!).

After hiking Mount Roberts yesterday, it occurred to me that I have not pulled together a post dedicated to hiking in Juneau. What a great day to do so!

In this post, I’ll share the following:

What I wear and what I pack
My favorite hiking trails based out of Juneau
Considerations for different times of the season

My goal is to remove any minor hesitations that you may be feeling about heading to a new trail or starting your own hiking adventures. Also, if you are visiting this area for any length of time and/or just enjoy hiking, these trails are ones that I would recommend (there are a lot of trails in this neck of the woods!). Hiking in Juneau is an incredible way to experience the beauty of Alaska, from lush rainforest paths to breathtaking mountain peaks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or visiting Alaska for the first time, these trails offer unforgettable experiences.

What I Wear When I Hike Near Juneau, Alaska

I always start with a top and bottom base layer. If I’m hiking in the winter, both base layers will be made with wool. If I’m hiking in the summer, then I’ll have a moisture-wicking, thin layer on (some tops will help deflect the sun). Having a base layer makes me feel a little more protected and covered for the hike ahead.

Next, I’ll add hiking pants that have zippered pockets. It’s my strong recommendation to have pockets that zip when you ascend/descend mountains. As you step over tree roots or scramble up rocks, you’re not always perpendicular to the ground like you would be if you were walking down the street, so items in your pockets are more apt to fall out. I use pants that are water-resistant, as sometimes I’m hiking through fog or a light drizzle both common in Alaska’s temperate rainforest.

On my top half, I’ll add another layer on top of my under layer. If it’s chilly out, I try to stick to some type of wool. If it’s warmer out, this layer may be a half zip or even a tank top (just depends on how warm and where I’m hiking). If you are exposed to the sun, consider finding a layer with sun protection.

In the cooler months, I’ll add a vest. I find that the vest keeps my core warm, isn’t too bulky, can be easily packed, and ensures my arms are free to move and help with balance.

I add one final layer, and that’s a light, semi-breathable rain jacket. I love these light rain jackets for multiple reasons:

Keeps the heat in: At the start of the hike, I tend to be chilly. Once I start working up a sweat, this layer traps in my heat (and I eventually take it off).
Breaks the wind: There’s nothing worse than ascending a mountain, standing at the top above the alpine line, and getting blasted with wind with no protection. This light layer is incredibly protective in the wind.
Keeps you dry: Towards the bottom of the mountain, there can be fog. In Juneau, since a lot of our land is a part of the Tongass National Forest, we get a lot of rain and drizzle. This outer layer helps keep me dry.

Each layer that I’ve recommended can be easily folded and added to a day pack if you get too hot.

I always include a small emergency kit when I go. You never know when you’ll need it, and you also never know if you’ll meet someone along the way who will need it.

Safety Gear for Hiking in Alaska

Garmin InReach: This is a must for safety. Not every location will have cell service; you may find yourself in a situation where emergency help is needed. Take a Garmin InReach—it can help save your life or someone else’s.

Since my hikes are generally a full or half-day long, I take along a couple of snacks and water. Something to replenish electrolytes and keep you hydrated. I generally tend to take:

1. Some type of jerky (protein)

2. Some type of energy or granola bar

3. Seltzer water (just my preference vs. tap water!)

When hiking to a higher elevation or towards the beginning/end of a season when the trails can be muddy, wet, snowy, or icy, I tend to bring mini spikes or crampons. They are light enough to carry with you in case you need them. There’s nothing worse than hiking and feeling like you have zero traction as you step. In fact, I would encourage you not to keep hiking when you sense a loss of connection with the ground. Take these with you on each hike—even if you don’t use them each time, when you do, you will be thankful you had them.

2. My Favorite Hiking Trails Around Juneau

Over the years, I’ve found trails that I seem to frequent more often than not. There are some that I’ve truly enjoyed riding my fat tire bike on, while others I lean towards hiking on. The three trails listed below are somewhat easy to moderate (Mount Roberts is the toughest of the three).

Mount Roberts Trail:

This trail starts at the back corner of the city of Juneau and heads up to the top of Mount Roberts (where the tramway is). It’s a steeper hike and you’ll gain about 1,500 ft in elevation from the start to the tramway. You’ll get peaks and views along the way but the true view is at the top of the mountain when you can see over the Gastineau Channel and the surrounding Alaska wilderness. This trail has quite a few rocks and roots so make sure you bring hiking poles (if you use them) and take your time. I would avoid this trail if you have poor ankles. This is a really well known trail around Juneau so it is easy to follow (as many people have made the hike up / down).

Auke Lake Trail:

This trail starts by the University of Southeast Alaska. There’s a parking lot to the left of Auke Lake (if you’re facing the lake). Start by walking along side the road and immediately after the road, you will see the trail open on the left. It’s about 1.5 miles long (give or take) and fairly flat. There are some places where the trail inclines slightly but not by much. This path is well maintained and you’ll often bump into several others.

East Glacier Trail

After parking in one of the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center’s parking lots, cross the street to find the trail head. There are several lower level trails that all combine with each other - you’ll follow signs for the East Glacier Trail. This trail is a loop and it’s about 3-4 miles long. When you hit the middle of the trail, there will be multiple sets of stairs for you to ascend (or descend depending on which way you’re going). The views on this trail are limited. When I first set out on this trail, I thought I would see awesome views of the glacier or the falls but unfortunately, I did not. This trail is fairly maintained and I always see others hiking along the way. It’s a popular trail for trail runners. You’ll end near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

3. Considerations for Different Times of the Season

As the weather shifts and turns, so do the experiences on the trails. During the springtime, keep an eye out for news about avalanches, rock slides, or mudslides.

If it has been raining for a while, the trails will be muddy, which will make your traction tough (& dangerous). Most trails that I have been on get pretty slick after multiple days of rain. Tread carefully.

There you have it! A few thought starters and recommendations for trails around Juneau, Alaska. Whether you're an experienced hiker or new to exploring Alaska’s wilderness, these trails offer unforgettable adventures and a true taste of what makes Alaska a hiker’s paradise.

What I Wear When I Hike Near Juneau, Alaska