Juneau offers different ways to shape your trip: visit St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, a historic site; explore the cultural offerings of the Sealaska Heritage Institute; or enjoy the outdoors at Mount Roberts and Mendenhall Lake. Consider whether hiking, culture or water activities should define your stay.

Hiking trails for different levels

Juneau has more than 250 miles of hiking trails. The range extends from nature trails accessible to wheelchairs and strollers to challenging climbs. When choosing a trail, its specific profile matters; check distance details and trail conditions before your trip.

The Perseverance Trail is a 3-mile round trip to Silverbow Basin and follows Gold Creek into the valley behind downtown. The Mount Roberts Trail offers a different focus: it climbs through boreal forest, with increasingly better views and opportunities to spot wildlife. When comparing the trails, the Perseverance Trail is defined by its distance and destination, while the Mount Roberts Trail is defined by its forest climb and views. Wildlife sightings vary.

Culture and history in Juneau

St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church was built in 1893 in Juneau, Alaska. It is Alaska’s second-oldest surviving Russian Orthodox church and offers a tangible historical connection for travelers interested in the city’s cultural history.

The Sealaska Heritage Institute curates cultural exhibits at the Walter Soboleff Building. The building houses the True Southeast Experience, spaces for art performances and exhibitions, and the Shuká Hít clan house, clad in hand-hewn cedar. The cultural offerings therefore include both exhibitions and art performances, as well as this distinctive clan house.

The Sealaska Heritage Institute regularly hosts lectures, cultural performances and artist residencies. Dates vary, so check the program if you want to plan your trip around a specific event.

Getting there and outdoor experiences

Juneau is not connected to the continental highway system. So check transportation connections again when planning your arrival.

The Goldbelt Tram runs from near downtown up Mount Roberts in six minutes, reaching an elevation of about 1,800 feet. Operations may vary; check for your travel dates.

Kayaking on Mendenhall Lake takes paddlers past icebergs and Arctic nesting cliffs. The activity’s availability and rental providers may change. Check what options are available for your travel dates before your trip.

Find hotels in Juneau to match your travel interests

When looking for a hotel in Juneau, first decide what you want your trip to focus on: cultural history, hiking, or activities at Mount Roberts and Mendenhall Lake.

For the broader trip overview: Juneau.