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Rays of Adventure
Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

Exploring Juneau, Alaska in April

Posted on September 25, 2021February 12, 2022
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Juneau in Alaska is an amazing place to explore. The mountains and scenery are just beautiful. Visiting in late April can bring the best views without the crowds. Here’s my guide to exploring Juneau, Alaska in April.

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What is Juneau, Alaska like in April?

Exploring Juneau, Alaska in April can give you some amazing snowy mountain views, but without the peak summer crowds. I loved visiting in late April and I’d definitely recommend visiting at this time of the year.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

Juneau, Alaska is well known as a summer cruise destination. Alaska cruises depart from the USA and Canada to explore the beautiful coastline, glaciers and mountains of Alaska. Extreme weather in the winter months mean it is difficult to visit Alaska in the winter. But in the summer, this amazing destination really opens up to tourists.

April is the month when the first cruise ships arrive in Juneau, and the summer tourist season really starts to begin. The first cruise ships tend to arrive in late April, and it’s from this date that a lot of the attractions first open up. Things like whale watching trips and the tramway aren’t open in early April, and a lot of restaurants are only open after the first cruise ship arrives as well.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

To make the most of exploring Juneau, Alaska in April it’s best to time your visit for the last week of April. Research online when the first cruise ship arrives and when attractions open, and visit then. That way you’ll be able to visit when most of the attractions and restaurants are open, but it will be before the biggest crowds arrive. It doesn’t tend to get busy until later in May, so you’ll have a lot of places to yourself.

You can go wildlife watching in Juneau in April and you have a good chance of seeing humpback whales. You might also be able to spot orcas if you’re lucky. However, it can be a bit too early to see bears in the wild. So if you’re desperate to see wild bears, you might want to visit a bit later in the spring/summer.

Snowy mountains in Alaska

What should I pack to visit Alaska in April?

The weather in Alaska in April can be unpredictable. To be able to fully enjoy exploring Juneau, Alaska in April it’s best to come prepared for adverse weather conditions. Check the weather forecast before your trip so you know what to expect. You might still get some late snow, or just lots of cold rain. Or you could get lucky and experience beautiful spring sunshine.

Even if it’s sunny, it can still be cold in Alaska in April, especially on the coast. And always be prepared for some rain. You won’t need any super specialist outdoor gear, but you’ll want similar clothes to what you’d wear on a winter’s day in the UK. It’s best to be prepared, and then you might get lucky with the weather and not need it. The first day I was in Juneau in late April it was cold and grey and rainy, and I was shivering even in my warm winter coat. But then the weather suddenly cleared and the sun came out, and I was walking around with my coat undone and sometimes taking it off and just being outside in a t-shirt. The weather can change drastically in just a few hours.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

Some things to pack include:

  • A warm, waterproof coat and possibly an extra fleece or another layer for warmth
  • Waterproof over-trousers so you can still go outside in the rain
  • Walking boots that are waterproof and have good grip in case you come across any icy/snowy patches
  • Lots of options of layers so you can put them on/take them off depending on the weather
  • Camera and lots of memory cards – the scenery is wonderful
  • A good map and compass if you plan to do any hiking away from the main trail
  • Binoculars for wildlife watching

Top things to do in Juneau, Alaska in April

I’d recommend taking this great guide to Alaska (affiliate). It gives some great ideas for places to stay, restaurants, and even more activities to enjoy.

Whale watching in Alaska

My favourite experience when exploring Juneau, Alaska in April was going whale watching. I was so lucky to see a group of four orcas near the beginning of the boat trip, and it was amazing.

Seeing Orcas in Alaska in April

I also got some really good views of two humpack whales towards the end of the trip. The weather was just perfect. And the boats don’t go too far out to see from Juneau, so the sea was very flat. There wasn’t really any risk of getting seasick on the boat trip I went on, because we stayed close to the shore so it was calm and flat. I’m sure it can get rougher in bad weather, but the sea was amazingly flat when I went so I could just focus on enjoying it.

Seeing humpack whales in Alaska in April
Humpback whale in Alaska in April

Mount Roberts Tramway

For some breath-taking views, take the cable car/tram up to the top of Mount Roberts. The ride only takes a few minutes, and the views are amazing the whole way up.

View from Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau

You travel up 1,800 feet from the cruise ship dock in downtown Juneau through the rain forest to the top of the mountain. Check the opening times and ticket prices of the tramway here – and remember it usually opens in late April when the first cruise ships arrive. And keep an eye out for wildlife as well when you get to the top – I spotted a Bald Eagle flying over.

Mount Roberts tramway in Juneau
Bald Eagle in Juneau Alaska

At the top, there are a selection of hiking trails. In April, some of these might still be blocked with snow. When I visited in late April I was able to walk a bit, but a lot of it was over snow which was quite slippery. I ended up not walking too far and just enjoying the views, and it was definitely still worth doing.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

Mendenhall Glacier and Lake

For some of the most stunning views in Alaska, take the short trip from Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just on the edge of the town, so easily accessible by Uber. It’s an amazing glacier and definitely worth visiting.

Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska

There are numerous hiking trails in this area, and most are open in late April. I just loved the views across the lake to the glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska

There’s also a really impressive waterfall here as well, if you follow the path around the lake. The advantage of visiting in Spring is that there’s usually plenty of water coming down the waterfall from all the melting snow. It’s lovely to walk through the forest here and see everything just waking up for spring, after being asleep under a blanket of snow all winter.

Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau Alaska

Keep an eye out for wildlife as well. Even though April is quite early to be able to see much, I was super lucky to spot a Porcupine in the top of one of the trees!

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April
Seeing a Porcupine in Alaska in April

Spot Bald Eagles in Juneau

Before going to Juneau, I’d been researching how to see Bald Eagles, one of the USA’s most famous animals. People were saying you could see them in the town, but I was sceptical. But you really can see them in the town! I saw some just perched on lamp posts on the edge of the road just as I was leaving the airport. And when I was walking around the town, I saw more just perched on the edge of the buildings. Local people were walking past without giving them a second glance, which really does show that they are a common sight here. I just loved being able to take so many photos of them close up.

Bald Eagle in Juneau Alaska
Bald Eagle in Juneau Alaska

McGivney’s Sports Bar and Grill

One of my favourite restaurants in Juneau that was open in April was McGivney’s Sports Bar and Grill. It’s set in the restaurant in the hotel of Four Points by Sheraton. The sports bar here had a great atmosphere, and was one of the most lively bars/restaurants in the city in April. The food here was great as well, especially the fish and chips. It’s a great place to spend the evening after a busy day exploring Juneau, Alaska in April.

The best food in Juneau
The best food in Juneau

Juneau Centre and Waterfront

When you visit Juneau, make sure you take some time to explore the centre and also the waterfront. There are plenty of interesting shops here, which are perfect to browse when the weather isn’t so great. Juneau isn’t a big town, but there’s still a nice selection of shops. It felt busy enough in April, although it’s clear it gets much busier here in the peak tourist summer months.

Juneau centre
Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

However, visiting in April really gave you a sense of how isolated this small town much feel in the winter. It’s so far from any other town or city, with few roads connecting it to the rest of the world. I quite liked the feeling of isolation, although I’m not sure how keen I’d be for a whole winter!

Juneau in Alaska

The waterfront is also really pretty as well. You can see where all the cruise ships dock. Take some time to wander around, and also look out for any ducks in the water. I saw loads of these Surf Scoters when I visited in late April.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April
Birdwatching in Juneau Alaska

Alaska State Museum

The Alaska State Museum is the perfect attraction for a rainy afternoon. There are some fascinating displays, and you learn about the people who have lived in this area throughout history. There’s a strong focus on the maritime history and also the wildlife. I really enjoyed learning more about this area and appreciating the history.

Alaska State Museum in Juneau
Alaska State Museum in Juneau

Alaska State Improv Festival

One of the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska in late April is to go to the Alaska State Improv Festival. This festival of improvised comedy runs every year in late April. Performers travel into Juneau from all over the USA and all over the world. you can enjoy some brilliant improvised comedy shows and spend your evenings laughing until your sides hurt. It’s also a really friendly festival as well, so you’re guaranteed to meet some fun and friendly people. It’s a great option for evening entertainment after a day exploring the mountains. My favourite improvised comedy group I saw at the festival was Extreme Improv, a UK-based group who did some amazing short-form sets. You can find out more about them here – they also do loads of online shows if you can’t travel to see them in person.

Extreme Improv at the Alaska State Improv Festival
Extreme Improv at the Alaska State Improv Festival
Extreme Improv at the Alaska State Improv Festival
Extreme Improv at the Alaska State Improv Festival

Book your departing flight for sunset

For a perfect ending to your time in Juneau, try to book a flight home that leaves at sunset.

Sunset over mountains in Alaska

The view out of the window across the seemingly endless expanse of snowy mountains is just breath-taking. Nature doesn’t get better than this.

Exploring Juneau Alaska in April

Enjoy exploring Juneau, Alaska in April! And remember to check out this great guide to Alaska ready for your trip (affiliate). The North West of the USA has some amazing scenery, so why not take some time to explore more. Check out the mountains in Washington state, and head over to have some fun in Seattle. Or if you’re looking for some warm sun in the USA, why not visit Yosemite National Park and Big Sur in California.

Rays of Adventure Guide to Solo Female Travel

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25 thoughts on “Exploring Juneau, Alaska in April”

  1. Peggy Zipperer says:
    February 2, 2022 at 10:16 pm

    What a fantastic trip! We had a trip planned in the summer of 2020 but you know, Covid. I’m just dying to go and you’ve got some great info in here. Plus, your pictures are truly gorgeous!

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      February 3, 2022 at 9:08 pm

      Thank you! It really was an amazing trip, I really hope you’re able to go there soon. It’s just beautiful in the summer.

      Reply
  2. Paul (Paul Explores the World) says:
    October 22, 2021 at 10:30 pm

    It looks so beautiful. You have some great pictures, especially of the glacier and local wildlife! That’s helpful info about not visiting till cruise ships start coming through. I’ve been thinking I’d like to visit in winter when it’s not crowded but now I’m second guessing that.

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:46 pm

      Thank you, there are so many beautiful views to take photos of. I’m sure it’s a beautiful place to visit all year round, but I was glad I waited until April when things were starting to open up more.

      Reply
  3. Denise says:
    October 12, 2021 at 9:34 am

    Those snow covered mountains are just breathtaking!

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:39 pm

      They were, it really is a beautiful place!

      Reply
  4. Alma says:
    October 10, 2021 at 1:23 pm

    Wow! What an experience this must have been. Coming from a mostly sunny country with not too much snow in winter this looks like such an adventure for me & one that I would gladly add to my bucket list, just need some suitable clothing!

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:38 pm

      It really was an amazing adventure. I hope you’re able to visit soon – and yes a good coat is necessary in the snow!

      Reply
  5. sue says:
    October 10, 2021 at 9:04 am

    Wow! I’ve never been to Alaska but it is on my list & looks stunning. I love anywhere you can observe animals in the wild & it seems like you were lucky with your 4 orcas & the whales. The glacier looks stunning too. Clearly, the end of April is a good time to go to avoid the crowds – thanks for the tip.

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:38 pm

      Yes I felt so lucky to see the orcas and humpback whales, it was a highlight of my trip! I hope you’re able to visit Alaska soon, it really is beautiful.

      Reply
  6. Teja says:
    October 10, 2021 at 9:01 am

    That sunset flight out is a great tip. It wouldn’t have crossed my mind.

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:37 pm

      The sunset flight ended up being one of my favourite views on the whole trip. I felt so lucky to get such a good view.

      Reply
  7. Susanna says:
    October 10, 2021 at 8:30 am

    I’m from Alaska and love Juneau all times of the year. It is a place many locals don’t even get to visit. Your photos of the mountains are beauitul. I need to get over there for the Improv festival, that is something I have yet to do. How fun!

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:37 pm

      Juneau really is beautiful, it must be amazing to live in Alaska and see it in the different seasons.

      Reply
  8. Nur Amalina Mohd Razali says:
    October 10, 2021 at 12:50 am

    Great article. And the view of snowy mountains from the window is very beautiful too.

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:36 pm

      Thank you. I really loved the views of the snowy mountains, it’s a beautiful place.

      Reply
  9. Catherine - Savvy Family Travel says:
    October 9, 2021 at 9:41 pm

    Seeing Mendenhall up close was mind bending. Alaska itself is a jaw dropping adventure. I’d add one more spot to the Juneau to do list; a visit to Alaskan Brewing Company. They export a lot of their brews, but stop in for a tasting of a unique batch!

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:35 pm

      Ooh the Alaskan Brewery Company sounds like a great place to visit! I’ll have to go back to Juneau to try it, thanks for your suggestion!

      Reply
  10. Shannon says:
    October 9, 2021 at 6:01 pm

    I would love to visit, especially to hike! Great idea on a sunset flight!

    Reply
    1. Jamieadstories says:
      October 22, 2021 at 7:17 pm

      Wow! This looks like such an amazing trip! I want to go there one day.

      Reply
    2. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:34 pm

      There are some great hikes near Juneau. I didn’t have time to explore them all, so I’d love to go back to do some more hiking.

      Reply
  11. Charu Goyal says:
    October 9, 2021 at 6:00 pm

    I have been wanting to go to Alaska since forever! Juneau looks and sounds magical. Thanks for putting it on my radar, Rachel 🙂

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:34 pm

      You’re welcome. I really enjoyed my trip, and I really hope you’re able to enjoy it soon!

      Reply
  12. Rebecca Gade Sawicki says:
    October 9, 2021 at 5:49 pm

    Alaska has always been on my list, your post makes me want to go now! 🙂

    Reply
    1. Rays of Adventure says:
      October 23, 2021 at 9:33 pm

      It’s a really beautiful place to visit, I hope you’re able to go soon!

      Reply

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Rays of Adventure

Hi, I’m Rachel. UK based Travel Blogger and Solo Female Traveller. Blogging about solo travel and traveling with chronic health issues. Read my blogs for loads of travel guides and travel tips for destinations around the world.

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