Travelers: be advised that we are monitoring the potential for a glacial lake outburst, similar to those experienced over the last two years. Travel Juneau is collaborating with the US Forest Service, excursion operators, and the City & Borough of Juneau to communicate to visitors and locals regarding this event, which NOAA anticipates will happen sometime during the next 2-3 weeks.

NOAA will issue notice of an imminent outburst, or jökulhlaup.  If this occurs, Travel Juneau will update this page, post updates on our social media channels, advise staff at our visitor information centers, and notify local excursion operators.

In advance of any outburst, all lakeside trails and roads adjacent to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (MGVC) and the Mendenhall Campground will be closed and evacuated, including Skater’s Cabin Road. Excursions in the area will be cancelled and remain so until facilities and trails in the area are inspected, cleaned, and confirmed safe for use.

The MGVC plans to remain open during their posted hours of 10:00AM – 5:00PM, Sunday through Friday, depending on the level of flooding. The Forest Service is also hoping to keep the Trail of Time open. You can monitor basin conditions here.