OCT 27 2012 

BY JULIA 

I recently heard a movie quote that made me think of this trek to Mendenhall Glacier. It was two pirates speaking about drinking from the cup of life, and how the opportunity was turned down. The first pirate said, “You could have lived for ever.” And the response he received: “But better to not know which moment may be your last… every morsel of your entire being alive to the infinite mystery of it all.  I have no say in it… Savvy?” I couldn’t agree more. The not knowing pushes you toward living and getting out there; a trek to Mendenhall epitomizes this sentiment.

Trekking Mendenhall West Glacier Trail by Julia at XplorMor

After my solo experience in the ice cave on Mendenhall Lake and Glacier in the winter, I felt it best to make this trip with a professional and with the proper gear to better make sure my safety. I couldn’t have been more correct! Going with Above and Beyond Alaska proved well worth the fee as I was supplied with necessary equipment and a knowledgeable guide named Dawn, who not only provided insights on the terrain and its history but proved a great companion for the duration.

This is a quintessential Alaskan trail for viewing mountains, glaciers, lake vistas and waterfalls, but the trail is not for the faint of heart. It consists of rocky terrain off the beaten path and is mainly accessible during temperate weather between April and September. It is about 8 miles in length round trip, and is a moderate to difficult hike. There are rope climbs on stone outcroppings, narrow switchbacks, stone staircases, and slippery paths through creeks that pass steep drop-offs.

Spectacular Views by Julia at XplorMor

The trail begins with an easy walk on a well-maintained path through Tongass National Forest surrounding Mendenhall Lake – a beautiful, lush Alaskan rain forest.  About a mile in, the trail starts to climb offering exceptional lookout points with expansive views of Mendenhall Lake, Valley, Glacier and Visitor Center.  Then towards the second mile marker, the trail crosses a rocky area with a flowing stream that falls into a beautiful waterfall and crystal clear pool.  Here the survey tapes and cairn markers are very visible as the foliage has not yet regrown to obscure the barren rocky landscape.  There is one metal disc marker dated “1951” that stood out on the trek.  This is where the glacier reached in that year, a good mile from where it is now; it has receded since the 1700s but the annual amount has increased in the past 50 years.

Mendenhall Glacier by Julia at XplorMor

Once at the glacier, it is important to be properly prepared with the right gear such as cramp-ons, ice-axe, harness, helmet and gloves in order to continue the trek on the ice. With this equipment, it may be possible to climb onto the glacier however other factors like the climate also limit its accessibility.  The glacier and its ice caves change with the weather; if the temperature rises, the ice thaws and drips, wearing away at the glacier mass and its stability. Additionally, it must be clear that any activities around the glacier may be extremely hazardous and should be taken at one’s own risk. I would never recommend to go into or too close to an ice cave, since they are very slippery, lead to the unknown, and may collapse without any warning. I would also not suggest walking on the glacier or into its caves or crevasses unless you are with someone familiar with glacier trekking such as a professional guide.

And, on a rare, wonderful occasion Mendenhall Glacier may offer an opportunity to discover and access an ice cave – one of Mother Nature’s temples.  Let the blue guide you into the mystery, but stay aware of your surroundings as danger is ever present in an impermanent world.

Ice Cave Entrance by Julia at XplorMor

The smoothness of the ice is amazing. I love to run my hands on the surface, even rest my cheek, feeling the curves, the cold and the sleek wonder. It’s utterly breathtaking, and for me overwhelming – I actually tear from the giddy, overpowering excitement. I sat on a rock in the middle of the stream, legs crossed, hands in my lap, eyes as wide as a child’s when seeing Santa. I enjoyed listening to the water flow, gazing, mesmerized by the neon blue glow.  Pure AWE.  This is my sanctuary.

For more information and photos from the XplorMor Expedition visit Mendenhall West Glacier Trail, and Tongass National Forest for current general information.