Exploring the Inside Passage requires a mix of careful planning and the flexibility to go where the weather allows. This ten-day itinerary starts in the capital city of Juneau and weaves through the islands and fjords that define the region. You will utilize the Alaska Marine Highway, bush planes, and local charters to see the very best of the panhandle. From the calving glaciers of the north to the historic shores of Sitka, this route captures the essence of the Alaskan wilderness.
Day 1-2: Arrival and Juneau Exploration
Fly into Juneau International Airport (JNU) to begin your journey. The airport is a short 20-minute drive (about 10 miles) from the historic downtown district. Spend your first afternoon walking the waterfront and visiting the Alaska State Museum to get a sense of the region's vast history. On your second day, head to the Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown. You can hike the Nugget Falls trail for a close-up view of the ice or visit the Forest Service visitor center for a panoramic perspective.
In the evening, take the Mount Roberts Tramway for a bird's-eye view of the Gastineau Channel. The summit offers several miles of trails and a chance to see a rescued bald eagle at the nature center. Juneau has a vibrant food scene, so be sure to try some fresh-caught halibut or king crab at a local waterfront eatery. Keep an eye on the weather, as mountain activities can be obscured by clouds, and check the NPS site if you plan to venture into the nearby wilderness areas.
Day 3-5: Glacier Bay National Park
From Juneau, take a short, scenic flight or a ferry to the small town of Gustavus, the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Spend three days here to truly absorb the scale of the ice. On Day 4, embark on a full-day catamaran tour that travels deep into the park's east and west arms. This is where you will see the massive Margerie Glacier and potentially witness large-scale calving events. The boat also stops near South Marble Island, a nesting site for puffins and a haul-out for Steller sea lions.
Day 5 is perfect for a guided sea kayaking excursion in Bartlett Cove. The calm, protected waters are ideal for beginners and offer a quiet way to search for sea otters and black bears along the shoreline. Staying in the park lodge or a local bed and breakfast in Gustavus allows you to enjoy the peacefulness of the area after the day-trippers have departed. Remember that Glacier Bay is a highly regulated environment, so ensure you have any necessary permits or tour bookings well in advance.
Day 6-8: The Historic Charm of Sitka
Travel from Gustavus to Sitka via a regional flight or the ferry system. Sitka sits on the outer coast of Baranof Island, facing the open Pacific Ocean, which gives it a different character than the protected inner channels. Spend Day 6 exploring the Sitka National Historical Park, where you can walk the Totem Trail and learn about the 1804 Battle of Sitka. The parkâs visitor center features master carvers working on traditional projects.
On Day 7, head out on a marine wildlife charter. Sitka Sound is renowned for its high concentration of sea otters and humpback whales, and the volcanic peak of Mount Edgecumbe provides a stunning backdrop for photos. For Day 8, consider a hike up the Gavan Hill Trail or a visit to the Fortress of the Bear and the Alaska Raptor Center. These rehabilitation facilities provide an up-close look at brown bears and birds of prey that cannot be released back into the wild, offering a fantastic educational experience for all ages.
Day 9: Skagway and the Gold Rush Legacy
Take a ferry or flight north to Skagway, a town that feels like a living museum of the Klondike Gold Rush. Spend the morning riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This historic train climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, passing through tunnels and over high trestles. The engineering marvel is matched only by the views of the rugged mountains and rushing waterfalls. It is a quintessential Alaskan experience that highlights the grit of the early pioneers.
In the afternoon, wander the boardwalks of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The Park Service offers guided walking tours of the historic district, telling stories of the characters who passed through here in 1898. If you have the energy, the hike to Lower Dewey Lake offers a peaceful escape from the bustling town center. Skagway is small and very walkable, making it easy to see the highlights in a single day before preparing for your departure. Be sure to check the ferry schedules, as they can be subject to change due to sea conditions.
Day 10: Departure and Final Reflections
On your final day, take a scenic ferry ride or a short flight back to Juneau to catch your departing flight. If time allows, stop by a local fish market to pick up some vacuum-sealed smoked salmon to take home. Reflect on the sheer scale of the landscape you've traversedâfrom the deep fjords and ancient rainforests to the bustling port towns. The Inside Passage is a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Logistically, a trip like this requires a daily budget of about $350 per person to cover transportation, regional flights, and tours. While this may seem high, the specialized transport needed to reach these remote areas is a significant part of the cost. Always check for current travel advisories and park conditions on official government websites. The Inside Passage is a wild, unpredictable place, and being prepared is the key to a successful journey through the Great North. Your 10-day loop will give you a comprehensive taste of what makes Southeast Alaska so special.
More ways to book Inside Passage
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare