The Inside Passage and Glacier Bay

Alaska, USA

I was sent to the great state of Alaska last week for a business trip and loved waking up every morning with the sun (4am) to see the beautiful mountains outside my hotel window. I stayed in picturesque, and small (30,000 people), Juneau, located on one arm of the Inside Passage. 

This place is an absolute ghost town when the cruise ships aren't in port. I have to admit, it was nice to have the place all to myself once the cruise ships were gone for the day. Here's one of the ships (mine!).

The highlight of my trip though? A floatplane ride up the Taku River, over glaciers, to Taku Glacier Lodge.  Even the vista from the floatplane and then on the ground at the lodge don't do justice to the sheer size of the glaciers.  Some would trump any city skyline.  The excursion was a quick 20 minute floatplane flight up the Taku River over the Juneau Ice Field and many glaciers to Taku Glacier Lodge.  Once at the lodge, we had time to take in the scenery of the place before heading inside the lodge for a wonderful salmon lunch.  The food here is amazing - highly recommend it.  It was a great way to spend the afternoon and really understand what makes Alaska special. 

For a bird's eye view of Juneau, be sure to take the Mt. Roberts Tramway for a great view of the city that lies below.  You'll see snow capped mountains and get a great view of the Inside Passage.

Places to grab some food in Juneau:
Paradise Cafe, near the waterfront for organic, yummy treats, sandwiches and salads.
The Hangar on the Wharf, a Juneau favorite for its waterfront views and reliable pub food.
Heritage Coffee, a local Starbucks alternative.

Place to grab drinks:
Visit the iconic Red Dog Saloon with sawdust floor and red saloon doors at the entrance.  Order the duck fart, don't ask, just trust me.

Date of Completion (Inside Passage): May 2010
*Still need to complete Glacier Bay!