

You’ll start going up Franklin Street, turn right on 6th and then left on Basin Road which will take you to the trailhead that is well signed. If you prefer to hike the entire way, you’ll start from the steep hill downtown (called Star Hill) and climb about 1500 feet in two miles to reach the top of the tram. I recommend getting a map or downloading one on your phone before going. Once at the top of the tram, there are marked trails and you can go any distance you like. I highly recommend taking the tram (you can buy a ticket on board your ship or at the ticket booth) and then hiking from there because you’ll have views the entire way and get to see more! Also the trail up to the tram is very muddy and has a lot of roots. You can hike from downtown up the trail to the top of the tram or you can take the tram and start from there. The best hike to do in Juneau on a port day from a cruise ship is definitely Mt Roberts! You have a couple of options here. Related: The best Alaska cruise ports, What to wear for a hike in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska The best hike near Juneau’s cruise ship dock View from Mt Roberts on the trail along the ridge above the tram Best hike near Sitka’s cruise ship dock.Best hike near the Hoonah/Icy Strait Point cruise ship dock.Best hike near the Haines cruise ship dock.Best hike near Skagway’s cruise ship dock.Best hike near Ketchikan’s cruise ship dock.Best hike near Juneau’s cruise ship dock.Hiking shore excursions are usually very small groups, so you can still get away from crowds, but with a knowledgeable guide and easy transportation. Your cruise ship will offer hiking excursions, which is a great way to go if you don’t want to research them or worry about getting back to the ship on time. Some are easier and some are harder and I’ve included their mileage and elevation gain so you can find the best hike that works for you.

I worked in the cruise industry in Alaska for seven years and lived in two of these ports and these hikes are all ones you can get to easily from the cruise ship dock. If you’re a hiker and planning an Alaska cruise, or you just want to find a way to stretch your legs and get away from crowds, this article is for you!
