Juneau in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Juneau
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect cruise season - calm waters in Inside Passage with 18+ hours of daylight for maximum sightseeing and wildlife viewing from ship decks
- Peak whale migration period - humpback whales return to feeding grounds, with 80% chance of spotting whales on any given day versus 30% in winter months
- Accessible glacier viewing - Mendenhall Glacier trail conditions improve dramatically with only 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) of rain, making hiking trails from visitor center to Nugget Falls manageable
- Spring awakening wildlife - brown bears emerge with cubs, eagles return to nest, and salmon runs begin, creating exceptional photography opportunities
Considerations
- Variable weather requires flexible planning - temperatures can swing 15°C (27°F) in a single day, meaning morning glacier tours might need afternoon rescheduling
- Tourist season ramp-up means increasing prices throughout April - early April accommodation rates are 40% lower than late April when cruise ships increase frequency
- Limited daylight activities despite long days - many outdoor adventure operators don't start full schedules until May 1st, restricting helicopter and kayak tour options
Best Activities in April
Mendenhall Glacier Trail Hiking
April's drier conditions make the 3.2 km (2 mile) round-trip trail to Nugget Falls ideal, with snowpack mostly melted but summer crowds not yet arrived. The glacier face is most active in spring warming, creating dramatic calving events. Trail conditions are optimal with minimal mud and clear viewpoints.
Whale Watching Tours
April marks peak humpback whale migration season with whales returning to Southeast Alaska feeding grounds. Water temperatures and calm conditions create ideal viewing, with typical tours seeing 8-15 whales per 4-hour excursion. Orcas and Steller sea lions are also highly active.
Downtown Historic Walking Tours
April's mild temperatures 33-48°C (91-119°F) and minimal rainfall make self-guided or group walking tours comfortable. Spring timing avoids summer's cruise ship crowds while still having full access to museums, galleries, and historic buildings. The State Capitol and Governor's Mansion offer seasonal tours.
Mount Roberts Tramway and Hiking
April offers perfect tramway conditions with clear views and accessible alpine hiking once you reach 550 m (1,800 ft) elevation. Snow conditions are minimal on lower trails, and the Nature Center features spring wildlife exhibits. Avoid summer's peak pricing and crowds.
Glacier Bay Day Tours
April marks the opening of Glacier Bay National Park's inner waters after winter closure. Boat tours encounter massive tidewater glaciers, seals on ice floes, and migrating seabirds. Weather is stable enough for full-day excursions but not yet peak summer pricing.
Local Brewery and Distillery Tours
April's variable weather makes indoor activities valuable, and Juneau's craft beverage scene peaks with spring seasonal releases. Local breweries feature salmon run ales and spruce tip IPAs only available in spring months. Tours include tastings and behind-the-scenes brewing processes.
April Events & Festivals
Alaska Folk Festival
Week-long celebration featuring traditional and contemporary folk music from across Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Free concerts held throughout downtown venues with evening performances at Centennial Hall. Features local indigenous artists and traditional Alaskan storytelling.
Juneau Jazz & Classics Festival
Multi-day festival combining jazz performances with classical music in intimate venue settings. Features both local Alaskan musicians and touring artists, with workshops and masterclasses available. Evening concerts held at various downtown locations.