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Juneau Travel Resources

Juneau Travel Resources

Juneau Alaska, USA Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Required Apps

  • Google Maps / Apple Maps:

    Download offline maps of Juneau for navigation.

  • AllTrails:

    Find detailed information on Juneau's hiking trails.

  • NOAA Weather:

    Acquire accurate weather forecasts for Juneau's variable climate.

  • Uber/Lyft:

    Access ride-sharing services, though availability varies.

  • Babbel:

    Learn basic Tlingit phrases with Babbel to engage with local culture.

Useful Websites

  • Travel Juneau:

    Official tourism site for attractions and tours (traveljuneau.com).

  • USDA Forest Service:

    Information on Mendenhall Glacier and Tongass National Forest (fs.usda.gov/tongass).

  • Alaska Marine Highway:

    Ferry schedules and booking (dot.alaska.gov/amhs).

  • Alaska Airlines:

    Main airline serving Juneau (alaskaair.com).

  • NordVPN:

    For secure browsing on public Wi-Fi using NordVPN.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

General Alaska guidebooks often include Juneau sections. Acquire local maps from the Juneau Visitor Information Center.

Books About Juneau

"Gold Rush Women" by Jane G. Haigh for history. "Haa Shagóon: Our Ancestors, Our History" for Native Alaskan culture.

Local Publications

The Juneau Empire (juneauempire.com) for current events. Free tourism brochures at the airport or hotels.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
  • Juneau Police (non-emergency): (907) 586-0600
  • Bartlett Regional Hospital: (907) 796-8900
  • U.S. Coast Guard (marine emergencies): Channel 16 VHF-FM

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost passport to local police; contact your country's embassy.
  • Call banks/credit card companies immediately to report lost cards.
  • Keep international emergency numbers separate from your wallet.
  • For non-U.S. Citizens, consult your country's embassy for assistance.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on Alaskan wildlife or Inside Passage.
  • Films set in Alaska offer visual context.
  • Explore various nature and adventure titles.
  • Discover films highlighting Juneau's unique environment.

Music & Art

  • Explore Alaskan folk music.
  • Engage with Native Alaskan art forms.
  • Visit local galleries for inspiration.
  • Listen to podcasts about local culture.

Online Communities

  • Join Reddit communities (e.g., r/Alaska, r/Juneau).
  • Engage with general travel forums.
  • Ask questions and share experiences with fellow travelers.
  • Stay informed on local tips and events.

Safety & Planning Reminders

Important Safety Protocols

Natural Disaster Preparedness

  • If a strong earthquake occurs, remain calm.
  • Follow local authority instructions during tsunami warnings.
  • Move to higher ground if near the coast during a tsunami alert.
  • Hotel emergency procedures are often posted.

Health & Well-being

  • Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
  • Pack necessary personal medications.
  • Be aware of local wildlife and safety guidelines.
  • Protect yourself from sun and insects.

General Security Awareness

  • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Do not leave bags unattended.
  • Report suspicious activities to local authorities.

Home Preparations

Before Your Departure

  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
  • Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
  • Arrange for plants to be watered if applicable.

Emergency Contacts at Home

  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.
  • Provide them with emergency contact numbers.
  • Leave a with someone for unforeseen situations.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • Flights to Juneau (JNU) require booking.
  • Secure your accommodations well in advance.
  • Popular summer tours book quickly.

Optional Transport

  • Car rentals, if you plan to drive.
  • Alaska Marine Highway ferry tickets.
  • Airport shuttle services or taxis.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Month Before Departure

  1. Review your planned itinerary and confirm all bookings.
  2. Acquire any required clothing or gear.
  3. Arrange for mail collection or plant care.
  4. Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
  5. Make digital and physical copies of all documents.

Week Before Departure

  1. Start packing, focusing on layers and waterproof clothing.
  2. Download useful apps and offline maps to your phone.
  3. Fully charge all electronics.
  4. Reconfirm airport transfers.
  5. Organize all physical travel documents.

Travel Considerations

Orientation

Visit the Juneau Visitor Information Center for local maps and brochures.

Currency

Withdraw USD from an ATM for immediate expenses or bus fares.

First Steps

Locate your pre-arranged transportation from the airport or ferry terminal.

Critical Check

Verify passport validity and visa requirements for your destination well ahead of travel.

Final Preparations

Document & Gear Review

Passport & Visa Details

  • Passport Validity:

    Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

  • Visa/ESTA:

    For non-U.S. Citizens, confirm visa or ESTA status well in advance.

  • Document Copies:

    Carry photocopies and digital scans of all critical documents.

Gear & Clothing Check

  • Layers:

    Pack clothing in layers for Juneau's variable climate.

  • Waterproofs:

    Include waterproof outer gear and sturdy shoes.

  • Electronics:

    Charge all electronics and pack portable chargers.

Pre-Trip Research

History & Heritage

Acquire knowledge about Juneau's gold rush era and Native Alaskan heritage.

Wildlife & Safety

Familiarize yourself with local wildlife and safety guidelines.

City Layout

Understand Juneau's layout, including downtown and surrounding areas.

Arrival & Departure Checklists

Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration and customs (if applicable).
  • Collect your luggage.
  • Locate pre-arranged transportation to your lodging.
  • Check into your accommodation.

Before Departure

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Check airline baggage allowance to avoid fees.
  • Confirm your return flight or ferry booking.
  • Repack luggage carefully; secure valuables.

Packing Essentials

Clothing & Footwear

  • Layered clothing for varied temperatures.
  • Waterproof jacket and pants.
  • Comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes.
  • Warm hat, gloves, and wool socks.

Personal & Health Items

  • Basic first-aid kit.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Any personal prescription medications.
  • Portable power bank for electronics.

Final Packing Tip

Consider packing cubes for organized luggage and easy access to items.