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Closure of Steep Creek Trail at Mendenhall Glacier
JUNEAU, Alaska, July 7, 2017
– The Juneau Ranger District will close the gates to Steep Creek Trail, located between Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Moraine Ecology Trail, on July 10, 2017, to avoid conflicts between bears and people during the salmon spawning season. This closure
is done annually due to the number of bears attracted to the area by the abundant fish.
“Many of the resident bears are accustomed to people on the platforms, but not on the back side of Steep Creek
where there are no fences or elevated platforms for separation,” said Laurie Lamm, assistant director of Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
Signs have are posted at the gates, as well as nearby Dredge Lakes trail heads, explaining the purpose of the
closure. Rangers also mark the boundaries with signs and yellow ropes to direct people using Moraine Ecology Trail away from the visitor center and parking lots. The signs explain how the closure is mutually beneficial to people and bears. “By allowing bears a refuge area, they are less stressed and spend more time in open areas. This provides you
with a better view, and for wildlife, better access to natural habitat,” added Lamm.
Steep Creek Trail and platforms are included in the glacier’s fee areas. Passes are needed at any time of day
or evening. Seasonal passes cost $15 but will be reduced to $10 as of July 15. They are available at the visitor center’s Discovery Southeast bookstore, at the Forest Service’s Juneau Ranger District at 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, and at credit card vending
machines located near the two visitor center parking lots. Daily passes cost only $5 per person.
To ensure quality bear viewing opportunities continue in the area, please heed the following suggestions and rules
on Steep Creek’s elevated platforms: maintain a calm demeanor and use slow movements, be courteous and respectful to other visitors, dogs and bicycles are not permitted, food and beverages are not permitted (except for water), and notify staff if you see a
bear. For more information on the closure, contact Laurie Craig at 907-789-6635.
Photo caption:
Signs have are posted at the gates, as well as nearby Dredge Lakes trail heads, explaining the purpose of the closure
of the Steep Creek Trail at Mendenhall Glacier. (Official U.S. Forest Service photo)
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