My Favorite Outdoor Yoga Spots in Juneau Alaska

My Favorite Outdoor Yoga Spots in Juneau, Alaska

We spent six months in Juneau, from May to October, the capital of Alaska. It’s an interesting place for many reasons, including that the only way you can get there is via boat, plane, or birth canal. That’s right?—?no roads to Juneau.

Suppose you are an independent traveler visiting Juneau without the aid of a cruise ship. In that case, this place, located in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, surrounded by mountains and glaciers, offers a profound way to connect with nature.

As a lover of all things yoga and a newly minted teacher, I loved practicing here. It transformed me in unexpected ways.

In this post, I share some of the benefits of practicing in nature, things you will need to practice outdoors in Juneau, and some of my favorite places to do so.

So, let’s dive into some of my favorite outdoor yoga spots in Juneau, Alaska.

The Benefits of Practicing Yoga in Nature

There is something magical about practicing yoga in nature that cannot be replicated in a studio setting. Mountain air, sounds of water, birdsong filling the sky, and breathtaking views take your mind elsewhere and elevate your practice.

Yoga in nature allows us to deepen our connection with the earth, feel grounded, and realize that we are a part of something greater than ourselves. This is true, even in your backyard.

Scientific studies have shown that practicing yoga in nature has many benefits. The negative ions in natural environments have been proven to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being.

Combining yoga’s physical movements and nature’s healing power will enhance our practice.

A hot new trend is ‘cold yoga,’ ‘snow-ga,’ or ‘cryotherapy,’ which is not as new as it seems.

It originated in India thousands of years ago and is practiced in temperatures between 45 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. People seeking this type of yoga are often called ‘chill-seekers.’

At this temperature, the body relies on metabolism to maintain internal temperature, thus burning calories and releasing endorphins?—?aka happiness hormones. It is said to enhance mental clarity, increase circulation, and help you recover from injuries faster.

I am sure there are positive aspects of cold yoga?—?(or hot yoga, for that matter)?—?but the same benefits can be found in regular yoga.

In this case, going to cool outdoor spots for the sheer power and serenity of the experience will more than do the trick without freezing your gonads off.

Some of my Favorite Outdoor Yoga Spots in Juneau, Alaska

A favorite spot that can be easily accessed is Mendenhall Glacier. Unrolling your mat in the backdrop of this natural wonder is amazing. The glacier is a half-mile wide and 1,800 feet deep of ice.

Visiting the glacier is not free, but a $5.00 day pass allows you to enter, hike, and explore. It is a cheap studio replacement.

The easiest way to visit the Mendenhall Glacier is via the Visitor Center.

The 6.3-mile out-and-back West Glacier Trail is a more challenging way to visit the glacier. It takes about 3.5 hours to complete, but there are spectacular views, Mendenhall Lake, and plenty of spots to drop your mat.

Eagle Crest Ski Area

Eagle Crest Ski Area is perfect for outdoor yoga in the summer and a world-class ski area in the winter. Make sure to enjoy this area?—?beyond yoga. The views are magical, and there is a zip line tour at Porcupine Lodge, which rocks. There are tons of well-groomed trails and

Eagle Crest is adding summer activities, but when I was there, you could hike, bike, or ride a Segway to explore.

If you are an independent traveler, you have probably already rented a car, so the 15-minute drive is easy, and Eagle Crest is a great place to unroll your mat and take a day of Zen.

Eagle Crest is not free, but it is free to drive and hike to, making it a perfect yoga spot.

The Shrine of St. Therese

We lived near The Shrine of St. Therese and visited about once a week.

It is a ‘don’t miss‘ location, a spiritual place of rejuvenation. Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature, this sacred site offers a haven for those seeking peace and serenity.

The Shrine of St. Therese is significant to both locals and visitors. It serves as a place for prayer, reflection, and renewal. Whether seeking guidance or simply yearning for a moment of quiet contemplation, this space welcomes you with open arms.

Visiting the Shrine is free, but lodging is available. Retreats are held throughout the year, providing opportunities for spiritual growth and community engagement.

The atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings create an ideal setting for introspection and connection with others who share similar beliefs.

Cope Park

Cope Park is exactly that, a park located on Gold Creek in Downtown Juneau. It is a great community park with amenities, and you can easily unroll your mat here. Best part? You can walk to it with ease from downtown Juneau.

It also has a trail with fewer people. The trail is less than a mile long and will take about twenty minutes. What a great alternative to an Airbnb balcony or backyard.

The Perseverance Trail

The Perseverance Trail is one of the most popular mountain trails, and access to it is easy in downtown Juneau.

The Perseverance Trail is a ‘do not miss’ hiking trail. Parts of the 4.5-mile trail can be challenging, especially if there is rain, but it is worth it. It took us about 3.5–4 hours to finish. I mention this trail because it is easy access to Juneau, but it is not a trail to drop a yoga mat.

You can take the Goldbelt Tram, and a lot of people like doing this. The Tram is not cheap?—?$50.00 a head at this writing. Once at the top, there is a gift shop, a not-so-great restaurant, and a trailhead to hike across the top.

But if you start behind Deckhand Dave’s, the crazy taco truck with a twist, you can wander up a side trail that branches off Granite Creek Trail and find cool mat-dropping spots.

Breathe Alaska Tours/Retreat

Although not yoga per se, Breathe Alaska offers a Mindfulness in the Wilderness tour. It takes a few forms?—?(hourly, daily, or retreats are offered), depending on your choice.

The daily tours are 3.5 hours long and consist of breathwork, meditation, and a small hike in the stunning landscape of Juneau, with mountains, waterfalls, ocean, and yes?—?-the glacier as your backdrop. Transportation from downtown Juneau and equipment are provided, as well as lunch.

A certified breathwork specialist and dedicated instructor leads the tours. This is a great way to get into your spirit gym in the great Juneau outdoors.

Yoga Equipment for Outdoor Practice in Juneau

When practicing yoga outdoors in Juneau, it is essential to have the right equipment, some of which is very specific for Juneau. Here are a few things to bring:

• Yoga Mat: Choose a lightweight, durable mat with good traction. Look for mats designed for outdoor use, as they are often more moisture-resistant and can withstand uneven surfaces. I have a roll mat and a fantastic travel mat that easily folds into my daypack.
• Yoga Towel: A yoga towel is great for absorbing sweat and providing a non-slip surface for your hands and feet. It also acts as a prop to lend support when bringing the earth closer. It is a great tool. Look for a towel made from quick-drying material, as Juneau’s climate can be damp.
• Sun Protection: Juneau may have long daylight hours during the summer, so don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays.
• Bug Spray: There is a reason that the mosquito is Alaska’s national bird. The bugs are no joke; many places—restaurants and excursions—offer a selection of bug spray upon arrival. It is an essential component to enjoying yoga outside. Make sure to take some.
• Bear spray and a bear bell: When I was in Juneau, I attached a bear bell to my daypack because, yes?—?you will see bears in downtown Juneau, at Home Depot, along the roads and trails. I always wanted to alert them to my presence, and a bell worked fine. Bear spray can be problematic because the wind can whip up unexpectedly, and you can be the one to end up with a face of bear spray.
• Layered Clothing: Juneau’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you dry and comfortable during your practice.

Tips for Practicing Yoga in Juneau’s Unique Climate

Juneau is the second largest rainforest in the world, so its climate is unique, with cool temperatures and significant rainfall. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your yoga practice in this beautiful city:

• Embrace the Rain: Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits. Juneau is known for its rainfall, so be prepared with waterproof clothing and a positive attitude. Practicing yoga in the rain can be a refreshing and invigorating experience.
• Sheltered Spots: Many sheltered spots offer protection from the elements: a gazebo, a dense grove of trees, or even the porch of a cabin. We lived on what was lovingly called ‘The Loop’?—?at the base of Mendenhall Glacier. Yep?—?it was awesome. One of my favorite shelters was Skaters Cabin, about a 13-mile drive from downtown Juneau. Another was Auke Lake.
• Mindful Transitions: Take your time moving between poses and be aware of any slippery surfaces. The damp climate can make the ground slick, so move mindfully to avoid accidents or injuries.

Embrace the Beauty of Juneau through Yoga

Unroll your mat, breathe in the crisp Alaskan air, and let the beauty of Juneau guide you on a journey of self-discovery and connection. Embrace the beauty of this remarkable city through yoga, and you will leave feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply connected to the natural world.

Coming soon is The Salty Yogi video series, where I have tailored a yoga practice for mature travelers seeking wisdom, balance, mobility, and tranquility in a library of gentle flows and guided meditations from around the globe.

Thank you for reading!

Check out our post about teaching yoga while living on a sailboat if you dug this story. 

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