Getting to Juneau, Alaska, is a little more of an adventure than simply driving in, because Juneau is not connected to the Alaska road network. Whether you’re arriving in summer or winter – or somewhere in between – you’ll choose from planes, ferries, cruises, or combinations of land + water travel. In this guide, we walk through the best options by season, tips for making the journey, and how to arrive refreshed and ready to stay at Frontier Suites.
Why Juneau Is Unique as a Destination
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, lies in the southeastern panhandle. It is bounded by water and mountains, and although it is contiguous to land, it is effectively isolated from the broader Alaska highway system. That means there is no direct road connection linking Juneau to the rest of the Alaska or continental U.S.
Because of that, all arrivals must use air or sea routes (or a private vessel) for most of the journey. You may combine driving as far as possible, then shift to ferry or plane.
Depending on season, weather, schedules, and your preferred balance of speed vs. scenery, your best route may vary.
Summer (May through September): Scenic and flexible routes shine
Summer is the most travel-friendly season, with more daylight, better weather, and more frequent service on sea routes and cruises.
Cruise ships / Inside Passage cruises
One of the most popular ways to reach Juneau is via an Alaska cruise or Inside Passage cruise departing from ports such as Seattle or Vancouver. Juneau is a regular port of call on many itineraries. The cruise offers the scenic pleasure of traveling by sea, visiting intermediate stops, and arriving right in downtown Juneau.
While cruises are more about the journey than speed, they are ideal if you want to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. Just keep in mind the cruise schedule defines your timing.
Alaska Marine Highway ferry
The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) operates state ferry service that connects many Southeast Alaska coastal communities and links to terminals in Washington state. One common route is from Bellingham, Washington, north through the Inside Passage with stops en route. This allows you to bring a vehicle (or travel as a passenger) and to take your time exploring small towns along the way.
The ferry ride from Bellingham to Juneau typically takes over two days, depending on stops and connections.
Because ferry slots are limited, you must make reservations in summer.
Combined road + ferry via Haines or Skagway
Another summer option is to drive through parts of Canada (via Alaska Highway, then down to Haines or Skagway), and from there take ferry or marine connections to Juneau. While this involves border crossings and coordination, it can make for a memorable road + sea adventure. Travelers often ship their car further and fly themselves.
One route: drive to Skagway, drop off your car or ship it, take ferry / ship from Skagway to Juneau (via marine routes).
Air travel
Even in summer, flying remains a quick and efficient option. Direct flights from Seattle to Juneau are common, taking about 2.5 hours.
From Anchorage, flights take about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Airlines such as Alaska Airlines serve Juneau with daily flights.
Some advantages of traveling to Juenau in summer include: better weather, fewer cancellations, more scenic aerial views, and potentially connecting flights through regional Alaska hubs.
Shoulder seasons (spring and fall): balancing routes and risk
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are transitional periods. Weather starts to shift, daylight changes, and some ferry or cruise routes may reduce frequency.
In those seasons:
- Ferry / marine routes still operate, though with somewhat reduced schedules.
- Cruise traffic tapers off as the high season ends; fewer ships call at Juneau.
- Flights remain a reliable option, though weather delays are more likely than in summer.
- Combining land and sea routes gives flexibility: drive as far as feasible, then transition to marine segments.
The benefit of travel in a shoulder season is fewer crowds and sometimes better pricing—but you must plan more carefully and leave buffer time for delays.
Winter (November through March): Air is often the only reliable option
Winter in Southeast Alaska brings shorter daylight, more storms, and limited marine service. Many ferry and cruise routes suspend or reduce frequency in the winter months.
Therefore:
- Flying becomes the dominant route. Airlines continue to operate service into Juneau (weather permitting).
- Ferry service is limited or seasonal. Some routes may not run or may have long periods of suspension.
- Cruise ships generally do not operate in Juneau in winter, except possibly repositioning cruises.
- Private flights or seaplanes may be used for remote access or connections from nearby towns.
If you are traveling in winter, booking flights with flexibility and contingency is wise. Plan for weather delays, early check-ins, and possible layovers.
Considerations for choosing the right option
Time vs. experience
If your priority is reaching Juneau quickly, flying is your best bet year-round. If you want the scenic route and have more time, cruises or ferry rides are fantastic in summer.
Cost vs. convenience
Flights can be more expensive, especially during peak summer demand. Ferry or cruise options may cost less per mile but add time, lodging en route, and possible extra coordination.
Bringing a vehicle or large luggage
If you need a car or have heavy gear, ferries allow vehicle transport. Ships and ferries also handle freight and large baggage. Air travel often imposes strict baggage limits.
Weather reliability and delay risk
Marine routes are more susceptible to cancellations or rescheduling in inclement weather, particularly in shoulder or winter months. Air travel can also be disrupted, but schedules are tighter, and rerouting options may be more flexible.
Advance booking necessity
Summer marine and cruise routes fill fast. Ferry reservations and cruise bookings often open months in advance. If your travel window is tight, secure reservations early.
Travel route examples by season
Example summer route (Seattle to Juneau via ferry plus ship)
Depart Seattle, drive or take public transit to Bellingham. Board the Alaska Marine Highway ferry north through the Inside Passage, enjoying stops at coastal towns, then arriving in Juneau after two or more days at sea. Or depart Seattle via cruise, visit coastal stops, and arrive in Juneau as a port of call.
Example summer road + marine route
Drive through Canada via the Alaska Highway, and reach Skagway or Haines. From there, catch a ferry or ship leg that stops in Juneau.
Example fall or spring route
Fly from Seattle to Juneau (direct), or take a ferry from Bellingham combined with a regional flight, allowing time for potential delays.
Winter route
Fly Seattle to Juneau or via Anchorage, connect through regional flights if needed. Avoid marine segments unless a winter ferry is confirmed in service on your travel dates.
Tips for smoother travel to Juneau
- Book early, especially in summer (cruise, ferry, or air)
- Allow buffer days in your schedule in case of cancellations or weather delays
- Check ferry schedules and confirm operations before committing
- Pack for variable weather – rain, wind, and sudden changes are common
- Monitor flight status and stay flexible with connections
- Use local transit or rentals in Juneau – Capital Transit bus service runs within Juneau.
- For coastal and remote access, consider local water taxis or small commuter flights.
Once you arrive in Juneau, explore local connections, taxi or shuttle services, or walk. The downtown area is quite walkable and compact.
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Why you should stay at Frontier Suites
When you travel all that way to Juneau, comfort and convenience in lodging matter. At Frontier Suites, you’ll find a welcoming base for your Alaska adventures. From our location, you can access downtown sights, arrange glacier trips, whale watching tours, and immerse yourself in the local vibe. Whether your arrival is by sea or air, Frontier Suites is ready to host you with cozy accommodations, friendly service, and local insight.
Let your journey to Alaska be part of the story. Choose the route that suits your time, budget, and spirit – and when you arrive, rest well and explore fully from Frontier Suites.Planning your trip to Juneau? Book your stay at Frontier Suites now to lock in your dates and begin the adventure.
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