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Powerline Trail
4.4 ★★★★☆ 32 Google reviews · Running trail in Juneau, Alaska · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Powerline Trail yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Powerline Trail
“Offers scenic views of the treeline, a few steams, lite waterfalls, and historic markers.”
“Nice, easy walking trail.”
If heading to Mendenhall Glacier and you cleverly worked out that public bus will take you there from downtown for $2/person vs $70+ by any other means, then you also get the joy of walking up the Powerline Trail to the glacial area. Such a lovely peaceful and beautiful walk. Easy to do.
About 2.5mi trail. Trail begins at Glacier Spur Road and ends at the Trail of Time Trail. The trail follows the old road alignment used to access the Glacier in the early 1900’s. Power was generated from water extracted from Nugget Creek and the transmission lines ran along the road that is now Power Line Trail.
This is a great trail that pretty much parallels the road/sidewalk out to the Mendenhall Glacier. Offers scenic views of the treeline, a few steams, lite waterfalls, and historic markers.
A lovely walk to easily get from the bus stop in town to the Mendenhall Glacier. There is a gorgeous waterfall in the woods about halfway.
Trail conditions & character
“Offers scenic views of the treeline, a few steams, lite waterfalls, and historic markers.”
“Used by locals for dog walking, running and cycling and wandering around in the many spurs off from the main path.”
Plan your run at Powerline Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Juneau
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Nugget Falls Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 68 reviews
Popular route to a waterfall on the Mendenhall Glacier featuring views of the glacier.
West Glacier Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 276 reviews
Outdoor recreation area known for hikes, glacial views, canoeing, and a waterfall.
