Nestled between sky-scraping mountains, ancient glaciers, and open sea as far as the horizon, lies the little rainforest town of Juneau, Alaska. Juneau is the capital of Alaska and boasts a combination of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a fascinating heritage that makes it a place like no other. In this comprehensive location guide, I will delve into the most stunning photoshoot locations in Juneau Alaska, to help you decide where you want your photoshoot to take place.
When to take photos in Juneau
When scheduling a photoshoot in Juneau, considering the seasons is paramount to achieving your desired aesthetic. Each season offers its own unique palette of colors, lighting conditions, and natural elements, which can dramatically influence the mood and visual impact of your images. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant hues of spring blossoms, the golden glow of autumn foliage, the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape in winter, or the lush greenery of summer, thoughtful consideration of the season can elevate your photoshoot and help you capture the essence of the moment with clarity and beauty.
Spring
Spring in Juneau is April – May. The temperatures begin to rise, and nature comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. Spring can offer a mix of overcast days and occasional sunny spells, with spots of snow still on the ground on mountaintops and areas near the glacier. Wildlife, including whales and eagles, becomes more active during this time.
Summer
Summer in Juneau is June – August. Summer is the peak tourist season in Juneau. The days are long, with extended daylight hours lasting until almost 11pm. Average temperatures range from 55°F to 70°F. This season provides lush green landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, wildlife galore, and opportunities for lots of outdoor activities.
Autumn
Autumn in Juneau is September – November. Fall brings a slight change in colors as the foliage begins to transform from green to yellow and occasional shades of orange and red. The temperatures start to cool down, especially at night, ranging from 40°F to 60°F, and fog can often be seen in the mornings. The salmon also begin to spawn which can lead to foul smells and dead fish along some of Juneau’s beaches.
Winter
Winter in Juneau is December – March. Winter in Juneau is characterized by colder temperatures, snowfall, and reduced daylight hours with the sun setting between 3pm in December and 7pm in March. Average temperatures range from 25°F to 35°F bet can get as low as -10°F. The snow-covered landscapes offer a serene and tranquil atmosphere, and it’s a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Winter is also a great time to witness the occasional Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) when the temperatures are cold and the sky is clear.
How to Choose a Location
Choosing the perfect location for your photoshoot in Juneau Alaska involves considering several key factors to ensure the best possible outcome. From personal significance to practical considerations like accessibility and weather conditions, each aspect plays a crucial role in determining the ideal setting for your session.
Importance
Are there any places that are meaningful to you? If there are none specifically, think about your hobbies, or where you enjoy spending your time. Do you enjoy hiking? If so, then maybe a mountainous location would be right for you. Do you feel at home in or near the water? Consider a location on a beach or near a lake or river.
Accessibility
Do you have any physical limitation that you need to take into account? Are you bringing young or elderly guests? If you or somebody with you has mobility issues, then you should choose a location where everyone involved in the shoot will be comfortable and safe. Consider factors such as temperature, terrain, and amenities like restrooms or seating areas and avoid those that involve hiking or walking on rocky or unstable ground.
Season and Weather
Take into account the season and weather conditions at the time of the shoot. Certain locations may look vastly different depending on the time of year, and weather conditions can affect the mood and atmosphere of the photos. Some locations may be difficult to get to or even be closed during certain seasons.
Privacy
Consider the level of privacy you want during your session, especially if the photos are more intimate. Are you ok with a location that may have people or animals nearby? Also, be mindful of potential distractions, such as traffic, crowds, or nearby construction. If privacy and a quiet environment is important to you, then you should choose a location that won’t be overcrowded with onlookers.
Mood
Finally, what are the vibes that you’re going for? Do you want something more rustic, urban, or natural? Think about what locations and landscapes fit the overall theme and vision you have for your session. If you want moody vibes, a rocky beach on a foggy morning might fit the vibes better than a blooming wildflower field. What are your favorite colors? If you plan on printing your photos (which I highly recommend) think about the color scheme of your home. Is your favorite color green? If your photos take place in a forest location then you’ll get plenty of green in your photos. If you like blues, a water location would be a good choice. Do you have a specific outfit or shoes that you are set on wearing? If so, think about how that will coordinate with the surroundings.
Beach Locations
Auke Rec and Point Louisa
The Auke Recreation Picnic Area (referred to as Auke Rec for short), is on a beach on the northern shoreline of Auke Bay. It was once a village site for the Auk Tlingit Natives. A long pathway stretches from one end of the area to the other connecting the various picnic sites and providing various access points to the beach. The beach itself is rocky and bowl shaped, with patches of seaweed, overturned trees, and mountain views. Nearby there is a walkable peninsula called Point Louisa. To get to Point Louisa from Auke Rec, you simply follow the path through the forest. It is about a 5-10 minute walk. Porpoises, seals, and other wildlife can sometimes be seen from the beach in the summertime.
Sources: US Forest Service
See blogged sessions in this location
- Chelsea and Dan’s elopement
- Sarah and Michelle’s engagement session
- Paige and Cody’s engagement session
- Regalia photoshoot
- Dylan and Anna’s wedding
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is north of Juneau along the Glacier Highway with views of Lynn Canal and the Chilkat Mountains. Eagle River flows through the area out into the canal. There are two areas to Eagle Beach; the first area is a camping site with cabins and tent sites available to rent in the forest that run along Eagle River. The second area, which is more scenic and better for photos, is the picnic site that is located along the beach. The picnic site has a handful of picnic tables and access to the beach. Around the area wildflowers can be found at different times of the year, including iris, lupine, and fireweed. Wild strawberries grow along the beach in the summertime. Whales, sea lions, and seals also frequent the ocean nearby, and bald eagles and ducks can be seen near the shore.
Sources: AKDNR
See blogged sessions from Eagle Beach
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach (technically called Savikko Park) is located at the very end of Douglas Hwy. From Juneau, you cross the Juneau Douglas bridge, take the second exit on the roundabout, continue on Third Street, and then turn onto Savikko Road. Sandy beach has two shelters, a volleyball net, a playground, and nearby baseball fields. Locals often walk the beach or the adjacent Treadwell Mine Historic Trail through the forest where old mining ruins can still be seen. Along the beach you can find old wooden piling that are remnants of a pier and the iconic pump house, both of which used to be a part of the Treadwell Mine. At one point, the Treadwell Mine was the most productive gold mine in the U.S., until the tragic mine collapse in 1917. Between the forest and the beach there is a lot of options for variety during your photoshoot without needing to travel to multiple locations.
Sources: Parks and Rec, Alaska.org
See blogged sessions in this location
Waterfall Locations
Nugget Falls
Nugget Falls is a massive waterfall that plunges about 377 feet down into Mendenhall Lake. It’s powered by meltwater runoff from the Nugget Glacier. The trail to Nugget Falls begins half way down the trail to the Mendenhall Glacier Lookout Point where it branches off to the Nugget Falls trail. It’s an easy trail that takes you along the eastern side of Mendenhall Lake’s shoreline, through the mossy rainforest, and ends at a sand flat at the base of the massive waterfall. The sand flat has plenty of room to walk around, and from it you can see the Mendenhall Glacier as well as icebergs floating in the lake. Sometimes the trail to nugget falls is flooded and it can get quite crowded with locals on hot sunny days and with tourists on days where there are multiple cruise ships in town.
More Info and Sources: USFS, Alaska.org, Mendenhall Map
Blogged sessions at this location
North Douglas Waterfall
The North Douglas Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located along North Douglas Highway on Douglas Island. This waterfall is located on the side of the road and is easily accessible by car, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring the area. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliffside, and also freezes in the wintertime. There is a small firepit and parking spot and across the highway is a long stretch of rocky beach views of Fritz Cove.
Mountainous Locations
Mount Roberts
Mount Roberts is a prominent mountain located near downtown Juneau. Rising over 3,800 feet (1,160 meters) above sea level, it offers stunning panoramic views of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding mountains and fjords. The mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and the short hike to the Father Brown Cross is a popular location for elopements. The Mount Roberts Tramway provides easy access to the summit of Mount Roberts from the cruise ship docks in downtown Juneau.
More Information and Sources: Goldbelt Tram, Alaska.org
Blogged sessions in this location
Eaglecrest
Dubbed Alaska’s best kept secret, Eaglecrest Ski Area is a popular winter recreation destination located on Douglas Island, near Juneau. However, in the summer months, the area transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and mountain bikers seeking adventure amidst the breathtaking natural beauty. In the summer, the cross-country skiing trails become hiking trails with moody meadow and rugged mountain views.
More Information: Eaglecrest, Nordic Trails
Rivers and Creeks
Cope Park
Cope Park is a community park situated along the banks of Gold Creek. The park features lush greenery, towering trees, and picturesque walking trails that wind through the forest. Gold creek can often turn a turquoise color in the summer, and locals sometimes toss in coins for good luck. At the park there is a picnic area, a dog park, a playground, a tennis court, and a small bike course.
More Information and Sources: CBJ
Blogged sessions at this location
Fish Creek
Fish Creek, located on Douglas Island near Juneau, Alaska, is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly during the summer and fall months. The creek is home to one of the largest concentrations of spawning salmon in the region, attracting a myriad of wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, seals, and even occasional orcas. This can lead to fish carcasses and foul smells in the fall. Frogs also spawn in the nearby pond so sometimes large quantities of tadpoles can be found along the banks. Fish creek also has lots of photo spots within walking distance, including a wooden bridge over a pebbled creek, patches of wildflowers, and mossy wooded areas.
More Information and sources: Parks and Rec
Open Fields
Brotherhood Bridge Fireweed Field
The Kaxdigoowu Héen Dei, AKA The Mendenhall River Trail, AKA The Brotherhood Bridge Trail, is a scenic pathway stretching alongside Mendenhall River and through the forest. The biggest draw of this location is the Fireweed field with the Mendenhall Glacier in the background. The fireweed change color according to the season. You can read more about WHEN THE FIREWEEDS BLOOM IN ALASKA HERE.
More Information and sources: Alaska.org,
Blogged sessions from this location
Forest Locations
Rainforest Trail and Beach
The Rainforest Trail is a short and easy hiking trail that winds through lush, temperate rainforest terrain on Douglas Island. As you venture along the Rainforest Trail, you’re surrounded by towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees draped with mosses, ferns, and other verdant vegetation. The trail meanders through dense foliage and ends at a rocky beach with views of the Chilkat Mountains, Stevens Passage, and Shaman Island.
More Information and Sources: Audubon Society, Adventure Flow, Alaska.org,
Flume Trail
The Flume Trail Loop follows a historic wooden flume through dense forest just minutes from downtown Juneau. The long boardwalk stretches through towering trees over Gold Creek, creating strong leading lines and natural symmetry that photograph beautifully. On sunny days, the forest feels lush and vibrant. Overcast days bring out richer tones, and foggy days are especially atmospheric. This is a favorite trail for locals, so expect the occasional passerby or dog.
Glacier Views
Mendenhall Glacier Lookout Point
The Mendenhall Glacier Lookout Point offers a panoramic view of one of Alaska’s most iconic natural wonders, the Mendenhall Glacier. Aside from the glacier itself, you can see Nugget Falls and icebergs floating in the Mendenhall Lake from the lookout point. It’s accessible via a short walk from the visitor center, with benches and viewing platforms along the way.
More Information and Sources: USFS, Mendenhall Map
Blogged sessions at this location
Skater’s Cabin
Skater’s Cabin Picnic Shelter is located on the shore of the southwest corner of Mendenhall Lake, across the lake from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor’s Center and Nugget Falls. Skater’s Cabin is a stone cabin with a covered porch, picnic tables, a wood stove, and a large outdoor fire pit. The cabin itself is dark and not very photogenic, but outside is a popular site for photoshoots and intimate weddings. The beach is small, but offers amazing views of Mendenhall Lake and the Mendenhall Glacier. If you want photos with the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls in the background, but not the crowds of the Visitor’s Center’s lookout point, Skater’s cabin is a great alternative. There are also lots of nearby trails and forests that are especially beautiful in autumn.
Sources: USFS, reserve the cabin, Special use permit.
Blogged sessions at this location
- Kaiden and Rylee Skater’s Cabin Proposal
- Rainy Juneau Wedding Portraits – Kaci and Josh
- Covens and Cocktails 2023
Other Locations
The Whale Statue and Seawalk
The Juneau Seawalk, officially named Overstreet Park, is a picturesque promenade that stretches along the waterfront, offering views of the Gastineau Channel and passing float planes. Along the seawalk you can find a totem pole trail, local art, and interactive displays, but the most notable feature along the seawalk is the whale statue (named Tahku) which depicts a humpback whale breaching from the water. You can even walk along the small beach underneath the seawalk that is exposed at low tide.
More Information and sources: Parks and Rec, Totem Trail
Blogged sessions in this location
Downtown Juneau
Downtown Juneau offers a blend of historic charm, scenic beauty, and bustling small-town energy, making it a great photoshoot location for anyone who wants to really capture the spirit of Juneau in all its quirkyness. From the iconic State Capitol building to the towering totem poles to the colorful street art, downtown Juneau exudes character and charm at every corner.
Blogged sessions in this location
Statter Harbor
Statter Harbor is boat harbor that offers a great view of Auke Bay, especially at sunset. If you love fishing or that rugged alaskan vibe, Statter Harbor is a fun and unique location for a photoshoot.
More Information and sources: Docks and Harbors,
Blogged sessions at this location
More Location Ideas
- Montana Creek
- Airport EVAR Trail and Meadow
- Flume Trail
- Basin Road
- Auke Lake
- Outer Point
- Shrine of St. Therese
- Steps of the Capitol Building
- Alaska State Museum
- Amalga Distillery
- Rainy Retreat Bookstore
- Glacier Gardens
Final Thoughts
Juneau has no shortage on beautiful locations for your photoshoot. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier or the quaint charm of Statter Harbor, there are endless opportunities. I hope this guide has helped you choose the perfect location for your photoshoot in Juneau Alaska.
You might also like
Considering Eloping in Alaska?
I’d love to be considered as your Alaska elopement photographer! Simply fill out the contact form to get started!
Hey there, I’m Sierra! I’m your photographer, travel guide, and biggest fangirl. When you work with me, you can expect to dance, run, piggyback, motorboat, swear, laugh, and get messy. So what I’m saying is: wear comfortable shoes, throw the rulebook away, and don’t take life too seriously (none of us get out alive).
Feeling Inspired? Save it to Pinterest
