The Mt. Roberts Tramway (907/463-3412 or 888/461-8726, www.goldbelttours.com, Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 9 a.m.–9 p.m. May–Sept.) provides a fast way into the high country above Juneau. The tram starts at the cruise ship dock on the south end of town and climbs 1,800 feet up the mountain, providing panoramic views of the surrounding land and water.

The six-minute ride ends at an observation deck surrounded by tall Sitka spruce trees. Facilities here include a nature center, a restaurant, gift shops, and a theater where you can watch an award-wining 20-minute film about Tlingit culture.

The tram costs $27 adults, $14 children ages 6–12, and free for children under age 6. If you hike up, the ride down is only $5. Tickets are good all day, but the lines can get very long in late afternoon as cruise ship passengers rush back down to avoid missing their ship departures.

Because of the elevation, snow typically covers the ground until mid-June or later, and trails may not be accessible.

Gastineau Guiding (907/586-2666, www.stepintoalaska.com) leads easy “town, tram, and trek” hikes that include a short bus tour of town, a tram ride up Mt. Roberts, and a one-hour hike for $74 adults, $38 children. Or you can save your cash and simply strike out on your own along scenic alpine trails. Be sure to look for several live spruce trees carved with traditional Tlingit designs.