March Packing List for Juneau — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Waterproof shell jacketEssential

  March still sees 17 days of precipitation in Juneau, so a reliable waterproof outer layer is your most important piece of clothing.

• Fleece or wool mid-layersEssential

  With temperatures fluctuating around the average high of 41°F, layering with fleece is the best way to adapt to changing conditions in Juneau.

• Long-sleeve base layersEssential

  As temperatures dip to a low of 29°F, a thermal or merino wool base layer is crucial for staying warm during early morning or evening outings.

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  The ground in Juneau is a mix of slush, mud, and ice in March, making insulated, waterproof boots absolutely necessary.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Keep your feet warm and dry with wool socks, which insulate even when damp from a long day of walking in Juneau's wet spring conditions.

• Warm hat or beanieEssential

  A warm hat is still a necessity for March in Juneau, protecting you from the cold wind that sweeps down from the ice fields.

• Gloves or mittensEssential

  Your hands will get cold quickly in temperatures that average a high of only 41°F, so a good pair of gloves is a must.

• Ice cleatsEssential

  Many of Juneau's popular trails, like those on Douglas Island, remain very icy in March, and ice cleats are essential for safe hiking.

Clothing

• Waterproof shell jacketEssential

  March still sees 17 days of precipitation in Juneau, so a reliable waterproof outer layer is your most important piece of clothing.

• Fleece or wool mid-layersEssential

  With temperatures fluctuating around the average high of 41°F, layering with fleece is the best way to adapt to changing conditions in Juneau.

• Long-sleeve base layersEssential

  As temperatures dip to a low of 29°F, a thermal or merino wool base layer is crucial for staying warm during early morning or evening outings.

• Water-resistant pantsRecommended

  Whether it's snow or rain, keeping your legs dry is key to comfort while exploring the still-wintry landscapes around Juneau.

Footwear

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  The ground in Juneau is a mix of slush, mud, and ice in March, making insulated, waterproof boots absolutely necessary.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Keep your feet warm and dry with wool socks, which insulate even when damp from a long day of walking in Juneau's wet spring conditions.

• Waterproof gaitersRecommended

  March melt in Juneau creates deep slush and mud on trails near Douglas Island and the Mendenhall Valley — gaiters prevent soaked boot tops during the 17 average precip days.

Accessories

• Warm hat or beanieEssential

  A warm hat is still a necessity for March in Juneau, protecting you from the cold wind that sweeps down from the ice fields.

• Gloves or mittensEssential

  Your hands will get cold quickly in temperatures that average a high of only 41°F, so a good pair of gloves is a must.

• Scarf or buffRecommended

  A scarf provides an extra layer of defense against the damp chill, especially during a boat tour on the Gastineau Channel.

• Polarized sunglassesRecommended

  The spring sun reflecting off the vast snow and ice fields around Juneau creates significant glare, making sunglasses important for eye protection.

Gear

• Ice cleatsEssential

  Many of Juneau's popular trails, like those on Douglas Island, remain very icy in March, and ice cleats are essential for safe hiking.

• Trekking polesOptional

  For extra stability on slick or muddy trails near the Mendenhall Glacier, trekking poles can be a game-changer.

• Camera with weather protectionRecommended

  Protect your electronics from Juneau's 17 days of precipitation in March to safely capture the dramatic late-winter scenery.