Mendenhall Valley, Juneau facts for kids
The Mendenhall Valley is a beautiful area in Juneau, Alaska. People often call it "The Valley." It's where the Mendenhall River flows, and it's the biggest place where people live in Juneau, which is Alaska's capital city.
This valley was shaped by the huge Mendenhall Glacier over about 3,000 years. It got its name from Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, an American scientist who studied physics and weather.
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About Mendenhall Valley
The Mendenhall Valley starts about ten miles from downtown Juneau. It stretches out for another ten miles to the west, ending near Auke Bay. This area includes the wet, marshy lands near Fritz Cove and Auke Bay. It also covers Mendenhall Lake and the Mendenhall River, which drains most of the valley.
How the Valley Formed
Imagine a giant ice river slowly moving! That's how the Mendenhall Glacier worked. Over thousands of years, this powerful glacier carved out the land, creating the valley we see today. It left behind lakes, rivers, and unique landscapes.
Living in the Valley
The Mendenhall Valley is a busy place with many neighborhoods. It's home to most of Juneau's people. You'll find many schools and churches here, making it a central part of the community.
Schools in the Valley
The valley has several schools for kids of all ages. There are four elementary schools: Auke Bay, Glacier Valley, Mendenhall River, and Riverbend. For older students, there's Floyd Dryden Middle School and Thunder Mountain High School.
Local Government
The Mendenhall Valley is part of Alaska's government system. It's the main part of the 34th state House district. This district is represented in the Alaska House of Representatives by Andi Story. The valley is also part of Senate District Q, which is represented in the Alaska Senate by Jesse Kiehl. These people are elected to speak for the community and help make laws for Alaska.
Places to Visit
The Mendenhall Valley has many interesting spots for visitors and locals alike. You can explore parks, natural areas, and even shopping centers.
- Adair-Kennedy Memorial Park
- Fritz Cove
- Heintzleman Ridge
- Juneau International Airport
- Mendenhall Glacier
- Mendenhall Lake
- Mendenhall Mall
- Mendenhall River
- Mendenhall Wetlands State Game Refuge
- Nugget Mall
- Diamond park
- Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
