Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari

Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari offers a balanced mix of rugged off-road driving and tranquil lake paddling, all set within Alaska’s stunning Tongass National Forest. Priced at $224 per person, this 4-hour tour from Ketchikan combines outdoor excitement with scenic beauty, making it ideal for those seeking adventure with a touch of nature and culture. The tour includes pickup service and a mobile ticket, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

One of the most praised aspects is the chance to drive or ride in a 4WD Jeep Wrangler® through lush rainforests and old logging roads, with guides providing informative commentary via two-way radios. Afterward, the journey continues with a paddle across Lake Harriet Hunt in a traditional Native American-style canoe that can carry up to 20 passengers. The tour is highly suitable for families, with a minimum age of 5, and for those with moderate physical fitness.

While some reviews mention logistical aspects that could be faster, the overall experience is valued for its beautiful vistas, knowledgeable guides, and delicious Alaskan snacks. Expect an active but not overly strenuous outing, perfect for visitors wanting a taste of wilderness and local culture without extensive physical demands.

Key Points

• Includes both Jeep off-road driving and paddling in a Native American-style canoe at Lake Harriet Hunt
• Tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with pickup and mobile tickets included
• Drive or ride in a 4WD Jeep Wrangler® through Tongass National Forest, with guided commentary
• Enjoy Alaskan-style snacks such as smoked salmon, clam chowder, bread, wild-berry jam, hot chocolate, and coffee
• Suitable for children ages 5 and up with a minimum weight requirement of 40 lbs
• Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee ensures on-time return to the ship or rescheduling if needed

Starting Point: Pickup and Transportation in Ketchikan

The tour begins with port pickup in Ketchikan, where attendees are transported to the activities center. This setup ensures convenience, especially after a relaxing cruise. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather is advised. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, maintaining a personal atmosphere with attentive guides.

Transportation includes a scenic motor coach drive back to Ketchikan after the activities conclude. The initial pickup, the jeep drive, canoe trip, and forest walk are all efficiently scheduled, although some reviews note that travel between sites can feel lengthy due to logistics.

Exploring the Tongass National Forest in a 4WD Jeep Wrangler®

The adventure kicks off with a safety briefing on operating a 4WD Jeep Wrangler®. Participants are placed into groups of four, with opportunities to switch drivers so everyone gets a chance behind the wheel or to enjoy a ride. The jeep drive lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, traversing mountain roads and rainforests deep within Tongass National Forest.

Guides share insights into the area’s geology and natural history over two-way radios, making the experience both fun and educational. The route passes through old-growth and new-growth forests, with stopping points at photo-worthy viewpoints. Some reviews mention that the jeep ride is best enjoyed by those comfortable with a bit of bumpiness and speed on muddy or rocky terrain, especially during rainy conditions.

Scenic Stops and Views from the Mountain Roads

During the jeep adventure, travelers will come across stunning vistas of the forest landscape and the surrounding wilderness. The viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for photography and appreciating Alaska’s lush scenery. Although wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, some enthusiasts wish for more wildlife during the drive.

The stops are spaced out with enough time for photos and taking in the scenery, making it a relaxed yet invigorating journey. The guides’ commentary enhances the experience by explaining local flora, fauna, and geological features.

Reaching Lake Harriet Hunt in a Traditional Canoe

The jeep ride concludes at Lake Harriet Hunt, where the next phase of the tour begins. Here, the Native American-style canoe, measuring 37 feet long and capable of carrying 20 passengers, awaits. This vessel is described as fast, stable, and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for all ages.

The canoe trip crosses the mountain lake, offering serene views and a chance to spot eagles, deer, moose, and even bears along the shoreline. The paddle across the lake takes about as long as the jeep drive, roughly 30 minutes, providing a peaceful contrast to the earlier adventure.

Guided Nature Walk and Forest Camp Snack Break

After reaching the shore, a guided nature walk takes you through the surrounding old-growth rainforest. Guides interpret the flora and fauna, making the walk both scenic and educational. Some reviews mention that additional exploration time in the forest would have been appreciated but is limited by the schedule.

The forest camp offers a snack break, featuring smoked salmon, clam chowder, fresh bread with wild-berry jam, and hot drinks like coffee or hot chocolate. The food is praised for being tasty and authentic, adding a satisfying element to the outdoor experience.

Wildlife and Photo Opportunities During the Forest Walk

While wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed, the guides’ commentary on local animals enhances the experience. The area is known for eagles, moose, and bears, and the scenery offers many photo opportunities during the walk and canoe trip.

The rainforest environment provides a lush backdrop, with towering trees and vibrant plant life. Weather conditions may vary, but the experience remains engaging and visually captivating.

Return Journey and Logistics

After the forest walk and snack, the tour concludes with a scenic motor coach drive back to Ketchikan. The worry-free guarantee ensures on-time return or arrangements for alternative transportation if the ship departs unexpectedly. The total duration of approximately 4 hours makes this a manageable half-day activity for cruise passengers.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

Participants must be at least 5 years old and weigh 40 lbs (18 kg) to use the provided life jackets. The tour involves moderate physical activity, including driving or riding in a jeep, paddling a canoe, and walking in the rainforest. It is suitable for people with moderate fitness levels but may be less ideal for those with mobility issues.

Food and Beverage Highlights

The Alaskan-style snacks form a key part of the experience, with smoked salmon and clam chowder standing out as favorites among reviewers. The bread rolls with wild-berry jam and hot chocolate create a cozy finish to the outdoor adventure, appreciated by many for their quality and authenticity.

Customer Experience and Guides

Many reviews praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Kaitlin, Jose, Sebastian, and Oliver. They excel in providing informative commentary, ensuring safety, and creating a lively, friendly atmosphere. The small group size and attentive service are frequently highlighted as positives, making the experience feel personalized.

Booking and Weather Considerations

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, travelers are advised to dress appropriately for rain or shine. The booking requires 48 hours’ notice and can be reserved up to 48 days in advance. Cancellations are non-refundable unless due to weather, in which case a replacement date or full refund is offered.

Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari: Final Thoughts

This tour provides a lively mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local culture within a manageable four-hour window. The off-road jeep drive through Tongass National Forest offers stunning views and wildlife potential, while the canoe crossing and forest walk deepen your connection with Alaska’s wilderness.

The delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and guaranteed on-time return make it a solid choice for active families and outdoor enthusiasts. Some logistical aspects, like the length of travel between stops, may be less exciting, but overall, the unique combination of driving, paddling, and walking delivers a memorable outdoor experience.

If you seek an adventure that showcases Alaska’s natural landscapes with a friendly guide and authentic local snacks, the Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari stands out as a well-rounded option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup in Ketchikan and transportation back to the port are included, with the entire experience lasting about 4 hours.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Children must be at least 5 years old and weigh at least 40 lbs to participate, making it suitable for most families.

Can I drive the Jeep or only ride?
Participants get to drive or ride in a 4WD Jeep Wrangler®, with opportunities to switch drivers during the drive.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for rain or shine, including waterproof clothing if necessary.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings like bears and moose are possible but not guaranteed; guides share information about local animals during the tour.

What is included in the snacks?
The snack break features smoked salmon, clam chowder, fresh bread with wild-berry jam, and hot chocolate or coffee.

How long is the canoe ride?
The canoe trip across Lake Harriet Hunt takes about 30 minutes each way, providing a peaceful lake experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
The experience is non-refundable unless canceled due to bad weather, in which case a full refund or alternate date is offered.

Is the tour suitable for physically less active guests?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness and meet age and weight requirements, the activities are accessible.

Who is the tour provider?
Alaska Travel Adventures Inc. organizes and guides this experience, ensuring professional and friendly service.

Where can I book this tour?
The tour is available through Viator, with booking details and availability on their website.

This detailed review highlights the adventure and scenery of the Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari, emphasizing its strengths and practical considerations. It promises a lively, scenic, and authentic outdoor experience rooted in Alaska’s wilderness.