Private Seaplane & Wilderness Hiking Tour to Tongass NF

Discover the Private Seaplane and Wilderness Hiking Experience in Juneau

This private tour offers an extraordinary chance to explore Tongass National Forest via floatplane and on foot, exclusively for groups of up to two people at $3,500. Spanning approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, the journey combines scenic aerial views with an immersive wilderness hike under guidance from seasoned experts. The tour provides a unique perspective on the Alaska rainforest and coastal zones, accessible only through this carefully curated experience.

Starting from Bear Creek Outfitters’ Ward Air base in Juneau, the tour features a scenic floatplane flight, a guided wilderness hike, and all necessary equipment, making it ideal for those seeking a private, in-depth adventure. While the tour requires good physical fitness, it is designed for those eager to explore remote landscapes in comfort and safety.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience for up to 2 participants at $3,500
• Approximately 5.5 hours of combined flight and hiking adventure
• Scenic floatplane flight over Tongass National Forest with 50 minutes of included flight time
• Guided wilderness hike lasting 3 hours, exploring rarely traveled rainforest and coastal zones
• All fees, taxes, and equipment—including rain gear, binoculars, and a wildlife spotting scope—are included
• Pickup and transfer are provided in an air-conditioned van from Juneau town

The Scenic Floatplane Flight Over Tongass National Forest

The adventure begins with a scenic floatplane flight lasting around 25 minutes each way. This airborne journey offers breathtaking views of Tongass National Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in North America. Passengers fly over Admiralty Island, Chichagof Island, or the Chilkat Peninsula—each offering stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife glimpses.

This part of the tour is a highlight for many, providing a bird’s-eye view of lush forests, rugged coastlines, and wildlife habitats. The included admission ticket covers the flight, weaving together the aerial and terrestrial parts of the experience seamlessly.

Arriving at Tongass National Forest for a Wilderness Hike

Once the floatplane lands, the group is dropped off in the wilderness for a 3-hour guided hike. The experienced guide helps navigate through rarely traveled rainforest and coastal zones, offering insights into the plants and animals encountered along the way. The hike typically follows a point-to-point route, with the guide organizing a different pickup location to enhance the adventure’s flexibility.

During the hike, participants enjoy up-close wildlife spotting using binoculars and a wildlife spotting scope, with safety gear like rain jackets provided. The guide’s expertise ensures a smooth journey through the terrain, making it suitable for physically fit travelers eager to experience Alaska’s pristine wilderness.

Included Amenities and Equipment for Comfort and Safety

This tour provides all necessary gear, including rain gear, binoculars, and a drybag to protect personal belongings. Snacks and bottled water keep participants energized amid the adventure, and the air-conditioned van offers comfortable transportation to and from Juneau.

The inclusion of all fees and taxes makes the pricing transparent, and the private nature of the tour guarantees an intimate experience away from crowds. The experience is designed to maximize safety and convenience, with a certified guide leading the way.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Accessibility

The tour starts at Bear Creek Outfitters’ Ward Air, located at 8991 Yandukin Drive in Juneau. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics. The tour is ideal for those with a strong physical fitness level, as it involves hiking on uneven terrain and stamina for outdoor activities.

While the tour offers pickup from Juneau, it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments. Confirmation of booking is provided immediately, and the activity relies heavily on good weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds if weather conditions cancel the experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart: An Intimate Wilderness Journey

This private tour emphasizes personalized guidance and exclusive access to remote areas of Tongass National Forest. The combination of scenic flight and guided hike offers a full-day immersion into Alaska’s lush ecosystems, far from crowded tourist spots.

The expert guides from Bear Creek Outfitters bring decades of local experience, enriching the adventure with educational insights about the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The use of specialized equipment like wildlife scopes enhances spotting opportunities, making every moment engaging and informative.

Limitations to Consider for Your Planning

The price point of $3,500 per group reflects the exclusivity and personalized nature of this experience. The tour is not refundable and cannot be changed, so travelers should plan accordingly. Weather dependency means that poor conditions could lead to cancellation, but rescheduling or full refunds are available.

Participants should be prepared for potentially challenging terrain and outdoor conditions, requiring good physical fitness. The tour does not cater to those with mobility impairments, focusing instead on active exploration in the wilderness.

Why This Tour Is Ideal for Adventure Seekers

For those eager for a private, highly personalized exploration of Alaska’s wilderness, this tour delivers a rare opportunity. It suits travelers looking for both scenic aerial views and immersive outdoor hiking in a remote setting. The focus on small-group intimacy ensures a tailored experience that emphasizes wildlife viewing and nature education.

While the cost is significant, the experience offers unmatched exclusivity and access to hard-to-reach locations in Tongass National Forest. This tour appeals especially to adventurers with an active lifestyle who want to discover Alaska’s natural beauty in comfort and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience demands a strong physical fitness level and involves outdoor hiking on uneven terrain. It is best suited for adults or physically fit teenagers; it is not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or very young children.

What are the weather conditions like?
The tour relies on good weather for the floatplane flight. If canceled due to poor weather, travelers are offered rescheduling options or a full refund.

What should I bring for the hike?
Since rain gear and binoculars are provided, travelers should wear comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, and bring personal items in the drybag. Light snacks and water are supplied.

How many people participate in this tour?
The private nature of the tour limits participation to up to 2 guests per booking, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, guiding services, equipment, snacks, bottled water, scenic floatplane flight, and private transportation to and from Juneau.

This private seaplane and wilderness hiking tour offers a rare and immersive way to explore Tongass National Forest, blending aerial vistas with terrestrial adventure. For those seeking a personalized, active, and scenic experience in Alaska’s wilderness, this tour provides a memorable journey into the heart of one of North America’s most pristine landscapes.