Stikine River Wilderness Tour

Experience the Untouched Wilderness of the Stikine River

The Stikine River Wilderness Tour offers an incredible opportunity to explore one of North America’s last truly wild rivers. For $249 per person, this 4-hour boat journey takes place in Alaska, starting from Wrangell. The tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, with the chance to see moose, bald eagles, and black bears along the riverbanks, all while enjoying the comfort of a heated cabin and forward-facing seating.

Operating with a small group maximum of 15 travelers, this tour emphasizes personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The custom high-speed boat ensures a smooth ride through braided river channels, making the experience accessible for most participants. The tour is highly rated, with two reviews giving it a perfect 5 out of 5, confirming its popularity and quality.

Navigating the Braided Channels of the Stikine River

The journey begins in Wrangell, a charming town surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways. From there, the custom high-speed boat heads into the braided channels of the Stikine River, renowned for its glacier-fed waters and rugged scenery. The braided river system presents a dynamic landscape of intertwining waterways, creating numerous opportunities for wildlife sightings and scenic photo stops.

As the boat glides through these channels, visitors can expect to see wildlife along the shoreline, including moose and eagles, with the possibility of spotting black bears. The untouched natural environment and the flowing waters make this segment particularly captivating, offering a real sense of remote Alaska. The knowledgeable captain and guide are attentive to wildlife activity, aiming to maximize viewing opportunities.

Visiting Shakes Lake and the Calving Shakes Glacier

One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at Shakes Lake, a glacial lake filled with floating icebergs originating from Shakes Glacier. Fed by the actively calving glacier, the lake provides a rare look at glacial ice and pristine wilderness. Visitors can expect to drift among icebergs and enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery surrounding the lake.

Shakes Lake is a remote, stunning sight, offering a peaceful environment to take in the glacial landscape. The tour’s focus on glacial beauty allows guests to witness the power of Shakes Glacier as it calves ice into the lake, an experience few get to see firsthand. The calm setting at the lake provides excellent opportunities for photography and quiet reflection amidst rugged mountain peaks.

The Charm of Wrangell as a Starting Point

Wrangell, the embarkation point for this tour, is a historic town in the Inside Passage. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways, Wrangell offers access to glaciers, wildlife, and Native Tlingit culture. Its picturesque streets and welcoming atmosphere make it a pleasant base before setting off on the river adventure.

The tour begins at 4 Front St, with a seamless check-in process confirmed through mobile ticketing. Being near public transportation makes it easy to reach the meeting point. After the tour, guests return to the same spot, completing this easy-to-access wilderness experience.

What’s Included in the Tour Price

The $249 fee covers much of what makes this trip enjoyable. Snacks and water are provided to keep guests refreshed during the journey, and there is a restroom onboard for convenience. The heated cabin and comfortable forward-facing seats enhance the experience, especially in Alaska’s cooler climate.

A knowledgeable local captain and guide lead the trip, sharing insights into the landscape, wildlife, and glaciers. This local expertise adds depth to the journey, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s an educational adventure into Alaska’s wilderness.

What to Bring and What’s Not Included

Guests are encouraged to bring their own lunch, as lunch is not included in the tour price. The tour provides snacks and water, but bringing additional food can help sustain energy during the 4-hour trip. Since the trip takes place outdoors and involves boat travel, dressing in layers and weather-appropriate clothing is advisable.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if plans change or weather appears uncertain. The tour operates in good weather conditions; if canceled due to poor weather, guests will be offered a different date or full refund.

The Experience of Wildlife Viewing in the Alaska Wilderness

The wildlife sightings are a major draw of this tour. Past descriptions highlight mama moose with a calf swimming through the river, along with seals and an abundance of bald eagles. The guide’s attentiveness and local knowledge help maximize opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

The combination of wildlife, floating ice from glaciers, and untouched landscapes makes this tour especially rewarding for nature enthusiasts. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with fewer crowds and closer encounters with nature.

The Scenic Beauty of Glacial Lakes and Mountain Views

The journey features spectacular scenery, from the steep-walled canyons of the river to the rugged mountain peaks surrounding Shakes Lake. The floating icebergs and glacial valleys create a truly picturesque setting, perfect for photography or quiet admiration.

This tour provides a rare glimpse of glacier calving and the chance to witness Shakes Glacier actively shedding ice into the lake. The scenery is both dramatic and serene, giving visitors a profound sense of Alaska’s raw wilderness.

Accessibility and Group Size Considerations

Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere that appeals to those seeking a personalized experience. The heated cabin and comfortable seating make it accessible to most guests, including those who may prefer a more relaxed outing.

The meeting point at 4 Front St in Wrangell is conveniently located near public transportation options, easing logistics. The tour is designed to be suitable for most most travelers, with no strenuous activity involved.

Summary of the Tour’s Value

The Stikine River Wilderness Tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, glacial scenery, and remote wilderness all within a manageable 4-hour trip. The expert local guide and comfortable boat ensure a smooth and informative experience.

While lunch is not included, the snacks, water, and onboard amenities make the trip comfortable and enjoyable. Its free cancellation policy adds flexibility, and the small group size means more personalized attention. This tour suits visitors who want a deep, scenic exploration of Alaska’s wild rivers, glaciers, and wildlife without the need for an extended trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, though some trips have been reported to extend to 5 hours.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $249 per person, which includes snacks, water, and onboard amenities.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 4 Front St, Wrangell, AK.

Is there wildlife to see along the trip?
Yes, moose, bald eagles, seals, and black bears can be seen along the river shoreline.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring lunch, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a camera for scenic views and wildlife.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable for a wide audience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, with full refunds available.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
If canceled due to poor weather, guests will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, a knowledgeable local captain and guide lead the experience, sharing insights into the landscape and wildlife.

What makes this tour special?
The trip’s remote river setting, active glacier calving, and wildlife sightings make it a distinctive way to experience Alaska’s pristine natural environment.