Day Hikes
Get out and explore Alaska’s incredible landscapes with Voyij’s curated day hikes. These accessible adventures offer stunning views, wildlife sightings, and glacier overlooks—all in a single day. Whether you’re on a cruise stop or planning a scenic trail outing, our day hikes are perfect for travelers who want big nature without the overnight gear.
41 Activities
Rainforest Sanctuary, Totem Park & Eagles
The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a 40-acre private preserve of temperate rainforest bordering the Tongass National Forest. Take a guided nature walk exploring the wildlife and ecology of the preserve. Visit a historic sawmill, explore a totem park, and view a featured raptor at the Alaska Raptor Center Ketchikan exhibit. Here’s how your rainforest exploration will surprise and delight you. You’ll start out with a scenic eight-mile coastal drive to rustic Herring Cove and the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a temperate rainforest, nestled into the Tongass National Forest. When you arrive, a naturalist guide will be on hand to take you on a 0.75 mile guided rainforest exploration along an improved trail amongst stands of hemlock, spruce and cedar trees. The forest floor is covered with mosses, wild flowers and a variety of berries. Your guide will lead you to a protected open estuary where you follow Herring Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. During the seasonal spawning season, bears and seals feed on salmon in Herring Creek. Bald eagles and other birds wait for scraps in the estuary. Sitka black tail deer, mink and marten also frequent the area. Weather, tides, and seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels and type of wildlife activity. Everything here is alive with color and cultural history. After your trail walk your opportunity to learn about the natural history, wildlife and cultural traditions in the region continues. You’ll be guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, seeing saws and machinery that powered this mill. Keep your camera ready as you see a bald eagle at the Alaska Raptor Center exhibit. Explore the first Tsimshian totem pole park in the country with its impressive 40-foot totem and 13 poles carved by the same artist. Before your return to town visit the General Store and pick up a souvenir of your uniquely Alaskan experience.
Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing - Departs from Skagway
Leave the crowds behind on this fun nature and wildlife viewing trip! From Skagway, the trip begins with a 45-minute ferry ride along the steep-walled fjords connecting Skagway to Haines. Over a dozen unnamed waterfalls drop hundreds of feet from the cliff sides on both sides of the boat. Marvel at the scenery and look for humpback whales, harbor seals, and bald eagles. Arrive in Haines, and meet your naturalist guide for a small-group driving tour to scenic and wildlife-rich Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all: a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears are often seen here. As you drive through the park, your guide knows the best places to stop for scenery and the possibility of wildlife spotting. Supplied with extra binoculars and a powerful spotting scope to bring the wildlife in close, your guide explains how the animals fit into the Chilkoot's complex ecosystem. May, June, and July feature an explosion of wildflowers with bald eagles nesting along the lush river. Beginning in August, pink salmon-the smallest and most abundant of the Pacific salmon varieties-begin their run up the Chilkoot River to spawn. This is the best opportunity to see brown bears as they are often witnessed feeding along the banks of the river. Make sure to bring your camera to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities.
Haines Bike, Hike & Brew
See the sites in beautiful Haines, Alaska, followed by a sampling of a locally brewed beer! We meet at our bike shop for bike fitting and orientation. From our shop, it’s a scenic 2-mile coastal ride to the Battery Point trailhead. We’ll hike a mile and a half through the spruce, hemlock, and cottonwood rainforest environment on a well-maintained trail to the beach at Battery Point. This is a great place to spot seals, sea lions, whales, and many types of birds. We’ll hike back out to our bikes and ride along the waterfront into town, stopping at a great photo spot. From there, we bike up to the Haines Brewing Company to sample their locally crafted beers (root beer and tea are also available.) The Haines Brewing Company occupies a state-of-the-art building on Main St. in downtown Haines. We’ll stop in and sample three 5 oz. pours of their locally crafted beers. After tasting we’ll ride the final mile back to our bike shop to finish the tour. E-Bikes are available for this tour. Guests can choose to use a Trek Verve+ 2 E-Bike for the riding portion of this tour.
Denali Private Full-Day Adventure
Are you ready to get out and explore Denali and nearby surroundings? Our private day trips are the perfect opportunity for you to get an insider's view on the area with an expert local guide and begin your exploration of this magnificent place! Our private day trips are designed to meet the abilities and interests of your group. Whether the priority is to hike, identify the flora and fauna, capture photos, or simply to have a professional, local Alaskan guide take you on a sightseeing adventure—we will customize the day specifically for you. We like to get away from crowds and maintained trails and show visitors our wild Alaska backyard.
Island Hummer Tour
A "Guest Preference Card” is provided at the time of booking to ensure we meet your needs and provide the very best customer service. Highlights and attractions are sure to please the history buff, native arts & culture enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, and nature lover. Your expedition begins the moment your guide greets you- Indiana Jones style! Whether it be at the ramp of your cruise ship, your gate at the airport, the lobby of your hotel, or any place of convenience for you. Custom stops can include but are not limited to shopping, dining, or exploring just about anything on the island. Wildlife stops can be made at any time the opportunity arises. All tours are fully guided. Please note this is not an off-roading tour. The venues to choose from include: wildlife viewing areas, waterfalls, totem pole parks, historic city tour, walks or hikes through the gorgeous rainforest, panoramic views of Ketchikan and the surrounding islands, museums and attractions including the Totem Heritage Center, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, and the Tongass Historical Museum. While it is not possible to do everything listed, we do want you to know some of the options available. Our guide will go over your interests and proposed itinerary at the beginning of the tour. This will help us prepare the best custom tour for you! *City tour of Ketchikan Rainforest / beach walk - a stroll through the rainforest leading out onto one of Ketchikan's favorite beaches *Potlatch Park - a family owned Totem Park with totem poles carved by a local carver, a clan house, and access to one of Ketchikan's scenic shorelines *Totem Bight State Park - this beautiful state park offers a unique totem circle, clan house, and access to one of Ketchikan's scenic shorelines *Ward Creek Trail - watch for wildlife as you stroll a trail through the Tongass National Rainforest leading to a great view of Ward Creek *Lunch Creek Trail - this trail starts slowly and gradually as you increase in elevation and wind through a scenic rainforest trail *Herring Cove - the cove's unique mix of salt and freshwater provide the opportunity to see unique seasonal wildlife *Beaver Falls - a beautiful waterfall just south of town *Saxman Native Village and Totem Park - the world's largest collection of authentic totem poles; take a walk through the park and learn about the history and importance of Northwest Coast native culture
Chugach State Park Nature Walk
• Take a nature walk to Chugach State Park's photogenic, Glen Alps! • An easy, brief, and compelling experience designed for all to enjoy. • Perfect for families with children! • Learn about boreal forests and glaciated valleys through the voice of a naturalist. • Opportunity for wildlife sightings, including moose, bear, and birds. • Provisions include a granola bar. This is the perfect tour if you are looking to go on an easy hike, learn about Alaska’s vegetation and animal populations, and see the Chugach State Park’s most photogenic locations. Depending on the season, we'll either visit the best waterfall in the Chugach State Park, Barbara Falls, or we'll head up high to the Glen Alps where alpine paradise awaits. Wild geraniums, bluebells, and forget-me-nots pop up in June and blissful blueberries, funky fungi, and changing colors tell us when summer is ending. Moose and bear birth their young in spring and mate during the fall months. They travel through the mountains and valleys in search of their favorite browse, providing ample opportunity for wildlife viewing and photography. The flora and fauna of the Chugach State Park tell us a story of various ecosystems living in harmony just outside of Anchorage. Experience in-depth education about the salmon life cycle and impacts to our environment by rapidly changing climate and societal challenges. It's a one-of-a-kind, comprehensive tour awaiting your intrigue. If you’re ready to see the natural wonders lying just outside of Anchorage, then join us today!
Alpine Classic Trek
HIGHLIGHTS: • Trek one of Chugach State Park's finest ridgelines with a top-tier guide! • Perfect for solo travelers and couples. Challenge and reward await! • Enjoy breathtaking views of Anchorage and interior Chugach Mountains. • Learn about Alaska's alpine forests & tundra environment from a naturalist. • Opportunity for wildlife sightings including bear, sheep, marmot and birds! • Provisions include a granola bar, apple, and cheese stick. TOUR DESCRIPTION: This is quite-the-quintessential Alaska hiking experience. You should pick this adventure if you are looking for a hearty challenge with rewarding sights and a ton of payoff. Experience the thrill of ascending to heights offering 360-degree views of the nearby Cook Inlet and interior Chugach mountains. Gaze at deep, glaciated, u-shaped valleys, and giant ridgelines defining the landscape. Imagine pristine, treeless, tundra loaded with vegetation that you can touch, taste, and feel. If you have never seen alpine before, prepare to be amazed. Ridgeline trekking is an incredibly unique way to see the landscape. While the ascent can be tough, once you arrive at the top, it is truly remarkable. You can see forever! On a clear day, we can even see Mt. Denali hundreds of miles away! Plus, the terrain can be fairly flat, making the trekking a truly enjoyable experience. During the tour, we may see moose, bear, Dall sheep, mountain goats, and a variety of small mammals like arctic squirrels and marmots. There are also plenty of birds to gaze at like bald eagles, thrushes, chickadees, and jays. This is one of our favorite ways to experience Alaska and the Chugach State Park. What do you say, are you in?!
Summer Valley & Forest Hike
HIGHLIGHTS: • Experience hiking in Chugach State Park's Eagle River trail system and Barbara Falls! • Perfect for solo travelers and couples. • Enjoy breathtaking views of towering vistas. Amazing landscapes await! • Learn about Alaska's boreal forests and glaciated valleys from a skilled naturalist. • Opportunity for wildlife viewing including, salmon, bear, moose and birds. • Provisions include a granola bar, apple, and cheese stick. TOUR DESCRIPTION: Experience the wonders found in one of the Chugach State Park's fondest, glaciated valleys. On this tour, we will take you to the glorious Eagle River trail system where boreal forests, and salmon spawning streams are found. This trail network also hosts the renowned "Crow Pass", which is part of the historic Iditarod trail system once used by dog sleds and mushers. The route is approximately 6 miles in length and is not too strenuous, which allows most people to participate. Eagle River hosts amazing phenomena and a rich ecology that you will learn about from our skilled naturalists. You will see photogenic birch and aspen trees mixed with giant spruces, as well as smaller brushes like willows, alders, and devil's club. Imagine endless varieties of edible berries, and fascinating fungi. If they are in-season, we will try a few! We may see moose, Dall sheep, and even a bear on this tour. Plus, there are many species of small mammals and birds we could encounter, too. If you are looking for a moderate hike with beautiful Alaskan sights and sounds, this is your pick. After you've had your fill of the Eagle River Valley, we head over to iconic Barbara Falls for some up-close waterfall action! What are you waiting for? Book today!
Winter Waterfall Fun
Barbara Falls is the best waterfall to visit in the Chugach State Park, especially when covered in ice. With the falls literally minutes away from the trailhead, it is a MUST-DO for any visitor OR Alaskan resident. We start the tour by following the gorgeous South Fork Eagle River, pausing to observe the incredible ice-dam formations created by frigid-cold and fast-moving water. Ice crystals appear to grow from the surface of the water, slowing and raising the water level in terrific ways. Just minutes later, we arrive at the base of the magical 25-foot waterfall where you see shimmering icicles, fascinating ice bridges, and falling water frozen-in-time. After stocking up a store of photos to show your friends and family, we embark on a short nature walk. You will see stunning vegetation living within a diverse boreal forest. Towering species such as white spruces, paper birches, and aspens drape the frozen ground below. We will explain intriguing biological mysteries happening within the lichen, mosses, and trees that surround us. We could also see local wildlife, such as moose, snowshoe hare, rodents, and birds. The ecology of the area is truly a sight to be seen! Afterward, we'll have you back with plenty of time for another tour or your favorite food and beverage.
Winter Valley & Forest Hike
• Hike along Chugach State Park's Eagle River and see ice-covered Barbara Falls! • Perfect for solo travelers and couples. • Enjoy breathtaking views of towering vistas. Amazing landscapes await your camera! • Learn about glaciated valleys and boreal forests from an experienced guide. • Opportunity for wildlife sightings, including moose, hare, voles, and porcupine! • Provisions include a granola bar, apple, and cheese stick. We will provide micro-spikes for icy terrain. TOUR DESCRIPTION: If you have never been on a hike during the winter, you need to give it a shot. Winter hiking is a blast, and it is great for the mind and body during the long periods of dark and cold. The route is approximately 4 miles in length, but is not too strenuous, allowing most people to participate. We will begin by visiting the Chugach State Park's best waterfall, Barbara Falls. What a sight to behold! Afterwards, we will head to the confluence of North and South Fork Eagle River where a clearing in the woods exposes the Chugach mountains for miles. This is a perfect location to take amazing photos. Onward we will go through snow covered spruces while keeping an eye out for wildlife. If Eagle River is frozen, we will have the opportunity of hiking on top of it, which is really a treat! We may see the "American Dipper" swimming in an unfrozen tributary warmed by geothermal heat. They swim in water when the air temperature is below freezing to keep warm. We may also see moose, small mammals like the snowshoe hare or red fox, and rodents such as the porcupine or voles. This valley is filled with a comprehensive variety of the natural elements found in the boreal forests of Alaska. Afterwards, we hop back in the vehicle and head over to mighty Barbara Falls, a local waterfall hidden amongst the forest. Barbara Falls is covered in a THICK shell of ice in the winter, and is, in our opinion, best seen in the winter! Need we say more? Join now!
Available Timing
Backcountry Eats & Foraging Treats
Looking for a tasty tour that has a little of everything? Then, spending a half-day with us at the Talkeetna Lakes or Chugach State Park is your #1 option. This is a great pick for families with younger kids, as well as a great opportunity for seeing the quaint community of Talkeetna on your way to interior Alaska. On this one-of-a-kind daytrip, you’ll learn how to for wild Alaskan edibles, experience world-class hiking, and our specialty, the art of backcountry cooking. As part of the adventure, we’ll also take a thrilling drive by majestic mountains, braided rivers, thick woodlands. Upon arrival, our experienced guide(s) will let you know what to expect, and give you tips for spending the day safely in the Alaskan wilderness. Then, we’ll hit the trails in search of Talkeetna’s/Chugach's finest ingredients. Depending on the season, we could uncover wild greens, edible wildflowers, fiddlehead ferns, fireweed shoots, mushrooms, berries, and so much more. All of which, we have the opportunity of taking back to the campsite for education on how to prepare, cook, and eat using backcountry equipment and supplies. Finally, after a delicious backcountry dessert our guides will say goodbye, it's on to your lodging destination for a relaxing end to your dream-day. Are you ready to explore your wild like the locals? Book this trip and we guarantee you an experience of a lifetime!
Available Timing
Rainforest And Waterfalls Trek
Join one of our certified naturalist guides for an unforgettable journey through the largest temperate rainforest in the world. Your naturalist guide will take you on a 2-4 mile hike that will offer breathtaking views of waterfalls, the Tongass National Forest, and the world-famous Mendenhall Glacier. Your expert guide will provide interpretation along the way and share information about this unique and amazing ecosystem and its inhabitants. Possible wildlife sightings include: black bears, American bald eagles, wild Alaskan salmon, porcupines, and more! Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska, stretch your legs, and get some exercise on this incredible outdoor adventure.
Denali Heli Hiking Expedition
Explore the mountains just outside Denali National Park with a chance to view Denali, Mt Deborah, and local wildlife! Set off on your adventure at our private helipad where you will fly with one of our experienced pilots along with a naturalist expert of the area with over twenty years of experience in the Denali National Park area. From here, fly over the mountainous terrain of the Alaskan Backcountry keeping an eye out from wildlife (caribou, moose, bear, and dall sheep) on your way to a landing zone custom-picked by your guide to suite your desires and hiking ability. Whether your hope is to climb a steep slope to a mountainous ridge overlooking the peaks and valleys of the vast surroundings or wander the gentle tundra in search of an encounter with Alaska's wildlife, the heli-hike is a guided tour tailor-made for your personal desires. Experience the peace and solitude the true Alaskan wilderness has to offer, gain an appreciation for the nature untampered by human hands, and prepare to let your mind expand and your thoughts flow as your legs begin to navigate through the great unknown! On this tour, you’ll explore remote areas that are normally a full day’s hike away. Immediately after lifting off from our private riverside heliport, you will take in the breathtaking birds-eye view of the remote Alaskan wilderness. An exhilarating flight will bring you to our hiking area located just beyond the boundaries of Denali National Park. Once there, your guide will lead you on a gentle tailor-made trek above the tree line. Your naturalist guide will extend knowledge on local flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky – catch a glimpse of the wildlife in person. Relax on the hillside while enjoying a light snack. The hike will leave you with unforgettable views of rolling tundra and alpine ridgelines. This tour is limited to small groups in order to accommodate varying levels of mobility and guest desires.
Denali Tundra Express With Landing
Explore the mountains just outside Denali National Park with a chance to view Denali, Mt Deborah, and local wildlife! Enjoy this breathtaking helicopter ride through the peaks and valleys that make up the Alaska Range. Just moments after taking off from our riverside heliport, you will find yourself immersed deep in the Alaskan backcountry. As you explore the mountains just outside Denali National Park, look below for local wildlife or keep your eyes on the horizon for a chance to see Mt. Denali, North America's tallest mountain, or Mt. Deborah, her impressive sister to the east. You will set down on the soft, alpine tundra giving you the opportunity to step out and into the scenic landscape. With the pilot as your guide, take this opportunity to explore the local ecosystem, scan for local wildlife, snap a flurry of keepsake photographs, or just sink your feet into the tundra and breathe in the crisp mountain air.
Matanuska Glacier Ice Fall Trek from Anchorage
Enjoy a first-hand view of Beautiful Matanuska Glacier! *About the Glacier and the Hike: Glaciers are responsible for shaping and forming this great land, and Alaska has more than one thousand of these frozen rivers. Since the Matanuska Glacier is so accessible, we help visitors explore this wonderful environment on many different levels. Our guides are chosen for their experience and their desire to work and play in bold environments. A zest for life and a caring attitude makes all of us proud to share this unique Alaska experience. Glacier hiking is for virtually everyone! With the proper equipment and an experienced guide, explore the hidden treasures of the Matanuska Glacier. The Matanuska Glacier is one of the few Alaskan glaciers accessible by car. It is located 2 hours NE of Anchorage. With just a short hike, you can be standing on an enormous river of ice, exploring the natural wonders of the majestic glacier. Glacier hiking is an all-weather activity. However, when the weather is bad in and around Anchorage, it is often sunny on the glacier. This is due to a phenomenon in which the cold air of the glacier forces the warm valley air upward and into the surrounding peaks causing a weather hole. So come to the sunny Matanuska Glacier for an unforgettable experience. *Trip Highlights: - A truly Alaskan Adventure on the Matanuska Glacier. - Discover the amazing Blue Ice, Crevasses, and other unique formations. - Stand on a high-point with amazing views of the great Ice Fall. - Stand on 1,000-year-old Ice. - This is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Available Timing
Gold Panning at Clear Creek and Exit Glacier Nature Hike Combo
This 2.5 hr. Exit Glacier nature hike and the Gold Panning at Clear Creek panning area located on Adventure Sixty North property is great for, viewing a glacier without getting on the ice and combining a bit of Alaskan history by learning how to find gold in a gold pan the Alaskan way! We will hike with you and provide a bit of glacier knowledge and local interpretive information as we hike to the toe overlook of Exit Glacier. The Gold panning demonstration and panning adventure will happen at our Clear Creek panning site on our property using our rustic water troughs, and our tarp-covered log structure for protection from wind and rain. Everyone finds gold and other semi-precious stones, we don't know how much you will find, but we do guarantee that you will at least find flakes of the precious mineral that is included with our pay dirt. You keep what you find, we supply the pans, local information, a bit of history mixed with a bit of geology, humor, instruction, and glass vials for your gold specimens and a container for your semi-precious stones. Garnets, Fluorite, Quartz, Red Jasper, and many others. About Gold Panning: We will teach you the ropes with a gold panning demonstration in our elevated troughs by our rustic gift shop. Personalized how-to demonstrations will have you panning like a pro while providing some local humor and history along the way. Truly an Alaskan experience! Where we pan for gold: The canvas-covered log-framed structure where we pan for gold is located just across from our walking bridge, between our office and the gift shop. Depending on the salmon run, we can often spy salmon in the creek. The covered troughs allow us to stay dry while panning, which makes this the perfect activity, rain or shine! We pan in elevated wooden troughs with proven pay dirt so there is a possibility of everyone taking home their very own Alaskan Gold and gems! Find more than gold: Learn how to pan, searching for gold and semi-precious stones that we also find around Alaska. Some treasures can include, Red Jasper, Hemalyke, Fluorite, Quartz, Amethyst, Red Agate, Tourmaline, and Garnet. About Exit Glacier Hike: This 2.5 hr. hiking adventure is great for, viewing a glacier without getting on the ice, families, groups, or adventurers with limited time to experience the beauty of a glacier in Seward, Alaska. These trips are offered morning and afternoon. Masks are required for the shuttle transportation and the hiking shuttle by everyone! Federal regulations, CDC, Local and State rules and regulations apply! Drivers will take temp before boarding the shuttle and those with fever will not be permitted to board. Safety First! What To Expect: This trip departs from Adventure Sixty North at the north end of Seward. We will shuttle you from and to your local B&B, local campground, and local Hotels at no cost! We will head to Exit Glacier to begin your hike with knowledgeable guides. As we drive out to the glacier, we will stop at the pull-out for a great view of Exit Glacier, a definite photo moment! Our shuttle van will also stop at the Kenai Fjords National Park welcome sign for a photo opportunity! The visitor center stop is a favorite of our guests and after that brief stop, we are all about the hike to the overlook where you will be looking down onto the toe of the Exit Glacier. What to Consider: This hiking experience goes rain or shine, there can be a definite change in temperature as you get close to the glacier with breezes blowing down from the Ice Field. We recommend that you take an extra layer if you typically are cold-natured. The hiking trail is a partially black-toped trail that turns into an undeveloped hiking trail which can be slippery and challenging to people that are not used to hiking nature trails. At points, you will hike on gravel, rock and encounter a narrow beam bridge crossing small drainage. If you consider yourself unstable with walking on an undeveloped trail as described, we recommend that you not participate in this hike for your safety!
Exit Glacier Nature Hike with Guide
This 2.5 hr. hiking adventure is great for, viewing a glacier without getting on the ice, families, groups, or adventurers with limited time to experience the beauty of a glacier in Seward, Alaska. These trips are offered morning and afternoon. Masks are required for the shuttle transportation and the hiking shuttle by everyone! Federal regulations, CDC, Local and State rules and regulations apply! Drivers will take temp before boarding the shuttle and those with fever will not be permitted to board. Safety First! What To Expect: This trip departs from Adventure Sixty North at the north end of Seward. We will shuttle you from and to your local B&B, local campground, and local Hotels at no cost! We will head to Exit Glacier to begin your hike with knowledgeable guides. As we drive out to the glacier, we will stop at the pull-out for a great view of Exit Glacier, a definite photo moment! Our shuttle van will also stop at the Kenai Fjords National Park welcome sign for a photo opportunity! The visitor center stop is a favorite of our guests and after that brief stop, we are all about the hike to the overlook where you will be looking down onto the toe of the Exit Glacier. What to Consider: This hiking experience goes rain or shine, there can be a definite change in temperature as you get close to the glacier with breezes blowing down from the Ice Field. We recommend that you take an extra layer if you typically are cold-natured. The hiking trail is a partially black-toped trail that turns into an undeveloped hiking trail which can be slippery and challenging to people that are not used to hiking nature trails. At points, you will hike on gravel, rock and encounter a narrow beam bridge crossing small drainage. If you consider yourself unstable with walking on an undeveloped trail as described, we recommend that you not participate in this hike for your safety!
Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour
Travel the scenic Glenn Highway through the spectacular Matanuska Valley. Explore the face of the Matanuska Glacier with an expert glacier guide. Amazing photo opportunities!
Available Timing
Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing - Haines Departure
Meet your naturalist guide for a small-group driving tour to scenic and wildlife-rich Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all: a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears are often seen here. As you drive through the park, your guide knows the best places to stop for scenery and the possibility of wildlife spotting. Supplied with extra binoculars and a powerful spotting scope to bring the wildlife in close, your guide explains how the animals fit into the Chilkoot's complex ecosystem. May, June, and July feature an explosion of wildflowers with bald eagles nesting along the lush river. Beginning in August, pink salmon-the smallest and most abundant of the Pacific salmon varieties-begin their run up the Chilkoot River to spawn. This is the best opportunity to see brown bear as they are often witnessed feeding along the banks of the river. Make sure to bring your camera to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities.
Hatcher Pass Hike & History Tour
This half-day afternoon excursion from Anchorage includes a local guide, our signature tour at Independence Mine State Historical Park, a gold panning demo & time at the creek with a pan (rental included!) as well as an interpretive hike along the Mill Loop Trail. Begin this unique Alaska adventure as we drive north from Anchorage along the Kink Arm, we will pass through the town of Palmer, a community with farmland now famous for growing record-breaking produce like the 2,051-pound pumpkin! As we ascend the Talkeetna Mountains, we’ll enter the breathtaking alpine area known as Hatcher Pass. Take an interpretive walk through the abandoned Independence Mine State Historical Park Visitor Center. Following this 45-minute tour, enjoy a panning demonstration & time at the creek where we commonly find 3 or 4 flakes in each pan! Following our time at the creek, enjoy a guided hike along the Mill Loop Trail. The Mill Loop trail is an easy .9 mile trail with 177ft elevation gain. Already at 3500ft in elevation in the Talkeetna Mountains, the views are incredible! This short trail above Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass is family-friendly and will provide an introduction to the flora & fauna of the tundra. Common wildlife sightings consist of arctic ground squirrels and marmots – if you don’t see them you will hear them whistle at you! This tour includes complimentary snacks including popcorn from Bunkhouse #2 and water.
Available Timing
Black Bear Express
Ketchikan's finest bear viewing accessible by road! Visit Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary for this unique opportunity to see black bear in their native habitat. Watch for bears from the safety of the raised boardwalks which maximize your viewing and provide protection. This is a short tour focused on opportunity to view bears. Your experience will start with a narrated tour through Ketchikan, followed by a scenic coastal drive to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. Within a very short time, you’ll find yourself in bear country. The only drive to bear viewing areas in Southeast Alaska…. This tour offers the same duration for black bear viewing as our comprehensive Black Bear & Wildlife Exploration tour. However, it is streamlined to exclusively focus on black bear sightings, omitting the additional time allocated for exploring our mini-features on site. This experience is curated strictly for seeing black bears in their natural habitat. When you arrive at the sanctuary, naturalist guides will join you, bringing the rich forest to life as you walk along an improved trail. You’ll be surrounded by magnificent stands of spruce, hemlock and cedar trees. And soon you’ll be watching for wild bears in search of spawning salmon and ample berries. These are safe, protected raised boardwalks, exclusively for bear tours only. You can expect to have an intimate viewing experience and to reduce environmental impacts, only a limited number of groups have access to this private bear viewing area. Your guide will lead you along another boardwalk system perched over the grassy wetlands alongside Herring Creek. You’ll have the chance to observe a rich run of spawning salmon and the bears and seals that come to fish for them, along with bald eagles and other birds that wait for scraps in the tidal estuary nearby. Your transportation will be waiting to pick you up where the tour began. *Please Note: The half-mile long trail is over relatively flat terrain. The focus of your tour will be on viewing black bear in their natural habitat. Your guide may change the order of the tour or time spent in any one area to give you the best chance to see bears. Although the chances for seeing bear are excellent, wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The wildlife viewing time is approximately 60 minutes. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No food or drink is allowed on the trail. You must follow your guide’s instructions at all times to ensure your safety. *ABOUT ALASKA RAINFOREST SANCTUARY In the heart of the Tongass National Forest lies Kawanti Adventures’ very own Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is known for its forest trails and boardwalk system that leads to an open estuary complete with a creek running out to the famous Herring Cove. The sanctuary is a hot spot for all wildlife, but specifically bald eagles and black bear.
Chilkoot Trail Hike, Float, and Summit Drive Tour
This excursion retraces the footsteps of the Klondike Gold Rush stampeeders over the historic Chilkoot Trail and float back down on the beautiful Taiya River. Tour the spectacular views of alpine lakes, towering snow-capped peaks, and pristine forest on a drive to the summit of the picturesque White Pass. Your excursion begins at the dock. After a safety orientation, board a van and drive through Skagway to the backcountry and the historic town of Dyea. Hike the first two miles of the scenic Chilkoot Trail, the centerpiece of gold rush history in Skagway. This world-famous trail was the main route to the riches of the Klondike during the gold rush. Now a tranquil place of incredible beauty, the trail winds through a lush rainforest alive with birds, animals, and wildflowers. Enjoy the exercise, fresh air, beautiful scenery, pristine forests, and history of a bygone era as the trail takes you up and over the 350' tall Saintly Hill. Along the way, your tour guide weaves an entertaining mix of natural history and Klondike folklore. Photo opportunities abound as you retrace the footsteps of the gold-hungry stampeders who forged this route over 100 years ago. Arrive at the banks of the Taiya River, where your 18-foot raft awaits for the scenic float (no whitewater) back to Dyea. The forest gives way to fields of beach greens and wild iris, and the granite walls of the fjords rise steeply to the snow-capped peaks and hanging glaciers. Enjoy a riverside snack of homemade cookies and a hot beverage with countless picture-perfect moments before loading up in the van and continuing the tour up to the White Pass summit. We’ll drive for about 45 minutes from the take-out to the top of the scenic White Pass. There are many photo opportunities of beautiful alpine lakes, glaciers, towering snowcapped peaks and pristine forests. After enjoying the spectacular scenery, we’ll return through the U.S. Border station and return to the town of Skagway. *Timings: (~10 minutes) - Your friendly guide will meet you near the Skagway Small Boat harbor sign and restrooms. Here they will take the opportunity to get to know you and provide answers to any questions that you might have about your upcoming excursion. (~35 minutes) - From the small boat harbor we’ll board a van and head toward Dyea and the Chilkoot Trail. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a driving town tour of Skagway and the scenic coastal gravel road to Dyea. (~120 minutes) - Once we arrive in Dyea, your guide will get you outfitted with trekking poles and you’ll have the opportunity to use the restroom before we begin tracing the Gold Rush stampeders’ steps along the first two miles of the Historic Chilkoot Trail. (~10 minutes) - At the end of the hike your guide will get you outfitted with a PFD and rubber boots and provide a safety briefing as we prepare for the scenic float down the Taiya River. (~35 minutes) - Sit back and enjoy as your experienced river guide rows you down the scenic Taiya River. The stable 18’ raft provides a great platform for photography and taking in the sweeping mountain, ocean, and rainforest views. (~15 minutes) - Once we reach the riverside raft take-out, you’ll be treated to a homemade cookie and hot cocoa, hot tea, and some free time to take in the dramatic landscape with the supplied spotting scope. (~85 minutes) - From the river take-out we’ll begin our drive north up the Klondike Highway to the dramatic summit of the White Pass. There will be many photo opportunities and we’ll stop at the “Welcome to Alaska” sign so that you can get pictures with the sign. (~60 minutes) - When we depart the summit the leisurely drive back to your ship will take about 45-60 minutes as we make a photo stop at Bridal Veil Falls and stop through US Customs.
Available Timing
White Pass Mountaineering Adventure
This tour is a full-day adventure into an off-trail, above-tree-line alpine area of White Pass. This tour is only recommended for hikers and mountain climbers looking for a challenging adventure in the wilds of Alaska. Our trip begins with a 40-minute van ride into the mountains and up the White Pass, which borders Alaska and the Yukon Territory in Canada. After we gear up, we’ll leave the road and venture into the alpine wonderland of White Pass. The nature of the tour and route conditions varies depending on the time of the year. In May and June, the conditions on the route are likely covered in snow and will require a combination of snow-shoeing and stream crossing. Later in the season, we’ll still encounter snow up higher on the peaks, but the access route will likely be snow free and involve off-trail hiking through alpine grasses and wildflowers, scrambling on rocks, and the occasional stream crossing. Our route will cover about 6 miles and gain up to 3,000 feet in elevation. Typically, our objective is to climb to the summit of Feather Peak or Mount Cleveland, both of which stand at about 5,500 feet. Both high points offer incredible views of the surrounding jagged peaks and wilderness of White Pass. However, there are a series of high points and routes that your guide may choose from. We may use crampons, ice axes, ropes, and other technical equipment to access the summit, however, there are also moderate routes to the summit that can be done without ropes. Safety is always our top priority. The exact route will depend on conditions, group ability, and guide choice. Even if the summit isn’t possible for the day, there are incredible waterfalls and scenic views to enjoy on this alpine hiking adventure. We allow for a full 8 hours for this adventure, however, timing in the mountains can be variable. We’ll be sure to get you back to your cruise ship on time. Our mountain guides are skilled at instruction and are excited to help teach snowshoe technique and basic mountaineering skills along the way. Weather can be quite variable at the pass. It is possible to have sunshine, whiteout foggy conditions, 30mph winds, rain, and even snow all on the same day. Temperatures are likely 10-20 degrees cooler than at sea level. It is important to dress in layers and avoid bringing cotton clothes. We operate this trip rain or shine, so good clothing and preparation are essential to thoroughly enjoy the adventurous experience. A waterproof jacket and pants, extra warm layers, and good hiking boots are essential. (~15 min) – Driving town tour of Skagway and visit to Skagway overlook (~20 min) – Unload and head into the backcountry, crossing a few small streams (~40 min) – Depart Skagway and drive up the White Pass (~2 hours) – As we gain elevation, we'll ascend an exposed ridge with some steeper snow and rock scrambling bringing us to a high point. Along the way, we'll stop to eat snacks and have lunch. (~3 hours) – We'll ascend up through tundra (or snow), taking short breaks about every hour or so. We'll bypass a series of beautiful waterfalls, and make our way toward the upper part of the mountain (~2 hours) – We'll descend back down the mountain, and back to the road. (~40 min) – Drive back to Skagway stopping along the way for photo opportunities
Available Timing
Mount Riley Guided Hiking
Mt. Riley is the highest point on the Haines Peninsula. It is a strenuous day hike through mostly temperate rain forest. It has a gorgeous summit and several viewpoints throughout the hike. Your adventure begins at the pier where you will meet your professional hiking guide. After a narrated drive through the historic Fort Seward, we’ll continue on for about 15 minutes along the Haines Peninsula to the trailhead for Mt. Riley. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the history and geography of Haines. It is a beautiful drive with many scenic photo opportunities. Once at the trailhead, the hike begins over rolling terrain through temperate rainforest. After about ¼ mile, we start to gain elevation as we make our way up switchbacks through the forest. Throughout the hike, your knowledgeable naturalist guide will talk about the flora and fauna of the region. Depending on the exact route the total hiking distance is between 5-8 miles and the elevation gain is approximately 1,500ft to the summit, which is at 1,760ft. Throughout the hike we’ll enjoy some snacks and water on our way to the summit, which boasts a fantastic 360-degree view of the Lynn Fjord and beyond. We’ll stop along the way for a picnic lunch, after which, we may elect to hike down the opposite side of the mountain towards the east side of the peninsula and descend towards Battery Point. After a stop at the view point of the beautiful beach of Kelgaya and Battery Point, the last mile leads us to the Battery Point trailhead where we’ll get picked up and return to the pier. Guests should bring a small pack with extra layers. Sturdy hiking shoes are appropriate. Dress for changing weather as conditions can change quickly in Alaska. Bring a rain jacket, and extra layer and don’t forget your camera! Itinerary * ~ 10 minutes – Your friendly guides will meet you near the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock in Haines. Before departing you’ll be able to ask any questions that you might still have about your upcoming hike and you’ll have the opportunity to use the restrooms before departing. * ~20 minutes – From our meeting point we’ll head out the scenic Haines peninsula to the Mt. Riley trailhead. * ~10 minutes – At the trailhead your guide will give you a thorough safety briefing and orientation before we hit the trail. * ~2.5 hours – From the trailhead we’ll hike up Mt. Riley stopping along the way for lunch. Your expert guide will share their knowledge of the native flora and fauna and the unique geological history of the area. Enjoy plenty of photo opportunities throughout the hike. * ~2.5 hours – We’ll continue from sweeping vistas on the summit of Mt. Riley down to the east side of the peninsula along the shores of the Lynn Fjord past Battery Point and back to the trailhead. * ~20 minutes – A short drive will bring us back to our meeting point near the Port Chilkoot dock and a short walk from downtown Haines and many shops and restaurants.
Available Timing
Skagway E-Bike & Brew
Discover the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush while cruising around Skagway on an E-Bike Tour followed by a tasting at the Skagway Brewing Company! Our pedal assisted E-Bikes (Trek Allant+) feel like riding a normal bike but faster and easier! Cruise through downtown Skagway on our E-Bike Tour out to a historic cemetery where your guide will bring the stories of the intrepid Gold Rush stampeders to life. Leave your bikes for a short hike to a breathtaking waterfall. Feel the wind in your hair as you effortlessly zoom up to a splendid lookout over the town. See the glacially carved valley and striking mountain peaks. Finally descend back to town and tour Skagway's oldest brewery, founded in 1898! Sample the delicious local brews and learn about Skagway Brewing Co’s unique brewing process and commitment to sustainability.
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