Juneau: Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride

Juneau: Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride offers an engaging way to explore Alaska’s breathtaking natural beauty. For $180 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3 hours riding a Segway X2 through lush forests, alpine meadows, and alongside crystal-clear waters in the Fish Creek Valley. The tour is operated by iRide Alaska and includes pickup from downtown Juneau, transportation to Eaglecrest, helmets, the Segway, bottled water, and a local snack. It’s a small-group experience limited to 10 participants, making it ideal for those seeking a personalized connection with nature.

What sets this tour apart are two particular aspects we love: First, the guided experience led by passionate, knowledgeable locals, like Sione, who bring Alaska’s flora, fauna, and history alive with enthusiasm. Second, the Segway X2’s Tundra tires allow for a smooth, cushioned ride over groomed gravel trails—making it accessible even for beginners. A slight consideration is that the tour involves walking on uneven trails for about 150 yards, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. This adventure is perfect for active travelers eager to combine light outdoor exploration with a fun, modern twist—riders of all ages and fitness levels who enjoy learning about their surroundings in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Guided Experience: Knowledgeable local guides enrich the tour with interesting facts about Alaska’s unique flora, fauna, and history.
• Accessible Adventure: The use of a Segway X2 makes exploring rugged terrain easier and more fun than traditional hiking.
• Scenic Immersion: Glide through alpine meadows, ponds of lilies, and beneath snow-capped mountains, with plenty of photo stops.
• Historical Highlights: Walk along the historic Treadwell Ditch Trail, offering a glimpse into Juneau’s gold rush past.
• Wildlife and Nature: Listen for eagle calls and breathe in the pure mountain air, feeling close to nature in a serene setting.
• Small Group Personalization: Limited to 10 guests, ensuring attentive guides and a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Juneau Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride

Imagine cruising through towering Sitka Spruce and Hemlock trees with a gentle hum of your Segway beneath you. This tour begins with a quick, friendly training session that gets everyone comfortable with the Segway X2’s responsive controls. Even if you’ve never ridden one before, you’ll find that with a few minutes of instruction, you’ll be riding confidently and smiling at how intuitive and fun it is.

Transportation and Meeting Point
Your adventure starts with a pickup in downtown Juneau, at the cruise ship docks near the Mt. Roberts Tramway. The meeting spot is easy to find—a few minutes’ walk under the Tram cables, where guides holding a “Segway Tours” sign await. After a brief safety briefing and gear check, you’ll hop into a van for the short ride up to Eaglecrest Ski Area. This transportation is part of the value, saving you the hassle of arranging your own transfer and letting you relax and soak in some early views of the surrounding mountains.

The Itinerary: From Forest to Alpine Meadow
Once at Eaglecrest, the real fun begins. The trail is an old cross-country Nordic ski route, now perfect for summer exploration on a Segway. We loved the way the Tundra tires handled the groomed gravel with ease, offering a cushioned ride that makes you feel more like floating than riding.

The first part of the ride takes you through dense stands of Sitka Spruce and Hemlock, where the cool shade and the scent of pine create a distinctly Alaskan atmosphere. Your guide will point out interesting details about the local flora—like the lilies in the ponds—and maybe even spot an eagle in flight. Several stops for photos and quick walks allow for a closer look at the environment, giving you time to appreciate the quiet beauty of this wilderness.

Alpine Meadows and Snow-Capped Views
After about an hour of cruising, you’ll reach a series of serene alpine meadows. The lush greenery is contrasted beautifully by the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, providing a quintessential Alaska vista. According to reviews, many guests find these views genuinely breathtaking. You can pause to take photographs or simply soak in the vast, open landscape.

Fish Creek and the Treadwell Ditch Trail
The tour’s highlight is reaching Fish Creek, with its crystal-clear waters fed by snowmelt. Here, the group takes a 10-minute walk along the historic Treadwell Ditch Trail. This short stroll offers an insight into Juneau’s past—once gold prospectors and miners used this route for water and transportation. The trail is in the old-growth Tongass Rainforest, which remains lush and largely untouched. Guides share stories about the gold rush era and the significance of these remnants, adding depth to your visit.

Sharing Local Flavors and Refreshments
To wrap up the experience, everyone shares a locally sourced snack—a gesture that adds a communal, authentic touch to the tour. The inclusion of bottled water and snacks underscores the focus on making this a comfortable, enjoyable outing.

Authentic Reviews and What They Tell Us
Guests consistently praise their guides, citing their expertise, enthusiasm, and patience. Robin, who described the tour as “super super fun and beautiful,” particularly appreciated guide Sione’s knowledge and friendly demeanor. Similarly, John highlighted the professionalism and humor of Clay and RJ, who made beginners feel at ease while keeping the mood light with jokes and puns.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $180 may seem steep at first glance, it actually offers a good value considering everything included: transportation, gear, guiding, snacks, and the unique experience of riding a Segway through pristine wilderness. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace, making it suitable for those new to outdoor adventures or seeking a safe, fun way to experience Alaska’s outdoors.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers who want to combine light exercise with scenic beauty, especially those who enjoy learning from passionate guides. It’s also perfect for anyone curious about Alaska’s natural environment but who prefers a gentle ride over strenuous hikes. Remember, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 99 pounds, or seniors over 70, but for most healthy adults, it’s an accessible and memorable outing.

The Sum Up

The Juneau Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride on a Segway promises a memorable blend of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. It’s an experience that brings you close to Alaska’s natural splendors without requiring strenuous effort, thanks to the innovative Segway X2. The guides’ local knowledge and engaging personalities truly elevate the tour, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

For travelers who love beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and learning about local history—all delivered with a dash of fun—this tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a unique way to see the wilderness in comfort, with excellent value for its price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this adventure will leave you with lasting memories of Juneau’s rugged beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides provide a brief training session that ensures everyone is comfortable riding the Segway before heading out. Most guests find they get the hang of it quickly, even those who have never ridden one before.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather—layers are recommended—as it can be cool in the mountains. Closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons.

How long is the walking part?
There’s a short, 150-yard walk along the trail, particularly at Fish Creek and the Treadwell Ditch. The walk is on uneven terrain, so consider your comfort with walking on such paths.

What if I don’t know how to ride a Segway?
No problem. The tour includes a training session, and most guests adapt quickly. The guides are experienced at helping first-timers feel confident.

Can I book this tour if I’m not from a cruise ship?
Yes, the pickup is from downtown Juneau, making it accessible whether you’re on a cruise or staying in town.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Embark on this Juneau Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride for a true taste of Alaska’s wild and wonderful landscapes—an adventure that combines modern fun with natural authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: