Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari

Ketchikan’s rugged beauty comes alive with the Jeep and Canoe Safari, a half-day adventure that combines off-road exploration, scenic paddling, and Alaska’s delicious snacks. For around $224 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours immersed in nature, guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their homeland’s secrets. We especially appreciate the opportunity to drive or ride in a classic 4WD Jeep Wrangler®, giving you a real taste of Alaska’s backroads, and the unique paddling experience in a traditional Native American-style canoe across Lake Harriet Hunt.

One of the best parts? The snack break featuring smoked salmon, clam chowder, and wild berry jam—true Alaskan flavors that boost your energy after the outdoor activities. The tour also offers a nature walk through old-growth rainforests, giving you a chance to learn about the local ecosystem firsthand.

A potential consideration? The logistics and timing can sometimes feel a bit rushed, especially if the group includes multiple drivers or if weather delays the canoe or nature walk. It’s a tour best suited to those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and scenic beauty, and who don’t mind moderate physical activity. Perfect for families with kids over five, or anyone curious about the wilderness of Tongass National Forest.

Key Points

• Unique combination of off-road Jeep driving and canoe paddling offers diverse outdoor experiences
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing the adventure
• Scenic drives through Tongass National Forest showcase Alaska’s ancient and new-growth woods
• Authentic Alaskan snacks like smoked salmon and clam chowder make the experience even more memorable
• Flexible group participation allows everyone to share driving duties and enjoy the scenery
• Worry-Free guarantee ensures timely return to your ship, or arrangements for delays

Exploring Ketchikan’s Wilderness with the Jeep and Canoe Safari

When your cruise ship docks in Ketchikan, you’re greeted with a chance to step into the wild. The Jeep and Canoe Safari, offered by Alaska Travel Adventures promises a rough-and-tumble glimpse into the Tongass National Forest, combined with the serene beauty of Lake Harriet Hunt. For $224 per person, this four-hour experience packs in enough adventure to please thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to drive a classic 4WD Jeep Wrangler® — it’s a chance to get behind the wheel or ride shotgun through some truly off-the-beaten-path backroads. Second, the paddle across Lake Harriet Hunt in a traditional Native American-style canoe provides a peaceful contrast to the rugged jeep ride, allowing you to soak in Alaska’s landscape from a different perspective.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that logistics can sometimes be a bit complex—waiting times or delays might occur, especially during busy seasons or if weather impacts the canoe or the nature walk. It’s a moderately active tour, so travelers should be prepared for some physical movement and outdoor weather conditions.

This experience is ideal for families with children over five, curious travelers eager for a blend of adventure and culture, and anyone who appreciates guided insights into Alaska’s forests and wildlife. If you’re after an authentic, active outing that combines scenic beauty with a touch of adventure, this tour fits the bill.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

The Off-Road Jeep Drive through Tongass National Forest

The adventure begins with a safety briefing and a chance to get familiar with the Jeep®—a sturdy, iconic vehicle perfect for tackling Alaska’s rugged terrain. You’ll be grouped in fours, and everyone gets a chance to drive or ride along, switching off at designated points. Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel on back roads and old logging trails, offering stunning views of old-growth and new-growth forests.

Your guides, like Kaitlin and Holly, are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, sharing insights into the local geology, flora, and fauna. As you bounce along the forest roads, the two-way radios ensure you don’t miss the interesting tidbits and stories. Several reviews mention the scenery as breathtaking, with some describing the jeep ride as “fun and easy for first-timers,” though others note it’s more of a scenic drive than a true off-road thrill.

Lake Harriet Hunt and the Canoe Trip

The highlight for many is the paddle across Lake Harriet Hunt in a 37-foot, Alaska Native-style canoe that can carry up to 20 passengers. The design is stable and easy to handle, making it suitable for all ages. As you glide across the water, expect beautiful views of the surrounding forest and mountains, with some reviewers mentioning the peacefulness of the lake.

Once on the far side, your guide will lead you on a nature walk through an old-growth rainforest. This segment offers an up-close look at the flora and fauna, with interpretive commentary that makes the experience educational and engaging. Some reviews mention that they wish for more time in the woods, but the balance suits most travelers.

The Snack and Relaxation Break

A short rest at a forest camp is a highlight for many, where you’ll feast on smoked salmon, clam chowder, fresh bread with wild-berry jam, and hot chocolate. This Alaskan-style snack not only energizes you but also offers an authentic flavor of the region. The food is frequently praised, with comments like “the clam chowder was fantastic,” and “the salmon spread was delicious.”

Return Journey and Logistics

After the scenic meal and a final look at the forest, your vehicle will take you back to Ketchikan, roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel, depending on group size and stops. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to the cruise port, and the company guarantees on-time return—a reassuring feature for cruise travelers worried about catching their ship.

Additional Details and Practical Considerations

• Group size is capped at 40 travelers, supporting a more personalized experience.
• Minimum age is 5 years, with children over 40 lbs needing a suitable life jacket.
• Drivers must be at least 25 years old with a valid license—great for couples or adult groups.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers and waterproof gear is advisable.
• Cancellation is not possible once booked, but if weather cancels the tour, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews highlight the value of this trip. The guides are often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and capable of sharing personal stories that deepen the experience. The combination of Jeep riding and canoeing offers a diverse look at Alaska’s landscapes, making it a more well-rounded tour compared to single-activity excursions.

The food is another unexpectedly delightful aspect. Instead of just snacks, you’re treated to local flavors like smoked salmon and wild-berry jam, which enhance the adventure’s authenticity. The scenery, combined with the informative guides, makes this a worthwhile investment for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience.

Highlights from Reviews

Several travelers emphasize how family-friendly and fun the tour is, especially praising guides like Kaitlin and Sebastian for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Others appreciated the scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities, although some wished for more wildlife encounters. The snacks and lunch are often highlighted as a perfect complement to the outdoor activity, with many saying the clam chowder was “fantastic” and the salmon spread “delicious.”

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are positive, some mention that timing can feel tight, especially if weather or delays interfere. A few found that the jeep ride was overrated for those less interested in off-road driving or that the nature walk could be longer. These are minor points but worth considering if you’re seeking a more intense adventure or longer exploration on foot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for adventurous travelers eager to see Alaska’s forests from two different perspectives—by land in a Jeep and on water in a canoe. It’s suitable for families with kids over five, as well as couples or groups seeking a balanced outdoor experience. If you enjoy guided nature walks, scenic drives, and local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a more wildlife-focused or longer nature hike, you might find this tour a bit limited in scope. Also, those who dislike riding in vehicles or paddling in lakes might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, and pickup from the cruise port is provided.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including driving, paddling, and the snack break.

Can I drive the Jeep?
Yes, you’ll be assigned to a group of four, with opportunities to drive or ride in the Jeep, switching drivers during the ride.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, and bring waterproof clothing since the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old and at least 40 lbs are welcome, but under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

What food is included?
Snacks include smoked salmon, clam chowder, bread, wild-berry jam, and hot chocolate or coffee.

What wildlife might we see?
While sightings are not guaranteed, reviewers mention hopes of seeing deer, moose, eagles, and bears along the way.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers.

Is the tour refundable?
No, this experience is non-refundable once booked, but cancellations due to weather are fully covered.

What happens if my ship is delayed or I miss the tour?
The company guarantees on-time return to your ship or will arrange transportation to the next port.

To sum it up, the Ketchikan Jeep and Canoe Safari offers a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s wilderness, blending adventure, scenery, and local flavor. Whether you’re behind the wheel or paddling across a mountain lake, you’ll come away with stories to tell and memories of rugged yet beautiful landscapes. It’s a smart choice for those who want an active, authentic, and engaging experience in the Alaskan wilderness.