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Rainforest Canoe Adventure & Nature Trail

3 ½ Hours Duration

From pick-up to drop-off

Two Gentle Activities

Canoe paddle and nature hike

Lakeside Snack Included

Smoked salmon, clam chowder, and beverages

Family-Friendly

Suitable for all ages and abilities

Description

Experience a mountain lake just like Ketchikan's first explorers in a 20-passenger Indian-style canoe. A great way to take in the scenery of the lush Tongass National Forest, this land & water Ketchikan shore excursion also includes a short nature walk through the local flora led by a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy an Alaskan style snack ashore before retracing the journey via canoe. See the raw Alaskan wilderness with this gentle activity that's suitable for the whole family!

The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States and comprises the largest temperate rainforest in the world. There are many ways to experience this landscape and the Rainforest Canoe & Nature Trail combines two of them. Start the tour by boarding a motor coach bound for a remote wilderness lake where your 37-foot canoe waits at the shore. Paddle as a group with the leadership of the onboard guide, while you settle in to the serene surroundings. Glide across the smooth lake with the peaceful sounds of paddle meeting water, and a narrative from the guide that compliments the beauty of the area.

Having explored the lake by canoe, it's time to step ashore for an Alaska-style snack: smoked salmon, clam chowder, rolls with wild berry jams and beverages provide a welcome break before a short nature hike. Follow the naturalist guide on foot while exploring some of the strange flora that inhabits the rainforest floor such as the small, carnivorous Sundew plant. Eventually, retrace the journey back to downtown Ketchikan, armed with a bit more knowledge of this vast landscape and rejuvenated from the breath of fresh air.

Add an off-road Jeep ride to this tour with the Backcountry Jeep & Canoe Safari!

What's Included

Round Trip Transportation

Knowledgable Guides

Hearty Snack

Ponchos & Life Jackets

Guide Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous canoe experience? Is it safe?

This tour is a great entry-level canoe tour and perfect for first-timers or those with experience. The canoes are 37-foot vessels that can seat up to 20 guests at at time and are incredibly stable in the water.

What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?

We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.

What if it rains? Do the trips get canceled?

Ketchikan is in the heart of a temperate rainforest, and we would never do anything if we stopped for the rain. Please do not let the possibility of rain deter you from booking. Southeast Alaska is at its most beautiful on misty rainy days.

What should I wear/bring?

No special equipment is necessary for you to bring. Dress warmly and in layers as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for the nature trail and for your comfort. Life jackets will provided for the canoe portion of the trip.

Is there a weight limit for the canoes?

Over the years we have seen all shapes and sizes! We do not have a set weight limit, but please keep in mind that guests will need to be able to get in and out of the canoe on their own accord as well as be comfortable seated in a canoe for a total of 2 hours (1 hour each way).

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 3 years old • Minimum Weight: 0 lbs

Not wheelchair accessible. Moderate to good physical condition required.

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City

Ketchikan

Itinerary • 3h 30min • 5 activities

This tour begins with convenient pick-up from the cruise docks, both Ward Cove & the downtown docks included. After loading up, you'll enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Harriet.

Duration

30 minutes

Upon reaching Lake Harriet Hung, you will suit up in a lifejacket before hopping in the canoes for a scenic motor-assisted canoe trip across Lake Harriet Hunt while your guide answers questions and tells you about the area.

Duration

1 hour

Reaching the other side of the lake, enjoy a snack of clam chowder, rolls, smoked salmon, hot chocolate, & coffee. You may also take an optional 15-minute nature hike with your naturalist guide through temperate rainforest.

Duration

30 minutes

Hop back in the canoe with your guide for your return paddle to the launch point. The 20-passenger Alaska Native-style canoe makes for a smooth trip across the water

Duration

1 hour

At the conclusion of the tour, hop back in the vans for transfer right back to the cruise docks, where you can explore the downtown area or hop back on your cruise ship.

Duration

30 minutes