Besides being stunningly gorgeous, the Rainforest Canoe Adventure and Nature Trail is great fun for the whole family!
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Explore a mountain lake just like Ketchikan's first explorers in a 20-passenger Indian-style canoe. A great way to experience 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 2 gentle activities suitable for the whole family!
What to expect and what not to expect with this Ketchikan shore excursion
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 37-foot canoes wait at the shore. Paddle as a group with the leadership of the onboard guide, while you absorb the surroundings and settle in to the gentle sounds the only a canoe can bring. Glide across the smooth lake with the peaceful sounds of paddle meeting water, and a narrative from the guide complements and enhances the beauty of the area.
Combines 2 low-impact activities: canoe and nature walk
3½ hours duration
Wildlife opportunities
Family-friendly: Great for all ages
Includes smoked salmon and clam chowder snack
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.
Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour as long as participants meet the minimum weight of 40 lbs.
Accessibility: No previous canoe experience is necessary, and you'll be equipped with all the gear and info you need for this gentle activity. Guests need to be able to climb in/out of a canoe with limited assistance and paddle for approximately 2 hours. Participants are welcome to join the tour with good health and an adventurous spirit.
Cancellation Policy: In the event your cruise ship is late, delayed, or doesn't make it into port we always issue a full refund for the tour. Changes or cancellations are allowed up to 14 days prior to the tour departure with absolutely no penalty. Including 'Flex Cancel' allows cancellations and refunds up to 24-hours before the tour. Any cancellations made within 14 days of the tour departure (or within 24-hours with Flex Cancel) are nonrefundable.
What to Wear: Alaskan weather can be variable, so it's recommended to plan accordingly. Dress warmly and in layers, so that you can take off an extra layer when the sun is out or throw on an extra layer if it's a bit chilly. A full list of what to wear and bring will be sent to you in your confirmation email.
For availability and timing, complete the information on the sidebar
Adult Rate:$102.00
Child Rate: $77.00 (ages 12 and under)
+ 6.5% sales tax
You've got questions, we've got answers
Q:How long is this excursion, and is transportation included?
The total duration of this activity is about 3½ hours from start to finish with about 2 hours on the water. The meeting location will be just next to the Ketchikan Visitor's Bureau, which is conveniently situated very close to the cruise docks. Of course you'll receive detailed meeting instructions and planning information in a confirmation email upon booking.
Q: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.
Q:What should I wear and how should I prepare for this tour?
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.
Q: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.
Q: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.
Q:What if our ship is delayed or doesn't make it into port? Refund?
It's very rare that a ship is delayed into port, but in those cases, 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, we will of course refund the full cost of the tour.