Rainforest Canoe Adventure & Nature Trail
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous canoe experience? Is it safe?
What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?
What if it rains? Do the trips get canceled?
What should I wear/bring?
Is there a weight limit for the canoes?
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
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.
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.
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.
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
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.