EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Embark on a true Alaskan adventure that seamlessly blends air, water, and ice. Begin with a thrilling floatplane flight over dense forests, rugged mountains, and the spectacular Taku Inlet, gateway to the vast Juneau Icefield. Touch down on a pristine, glacier‑fed lake and transition into a lightweight, one‑person packraft—an agile vessel designed for exploration. Paddle confidently among floating icebergs as your guide shares expert instruction and insights into the surrounding wilderness. Keep watch for bald eagles and sea lions along the way. Upon reaching Norris Glacier, strap on micro‑spikes and step onto the ice itself, hiking across a dramatic frozen landscape few travelers ever experience. This rare combination of aerial views, paddling, and glacier hiking delivers an adventure that is as exhilarating as it is unforgettable.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fly over the rugged Alaskan wilderness in a floatplane made for adventure.
• Land in a glacially fed lake and paddle across it in a kayak-like packcraft.
• Hike across the icy terrain of Norris Glacier, a part of the massive Juneau Icefield.
• Marvel at the majestic scenery and look for wildlife such as bald eagles and sealions.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise through spectacularly scenic Neets Bay to a bear observatory where you can watch these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Tongass, the largest national forest in America, blankets the shores of the bay, making for an extraordinary setting. Few places are so wild and pristine, which is why wildlife thrives throughout the area. While cruising the typically calm bay, you may spot whales, sea lions and bald eagles, all of which are prevalent there. Even so, the highlight will surely be the opportunity to observe bears as they feast on spawning salmon. Enjoy a short walk through the rainforest as you keep an eye out for bears. The end of the trail will bring you to the viewing platform, an excellent spot to see bears catching and eating large salmon along the stream. It can be quite the show, especially if the bears are leaning over the water with their mouths open, just waiting for salmon to unknowingly leap within easy reach.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Look for bears along a stream where they typically come to fatten up on spawning salmon.
• Enjoy the rare opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitats, undisturbed by humans.
• Watch for whales, sea lions and bald eagles as you cruise through Neets Bay to the bear locale.
• Admire the gorgeous setting of Tongass National Forest, the largest such forest in America.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Delve into the fascinating culture of the indigenous people of Southeast Alaska by visiting authentic totem poles in the rainforest and paddling a canoe across a gorgeous mountain lake. As you wander through Totem Bight State Historical Park, you will see colorful, hand-carved totem poles and a large clan house similar to ones built in the early 19th century. The park offers a fascinating insight into the culture of the indigenous people, as will your experience on Lake Harriet Hunt, where you will board a 37-foot canoe patterned after the ones that the Tlingit and Haida built. The lake provides a beautiful setting for your paddling adventure because the dense forest comes to the edge of the water. In time, you will disembark for an Alaskan-style snack. You will have the opportunity to walk through an old-growth forest while the guide points out the most interesting flora and perhaps fauna.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain insight into the fascinating culture of Alaska’s indigenous people.
• Paddle a canoe like the ones the indigenous Tlingits and Haidas built.
• Enjoy a snack and an interpretive nature walk through an old growth forest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat, comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Your professional guide will provide you with lively narration and share the unique history of Ketchikan as you drive along the scenic Tongass Narrows in route to Totem Bight State Park, home to one of the world's largest stand of totems. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tongass National Rainforest under the canopy of majestic hemlock and cedar trees. At the end of the trail, you’ll be impressed by the large collection of totem poles that your driver/guide will bring to life for you. Through entertaining stories and narrative, you’ll learn about the culture and lifestyles practiced by the northwest coastal Natives and have a chance to enter an authentic Native clan house. During your brief stop at the quaint Alaska Totem Trading store, you’ll have an opportunity to shop and view beautifully carved totems along with a collection of vintage automobiles. On the scenic drive to your next stop, you will be engaged with an entertaining town overview and learn of the industries which built Ketchikan and helped to make it the “Salmon Capital of the World”. Finally, it’s time to enjoy the 'The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show'! Hardy lumberjacks gather in this partially covered and heated outdoor arena, to compete in various logging events for you. Crowd favorites like log rolling, ax-throws and speed-climbing events will bring you out of your seat, as you cheer your lumberjack on. Many world champion athletes, as seen on ESPN and the Travel Channel, spend their summers in Ketchikan and will be performing in this great show.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel along the Tongass Narrows with a professional guide who shares lively stories about Ketchikan’s unique history.
• Walk through the Tongass National Rainforest under towering cedar and hemlock trees.
• Brief stop to browse hand-carved totems, see a vintage car collection, and shop for local souvenirs.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Alaska's diverse marine and wildlife are yours to discover during this intimate wildlife-viewing adventure aboard a deluxe expedition-style catamaran, and a visit to a remote island. Depart the pier aboard a beach landing vessel for a cruise along Sitka Sound's rugged coastline. Your captain will use understanding of tides, weather and seasonal changes to design an expedition uniquely suited to the day. The high speed and maneuverability of your vessel will allow you to explore areas unreachable by conventional boat and witness the very best of Sitka Sound's marine and coastal wildlife. During your ride, you may see whales, sea otters, brown bears and other diverse species that thrive in this pristine environment. As animals are sighted, the captain will skillfully maneuver the vessel to provide optimal viewing, and your naturalist guide will explain their fascinating life cycles and behavior. You can take in this encounter from the comfort of the window-lined cabin or indulge all your senses by experiencing it from the open deck. Next, you will step ashore on a remote island to explore colorful tide pools, trace the meandering tracks of wildlife, or settle on a giant beach log and take in the splendid beauty of your surroundings. While beachcombing, keep your eyes peeled for Japanese fishing floats and other exotic flotsam.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise serene Sitka Sound in an exclusive beach landing vessel, looking for marine life such as whales.
• Take in majestic scenery in every direction.
• Visit a remote island of the captain’s choosing to observe marine life in the tidal pools.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

OVERVIEW

You’ll spend the day in a state-of-the art fishing vessel with a seasoned guide who will bring you to the fishing grounds Alaskans have been returning to generation after generation. No matter your skill level, you will fish like a local, working the sandy flats or sea floor pinnacles with your rod in hand, drifting with the current and jigging in waters as deep as 300 feet. Species availability changes throughout the season, and daily factors such as tides and wind affect your fishing opportunities. This multi-species Alaskan fishing expedition allows you to head out with the confidence that you will catch fish. Down there in the twilight of the deep, rockfish, cod, flounder, sharks, skates and mighty halibut find their way to your bait. No matter what the conditions or the catch, this trip offers the best chance of exposing you to the strange and alien species found on the Southeast Alaskan deep-sea floor.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fish in protected, relatively remote waters away from other anglers.
• Use the crew’s advice and fishing tips to increase your chances for landing a big fish.
• Watch for breaching whales, seals and eagles when cruising to and from the fishing grounds.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered clothing and light rain gear.
• Wear flat comfortable shoes with non-slip soles.

OVERVIEW

Raft down the magnificent Mendenhall River, a short but wonderfully picturesque river whose source is Mendenhall Lake, the terminus of massive Mendenhall Glacier. Following an orientation briefing, you will embark the raft and head downriver. If you are feeling ambitious, you may paddle along with your guide. If not, simply settle into the raft and enjoy the natural beauty in the shadow of Mendenhall Glacier as the guide does all the paddling. The scenery will be absolutely stunning, especially from your river perspective. Along the way, the guide will impart all sorts of fascinating facts about the area’s natural history, native lore and legends from the Tlingit people that first settled here thousands of years ago. After rafting, you will pause for snacks at an authentic Tlingit clan house.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Raft a pristine river fed by waters from Mendenhall Lake and Glacier.
• Admire some of the most majestic wilderness scenery in Alaska.
• Learn about the area’s natural history and wildlife.
• Visit a Tlingit clan house and learn about the tribal culture.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Drive a four-wheel-drive automatic Jeep Wrangler along mountainous roads through Tongass National Forest. Befriend your fellow travelers and group into teams of 4 per Jeep. The safari travels from sea level to the sub-alpine region of this unique coastal island. Learn about the area's natural history as you drive abandoned logging roads. Along the way, you’ll make a stop to take advantage of photo opportunities and to rotate drivers, so everyone has a turn at the wheel. Your next destination is the secluded mountain lake - Lake Harriet Hunt - where you’ll board a Tlingit-style 37 foot, 20 passenger canoe, much like the Alaska Natives used to travel the coastal waterways. Your safari guide will then lead a brief nature walk through old-growth forest from the remote camp where your cook will prepare an Alaska-style snack.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive a 4x4 Jeep Wrangler on abandoned logging roads through the Alaskan rainforest.
• Canoe across a beautiful subalpine lake.
• Partake in an Alaskan-style snack at a remote camp.
• Go on an interpreted nature walk through old-growth forest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

There is no better way to experience Alaska’s rugged terrain than by driving an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) through the forests and mountains on Chichagof Island. Following a short orientation on how best to operate an ATV in the Alaskan wilderness, you will set off on your outdoor adventure. The entire island (America’s fifth largest) lies within the limits of the 17-million-acre Tongass National Forest, which has the distinction of being America’s largest national forest. The terrain ranges from seaside estuaries to alpine mountain peaks, and you will have plenty of chances to stop and view the gorgeous scenery. With its remote location and limited accessibility, Chichagof is home to some of the animals most often associated with Alaska. In fact, the island has the world’s largest brown bear population, estimated to be three bears per square mile. You might also see bald eagles soaring above, land otters, Sitka black-tail deer and red squirrels.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive an ATV around a remote island in the Tongass National Forest.
• Admire the spectacular, every-changing scenery.
• Look for wildlife on land and up above, including bald eagles.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in layers in case of cool temperatures.
• Wear flat comfortable water-resistant hiking shoes.
• Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.

OVERVIEW

Kayak across a mountain lake to view Mendenhall Glacier, a massive body of ancient ice that is part of the Juneau Icefield, a remnant of the last ice age. Following an immensely picturesque drive to pristine Mendenhall Lake, you will be outfitted with all the necessary gear and then ease into a two-person kayak. You will find that the kayak will be remarkably easy to navigate, which makes the adventure all the more enjoyable. Your destination will be Mendenhall Glacier. While you will remain a safe distance away, you will certainly be close enough to behold its staggering beauty. Kayaking past Nugget Falls is another highlight, as it cascades into the lake right next to the glacier. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as arctic terns are often spotted nesting along the shore. You might also see black bears and goats up in the hills among the Sitka spruce trees. Afterwards, head to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake to refuel with an all-you-can-eat feast. Includes lemonade, coffee, tea, hot apple cider & hot chocolate. Beer, wine & soda are available for purchase.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Paddle a kayak to Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice.
• Kayak past Nugget Falls, a roaring cascade that tumbles into the lake.
• Look for wildlife along the shore and in the surrounding forest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing and gloves.
• Bring an extra pair of socks.
• You will be outfitted with a life jacket, rubber boots and rain gear.

OVERVIEW

Experience Alaska’s spectacular natural beauty on an exhilarating hike through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area. Your adventure begins not far from Juneau on a meandering trail through a valley that will stimulate your senses and leave you with an even greater respect for Mother Nature. You can expect to pass a rushing mountain stream, feel the gentle mist of a cascading waterfall, hear the high-pitched whistle of a bald eagle and smell the fragrances of a secluded forest glen. Along the way, a naturalist will point out the natural wonders and describe the wildlife that flourishes here. The surrounding peaks are home to mountain goats, black bears, beavers and porcupine, and there is no telling what you may spot. As you follow the trail, you will pause at the best viewpoints to take in panoramic vistas of this expansive wilderness in the shadow of Mendenhall Glacier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through a rainforest with a naturalist that will explain the ecosystem.
• Look for wildlife such as mountain goats, beavers and porcupine.
• Behold Mendenhall Glacier, one of North America’s most accessible glaciers.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Want to learn about a place? Drink with the locals! This fun and informative walking tour is sure to please anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in the culture of Alaska’s First City. You will embark on your pub crawl with a true Ketchikan local who will share the colorful history of days gone by through infamous stories and vintage photographs. At each of the 3 pubs you will enjoy your choice between some of the bars highest selling drinks and meet genuine characters who make Ketchikan unique. Belly up to the bar and get a real sense of what life is like in this unique rainforest town.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk to three of Ketchikan’s liveliest pubs for drinks.
• Interact with the locals at the pubs for an authentic feel of the lifestyle in Ketchikan.
• Hear stories that earned Ketchikan the title of Alaska’s Wickedest City during Prohibition.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.
• Snacks are available for purchase.