Most Ketchikan tours put guests on a boat or in a van. The Ketchikan Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari run by Alaska Travel Adventures does something different: it hands the wheel to you. Licensed guests drive an automatic 4WD Jeep Wrangler on logging roads through the Tongass National Forest, then the tour transitions to a guided canoe crossing of Lake Harriet Hunt and an optional nature walk through old-growth forest. Alaska Travel Adventures runs the full lineup of Ketchikan day tours.
What Are the Roads Through the Tongass Like?
The route follows mountainous, unmaintained logging roads through the Tongass National Forest on Revillagigedo Island, the island Ketchikan sits on. The guide travels in a lead Jeep and communicates with all vehicles via two-way radio, covering the area's timber history and reforestation methods. The route also includes designated photo stops at scenic viewpoints.
Can You Drive the Jeep Yourself?
Yes, with a valid driver's license. Each automatic 4WD Jeep Wrangler carries a group of up to four guests. Stops along the route may provide opportunities for eligible guests to switch drivers. Driving is optional — passengers follow the same route and hear the guide's narration over the Jeep's two-way radio.
Do You Need Off-Road Driving Experience?
ATA does not list prior off-road experience as a requirement, but drivers should be comfortable following instructions on unmaintained roads.
What You Can Expect
You’ll follow the same route and hear the guide's narration over the Jeep's radio. All designated stops are available to the full group.
After the Jeep: Lake Harriet Hunt
The Jeep portion ends at Lake Harriet Hunt. The group then paddles across the lake in a guided 37-foot, 20-passenger Alaska Native-style canoe. On the far shore, a nature walk through the old-growth forest is available. ATA rates the four-hour tour Moderate and describes the nature walk as optional. At the shoreside camp, guests stop for clam chowder, smoked salmon, hot drinks, and other refreshments before returning. Round-trip transportation from the cruise terminal is included throughout.
What Are the Age and Weight Requirements?
The minimum age is five years old and the minimum weight is 40 pounds. Children under driving age ride as passengers in the Jeep.
What to Bring
A poncho is provided. Wear layers suitable for cool or wet weather. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are recommended for the nature walk. A valid driver's license is required for any guest who wants to drive.
Browse departure times and book the Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari directly on the tour page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive yourself on a Ketchikan tour?
The Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari lets licensed guests take the wheel of an automatic 4WD Jeep Wrangler on mountainous logging roads through the Tongass National Forest. A valid driver's license is required to drive. Guests without a license are welcome as passengers.
What is there to do in Ketchikan besides shopping?
Most of Ketchikan's distinctive experiences are outside of town in the Tongass National Forest. Alaska Travel Adventures offers the Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari, the Rainforest Canoe and Nature Trail, the Rainforest Island Adventure, and the Totem Bight State Historical Park and Rainforest Canoe Adventure.
How old do you have to be for the Ketchikan Jeep tour?
The minimum age is five years old and the minimum weight is 40 pounds.
Do you need a driver's license for the Ketchikan Backcountry Safari?
A valid driver's license is required only for guests who want to drive. Passengers are not required to hold a license.
Is the Ketchikan Backcountry Safari good for beginners?
ATA does not require prior off-road or kayaking experience for this tour. The Jeep Wranglers are automatic transmission, the guide leads the convoy via two-way radio, and guests who prefer not to drive are welcome as passengers throughout. The canoe crossing is fully guided. ATA rates the tour Moderate overall.
How long is the Ketchikan Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari?
The tour runs approximately four hours, including the Jeep drive, canoe crossing, optional nature walk, shoreside snack, and return transfer to the cruise terminal.
