A two-hour driving tour from Icy Strait Point that pairs coastal scenery with Tlingit cultural stories led by lifelong local guides. Ideal for cruise visitors who want an efficient, wildlife-forward introduction to Chichagof Island.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The van eases away from Icy Strait Point and the island yawns open: spruce-dark slopes dropping to pebbled beaches, meadows freckled with salmonberry, and the white flash of a distant gull. In two hours you move like a local—short drives between coastal pullouts, a couple of quick walks on easy trails, and stops where the guide reads the landscape and the tide charts with equal fluency.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking over short, mostly flat trails and boardwalks
Wildlife
History
Chichagof Island and Hoonah have long been occupied by the Tlingit people; the area later hosted canneries and fishing work that shaped modern coastal communities.
Conservation
Guides emphasize responsible wildlife viewing and limited foraging; stay on designated paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the 2 Hour Chichagof Island Guided Driving Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures and wind on the coast can change quickly; wear a warm mid-layer under a waterproof shell.
Bring binoculars
Much of the wildlife—whales, eagles, shorebirds—will be best viewed from a distance at coastal pullouts.
Plan around your ship time
This tour is optimized for short port calls—arrive early to allow time for the 600' walk from the dock as directed by staff.
Follow guide instructions for foraging
If berry picking is offered, only harvest what guides indicate is safe and allowed to protect local plants and for future harvests.
Waterproof rain shell
Keeps you dry and blocks wind during coastal stops and short walks.
spring
Sturdy, waterproof shoes
Provides traction on wet boardwalks, gravel pullouts, and muddy trails.
Binoculars or spotting scope
Useful for scanning for whales, shorebirds, and distant wildlife from pullouts.
summer
Warm mid-layer (fleece or wool)
Retains heat when coastal breezes make temperatures feel colder than the forecast.
fall