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Ketchikan Backcountry Adventure: SUV Tours in the Tongass

Ketchikaneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking involved during exploration stops.

Overview

Discover the rugged beauty of Alaska with a private SUV boat tour in Ketchikan’s Tongass National Forest. Experience wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and local history on this exclusive adventure.

Boat Tour
History Tour
Ward Cove, Alaska

Ketchikan Backcountry Adventure: SUV Tours in the Tongass

Starting at $125 | 2.25 Hours

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Ketchikan Backcountry Adventure: SUV Tours in the Tongass photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2-hour driving tour through the stunning Tongass National Forest in a 4x4 SUV. Led by local expert Teague, you'll explore breathtaking backcountry vistas, learn about the region's flora, fauna, and logging history, and enjoy photo stops along the way. Experience Southeast Alaska like never before!

Rates

Adult (Ages 18+): $100.00 + Taxes/Fees Child (Ages 0 - 17): $65.00 + Taxes/Fees Private Tour (1-2 People): $400 + Taxes/Fees Private Tour (3-5 People): $700 + Taxes/Fees

Important Notes & Requirements: • For children 8-years-old or younger, child car seats are required by law. Please contact Teague if you intend to bring a younger child. Currently 2 child car seats are available, rear or front facing. For children under 8, please book a private tour so we can better accommodate your pace. • Spring and late fall availability of this tour may be dependent on mountain snow conditions, i.e. road needs to be clear of snow • Signed digital liability waiver • Face masks most likely required during vehicle transport and are provided if needed


Capacity

Up to 5 people maximum, 7 with children


Duration & Length

2 Hours 32 Miles Roundtrip


About

Come join us on a picturesque 2-hour driving tour in a 4x4 SUV with a small group of up to no more than 5 guests (7 with children)! See where the locals like to play. Experience the beauty of the Tongass National Forest while being chauffeured up a dirt road filled with switchbacks through backcountry vistas of surrounding mountains and valleys. A few stops for photos will be available.

This tour is led by owner and operator, Tongass Teague. Enjoy connecting with him, each other, and the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Learn about some of our flora and fauna and hear about our complicated logging history and what it means for our future. Learn how to protect our endangered old-growth forests.


Itinerary

Duration: 2 Hours 20 minutes: Drive north out of town 30 minutes: Drive through the Tongass National Forest to end of mountain road 25 minutes: Turn around and drive back through the Tongass National Forest 15 minutes: Quick offshoot drive to a Tongass National Forest lake and then back to main road to town 10 minutes: 10 minutes flex time to account for unexpected traffic, bathroom stop, or delays 20 minutes: Drive back to Berth 3 cruise ship terminal downtown and drop off guests


Who Is This Tour For?

This driving tour is for anyone who is able to climb in and out of a 4x4 SUV and who enjoys leaving the pavement behind for a more backcountry experience.


What to Bring

  • Jacket, sweater or sweatshirt.
  • Camera

What's Included

  • Dock-side pick-up and drop-off from Berth 3 or as arranged if arriving via plane or ferry,
  • Bottled water.
  • Masks for vehicle transportation (may be required if needed and can be supplied)

Few facilities are available along the route. There is one pit toilet along the way in the Tongass National Forest. If needed, public restrooms are available at Berth 3 before or after the tour. However, if there is a bathroom emergency, we have toilet paper and military waste kits--Wag Bags--one can use and cart out. This is a leave-no-trace excursion, including no littering or food left behind. This is also a tobacco-free, drug-free, and alcohol-free excursion.

Adventure Tips

dress in layers

Weather in Alaska can change quickly; wearing layers keeps you comfortable throughout the day.

Bring binoculars

Enhance wildlife viewing chances with binoculars to spot eagles, bears, and marine animals from afar.

Protect the environment

Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine wilderness for future visitors.

Arrive early

Arriving early ensures you get the most out of your private tour and ideal viewing spots.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Sea otters
  • Bald eagles

History

The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with a rich history tied to indigenous cultures and Alaska’s fishing industry.

Conservation

The tour emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing and environmentally conscious practices to protect Alaska’s wilderness.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Ketchikan

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry during boat rides and sudden weather changes.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sturdy hiking shoes

Essential

Provides support and grip when exploring rugged terrain and shoreline.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sun protection

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen help shield you from intense sun exposure.

summer specific

Camera with zoom lens

Capture stunning wildlife and scenic vistas during your adventure.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific