Points of Interest
- Outdoor Adventures
- Saxman Native Village
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Imagine making s'mores over an open fire, breathing in the air scented with spruce and cedar, and quietly cruising through the forest aboard an open-air ATV buggy. So if your family are outdoor enthusiasts, or just love the thrill of discovering a new way to see this scenic wonderland, then this three-hour excursion is sure to delight one and all.
The excitement begins as you put on a raincoat, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera and step into the van that will shuttle you to the ATV staging area. After an informative safety lesson in the operation of your fully electric and silent 4WD vehicle (all drivers must be 25 years of age and older with a valid driver's license) you'll follow your guide to the camp.
Then set off on a scenic 30-minute ride through the lush and unspoiled Alaska rainforest full of centuries-old Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and western red cedar trees. Follow along pristine Saxman Creek, the natural spawning waters for coho, sockeye, pink and chum salmon, as well as various species of trout.
Each buggy is equipped with an interconnected radio so as you drive along you can hear the naturalist guide point out any particular sights of interest, as well as explain the area's history and geography. Discover how the island's indigenous people used the cedar trees for shelter, transportation and totem poles, and how the Sitka spruce, which can grow up to 229 feet high, is the largest of the world's spruces and Alaska's official state tree.
Be sure to glance down from time to time to see blueberry, salmonberry and huckleberry bushes that carpet the ground.
While driving under the canopy of these aromatic woods, you'll come to a clearing in the woods where a warm and welcoming fire awaits you. After you disembark, you can huddle around the fire and enjoy a hearty helping of blueberry and strawberry pancakes, hot chocolate, coffee and cider while enjoying the beauty that surrounds you. Of course, where there is a campfire there are s'mores, the ultimate sweet snack made with a chocolate bar and toasted marshmallows sandwiched between graham crackers.
After relaxing you'll climb back aboard your 4WD and make your way to a beautiful spot overlooking Nichols Passage and Tongass Narrows. You and your family can pose with the buggies with this incredible view as the back drop. You'll return down the mountain and take a beautiful trail into Saxman Native Village. Your guide will tell you incredible stories of the poles, view the carving shed that houses world famous carvers and you'll even have time in the exclusive Village Store for an opportunity to shop for authentic Native Alaskan made items.
Back at the ATV staging area, you'll climb aboard the shuttle and swap stories with your fellow passengers as you make your way back to the ship. This tour is ideal for multi-generational groups as all ages can enjoy this experience together and requires little walking to enjoy the quiet beauty of the southeast Alaska rainforest.
Special Notes:
Drivers must be at least 25 years of age and present a valid driver's license or other proof of age. Maximum of four guests per buggy and all eligible guests will have a chance to drive. Parties under four will share a buggy.Meal: Pancakes, fruit, s'mores (graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate,) coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider, bottled water
Liability waiver is required to be signed in the presence of the tour operator.
Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Details
Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.
Transfer from pier to ATV staging site
- Transport type:
- Van
- Transport Capacity:
- 10
- Travel time:
- 00:15
- Air conditioned:
- Yes
Operational briefing and ATV loading
- Time at site:
- 00:15
Scenic silent buggy ride to wilderness camp
- Transport type:
- ATV
- Transport Capacity:
- 4
- Travel time:
- 00:30
Wilderness camp stop - relax around fire and enjoy meal
- Time at site:
- 00:40
- Restroom available:
- Yes
Continue buggy ride to scenic overlook and on to Saxman
- Transport type:
- ATV
- Transport Capacity:
- 4
- Travel time:
- 00:15
Totem pole tour and shopping time at Saxman Native Village
- Time at site:
- 00:45
Return to staging area and then back to cruise ship pier
- Transport type:
- Van
- Transport Capacity:
- 10
- Travel time:
- 00:20
- Air conditioned:
- Yes