Segway Coastal Scenic Rainforest Tour

Exploring Juneau on a Segway: A Detailed Look at the Coastal Rainforest Tour

If you’re considering a unique way to experience Alaska’s stunning landscape, the Segway Coastal Scenic Rainforest Tour in Juneau might just be the adventure you’re after. This tour offers a hands-on approach to seeing the sights, combining fun, nature, and a bit of tech. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a solid choice for those wanting an active, photography-friendly outing.

What we love about this experience is how it maximizes your sightseeing time—covering a fair bit of ground on a Segway, which is always fun and a bit different. Plus, the focus on photography means you’ll walk away with some memorable shots of Mendenhall Glacier and the Tongass National Forest. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suited for everyone; some might find the riding requirements a bit restrictive, especially if balancing isn’t your strong suit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, scenery, and don’t mind a bit of adventure on wheels. If you’re comfortable on a Segway and eager to see some of Alaska’s most iconic natural spots, this could be just the thing for you.

Key Points

• Efficient Exploration: Cover a lot of ground on a Segway, freeing up time to enjoy the scenery.
• Photographic Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture stunning images of glaciers and forests.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides add depth with insights about the area’s wildlife and nature.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) make for a more personal experience.
• Weather Considerations: Rain or shine, the tour usually goes on—be prepared for changing weather.
• Age & Physical Requirements: Suitable for ages 8-70, but balancing ability and weight restrictions apply.

What to Expect from the Coastal Scenic Rainforest Tour

This roughly three-hour journey starts at the meeting point on Franklin Street in downtown Juneau. After a safety briefing—that’s pretty straightforward—you’ll get to practice riding your Segway. Most people find they learn quickly, and guides are typically helpful and patient, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

Once on the Segway, you’ll cruise along scenic routes that highlight Juneau’s diverse landscapes. The focus is on sightseeing and photography, so you’ll want to have your camera or phone ready. The staff and guides seem skilled at pointing out the best spots for shots, whether it’s the distant glacier or the lush greenery of the Tongass.

The Highlights

Mendenhall Glacier is a major draw. The guides typically take you close enough to appreciate its grandeur, but it’s not a full glacier hike—more of a scenic viewing and photo op. Reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable about the local wildlife and natural environment, which enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in nature.

Lynn Canal also features in the route, giving you sweeping views over the water, which make for excellent photos and peaceful moments. Many mention being lucky enough to spot local wildlife like bald eagles and seals—an added bonus if you’re into birdwatching or just love observing animals in their habitat.

A Secluded Beach Stop is included, where you can stretch your legs and take in the views. This part of the tour is appreciated for the tranquility and the chance to just breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenery.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the experience enjoyable—even for nervous first-timers. “William was such an awesome tour guide,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing how guides help build confidence. Others praised guides like Kacie, James, and Phoenix for their helpfulness and educational input.

The fact that the tour is limited to 10 travelers makes it feel more intimate, allowing guides to give personalized attention. This is especially helpful if you’re unsure about riding a Segway or want some tips on photography.

Weather & Practical Tips

While rain was noted in some reviews, most travelers found the itinerary still enjoyable. You’ll want to dress in layers and bring waterproof gear if rain is forecasted. The tour operates rain or shine, and guides seem prepared for variable weather.

Participants must be between 100lbs and 265lbs, and should be able to balance on one foot while looking down for 10 seconds—so it’s not suitable for everyone. Also, closed-toed shoes are mandatory, and those with balancing issues or under 8 or over 70 might find it unsuitable.

Cost & Value

At $164.95 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. Considering the small-group setting, expert guides, scenic stops, and photo opportunities, many feel it’s a good value—especially if you’re eager to make the most of your limited time in Juneau. It’s an active, engaging way to see parts of the area that might be less accessible on traditional tours.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the meeting point with a safety lesson that’s quick and clear. Afterward, you’ll practice riding the Segway, which most find surprisingly easy to pick up. Once comfortable, the group heads out, typically along a route that takes in the beauty of the Tongass National Forest.

The route usually includes a scenic drive past the coastline, with stops to admire the views and take photos. The Mendenhall Glacier is a highlight, offering a stunning backdrop for photos—many travelers comment on how impressive it looks up close, even from a distance.

From there, the group moves to a quiet beach, away from busy roads, where the serenity of nature is most palpable. It’s a perfect spot for a brief walk, some photos, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

The Scenic & Wildlife Stops

Several reviewers mentioned spotting bald eagles and seals, which adds to the feeling of being immersed in Alaska’s wilderness. The guides’ expertise makes these spotting opportunities more likely, adding depth to the experience.

The Ride

The ride itself is described as fun and informative. Rain or shine, travelers seem to enjoy the ride, with many noting how quickly they learned and how much fun they had. The tour’s pace is manageable, making it accessible for most people—though those with balance issues or under the minimum weight are advised to skip it.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Segway Coastal Scenic Rainforest Tour is a smart pick for travelers who want an active, scenic, and photography-oriented experience. It’s ideal for those comfortable on a Segway and eager to explore Alaska’s natural beauty without extensive hiking. If you prefer guided experiences with knowledgeable local guides and small groups, you’ll likely find this memorable.

However, if you’re not comfortable on a Segway or have difficulty with balance, this tour might not be suitable. Also, if you’re hoping for a glacier hike or more in-depth wildlife viewing, you might want to consider other options. Still, for an engaging, scenic overview of Juneau’s coast and rainforest, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and up can participate, with riders under 14 riding an electric Pone. However, they need to meet the balance and weight requirements.

What should I wear?
Closed-toed shoes are required. Dressing in layers is recommended because weather can change quickly, and rain is a possibility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including safety briefing, riding time, and stops.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the Segway rental, guide services, and scenic stops. You’ll need your own camera for photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What if it rains on the day?
The tour proceeds rain or shine; just dress appropriately. Many reviews mention enjoying the experience despite rainy weather.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests often praise the guides for their helpfulness, knowledge of flora and fauna, and personality.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of fun riding, scenic views, wildlife spotting, and expert guides creates a memorable way to experience Juneau’s natural beauty.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

If you’re looking for an active, scenic, and photo-friendly way to see some of Alaska’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s a chance to enjoy the outdoors, learn about the local environment, and have some fun on wheels—all in just a few hours. Just be sure to meet the requirements and dress for the weather, and you’re set for a memorable trip in Juneau.