Ketchikan: Tongass Forest Alaska Bigfoot ATV Ride and Hike

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and looking for a unique way to explore the wilderness, the Tongass Forest Alaska Bigfoot ATV Ride and Hike could be just the thing. This tour offers a mix of adventure and storytelling—perfect if you’re curious about the legends of Sasquatch or just want to experience the lush rainforest from a different perspective. It’s a well-rated experience, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from 30 reviews, which says a lot about how much travelers enjoy it.

What really makes this excursion stand out are the guides’ local knowledge and the chance to see the forest’s natural beauty while having fun on ATVs. Plus, the story element of Bigfoot adds a quirky twist that appeals to those interested in legends or just looking for some lighthearted entertainment. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short activity—just about 2.5 hours—and might feel a bit rushed if you’re looking to spend an entire day in the woods.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity, educational commentary, and a dash of mystery. It’s particularly attractive for those who want a manageable, family-friendly adventure that doesn’t involve long hikes or strenuous activity. However, if you’re looking for a more intense wilderness experience or a full day in nature, you might find this is a bit on the light side.

Key Points

• Short but engaging: At around 2.5 hours, this tour packs in plenty of fun without demanding too much time.
• Knowledgeable guides: Local guides share stories, plant and animal info, and legends, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
• Scenic and fun: Traverse well-maintained gravel trails, cross bridges, and enjoy the lush scenery of the Tongass National Forest.
• Bigfoot legend: For those intrigued by Sasquatch, the stories and the replica Bigfoot are memorable highlights.
• Comfortable transportation: Includes pickup and drop-off from the cruise port, with air-conditioned vans making the journey comfortable.
• Family-friendly (with some considerations): Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, but suitable for most others with decent walking ability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at the tour experience

Starting with the Pickup and Town Tour

The adventure kicks off right at the cruise ship docks, where your guide will pick you up and take you on a quick tour of Ketchikan. This is a nice way to get a touch of the local vibe before heading into the forest. The vans are air-conditioned, making the transfer comfortable—important in Alaskan weather, which can be unpredictable.

Journey into the Forest by ATV

From there, you’ll hop into shared UTVs, which whisk you away from town into the heart of the Tongass National Forest. The gravel trails are well-maintained, and you’ll travel through the woods, crossing small bridges and climbing stairs along the way. The ride is short but lively, giving you a taste of Alaska’s rugged outdoors without the exhaustion of a lengthy ride.

Hike in the Moss-Covered Wilderness

Once at the trailhead, the hiking begins. This isn’t a strenuous trek—more of a walk suitable for most people who can handle a casual trail. We loved the way guides point out the diverse flora and fauna, passing informative kiosks that explain local plants used for food or medicine. The moss-draped trees and the peaceful creek setting make it a calming, scenic environment.

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Bigfoot Stories and Encounters

The highlight for many is, naturally, the Bigfoot legend. Guides share stories about Sasquatch stomping grounds, and there’s even a chance to see a full-sized, motion-activated replica of Bigfoot. Several reviews mentioned sightings or glimpses of the creature, which adds a fun, mysterious element to the hike. Even if you don’t see the legendary beast, the stories and the replica make for great photo opportunities.

Refreshment Break and Final Thoughts

Midway through, you’ll pause for a hot chocolate or coffee, paired with a gourmet cookie—an appreciated touch that gives everyone a chance to relax and take in the surroundings. This break also provides a chance to chat with your guide and learn more about the area’s legends and natural history.

Return Journey

After the hike, you’ll hop back into the van for the ride back to the cruise port, ending the experience with a sense of having explored and learned a little about Alaska’s wilderness.

What’s Included and Pricing

For $149 per person, the tour includes:
– Pickup and drop-off from the cruise port
– Transportation in an air-conditioned van
– Guided ATV ride to the trailhead
– Guided Bigfoot and nature hike
– Hot chocolate or coffee, plus a gourmet cookie

This price offers good value if you’re after a fun, guided outdoor experience that combines scenic drives, light hiking, and storytelling. It’s designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most, with small group sizes (limited to 8 participants) ensuring a personalized touch.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One traveler shared, “Lexis was our guide and we were the only ones on the tour so it turned out to be a private experience,” emphasizing how flexible and engaging guides make a difference. Others loved the stunning rainforest scenery, describing it as “absolutely beautiful,” and found the Bigfoot stories fun and lighthearted.

A few reviews also mention that the ATV ride is shorter than some might expect—it’s about 10 minutes—but the guiding, storytelling, and scenery more than compensate for this brief ride. The hike itself is described as “easy and super fun,” which makes it accessible for most people, including those who aren’t avid hikers.

Authentic Encounters and Legends

The stories of Bigfoot are a major draw, and several reviewers mentioned sightings or encounters—real or imagined—that made the experience memorable. The replica Bigfoot adds an element of fun for photos and keeps the playful curiosity alive.

Guides’ Local Knowledge

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their depth of knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and legends. This adds a layer of richness to what might otherwise be a simple outdoor activity, turning it into an educational experience that leaves you feeling more connected to the area.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 2.5 hours makes it a perfect half-day outing, especially if you have other excursions planned.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 8) mean you get more personal attention from guides.
• Clothing: Dress warmly and wear hiking shoes; the weather can change quickly in Alaska, and the trail might be damp.
• Not suitable for: Children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to walking on the trail.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy light hiking and storytelling, wildlife enthusiasts, or those simply looking for a fun, relaxed way to explore the rainforest. If you love local legends and aren’t afraid of a little mystery, the Bigfoot angle makes it even more appealing. Families with older children who can handle walking should find it manageable and engaging, but it’s not suited for the very young or those with mobility challenges.

The Sum Up

The Ketchikan Tongass Forest Bigfoot ATV Ride and Hike offers a delightful blend of scenic exploration, light adventure, and storytelling. It’s a relaxed yet immersive way to experience Alaska’s lush wilderness without committing to long hikes or strenuous activities. The guides’ local knowledge and the chance to hear Bigfoot stories add a special flavor that makes it memorable.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a taste of Alaska’s natural beauty paired with some entertaining legends. It’s a perfect option if you’re after a manageable, family-friendly outing that combines scenery, education, and a touch of fun.

If you’re the type to enjoy stories about mysterious creatures, love spotting wildlife, or simply want an easygoing outdoor experience, this tour is a solid choice. Just keep in mind—it’s on the shorter side, so if you’re craving an all-day wilderness adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 6 due to the walking involved. Older children who can handle walking on trails should be fine.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, weather-appropriate gear, and hiking shoes. The trail can be damp and the weather changeable, so layered clothing is wise.

How long does the ATV ride last?
The ATV ride to the trailhead lasts about 10 minutes, so expect a quick but enjoyable ride into the forest.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, but hot chocolate or coffee and a gourmet cookie are provided during the break.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, walking on the trail requires some mobility; it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Will I see Bigfoot for sure?
While sightings are playful and part of the fun, many reviews mention glimpses or encounters with the replica Bigfoot, but it’s not guaranteed.

What’s the main appeal of this tour?
It’s the combination of scenic rainforest exploration, engaging guides, and fun Bigfoot stories—all wrapped into a comfortable, manageable activity perfect for a half-day outing.

This tour offers a charming, accessible taste of Ketchikan’s wilderness combined with stories that spark the imagination. It’s a genuine, well-reviewed experience that balances natural beauty with a dash of myth—perfect if that sounds like your kind of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: