From Ketchikan: Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking to get a real taste of Alaska’s wild side, the Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour might just be what you need. This guided adventure offers a chance to explore the rugged beauty of George Inlet Fjord and the vast Tongass National Forest, all from the seat of a UTV. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

What caught my eye is how many reviewers rave about their guides’ friendliness and knowledge — a huge plus for outdoor adventures. Plus, the scenery seems truly stunning, with plenty of opportunities to see untouched wilderness and dramatic landscapes. On the flip side, the tour involves quite a bit of mud, so if you’re not into dirty rides or have certain physical limits, that’s worth considering. This experience feels best suited for those craving adventure, scenic views, and a taste of Alaska’s wild terrain, especially if you’re comfortable with off-road vehicles.

Key Points

• Guided off-road adventure through the Tongass National Forest and along George Inlet Fjord.
• About 5 miles of muddy trails that get you off the beaten path and into nature.
• Remote Mahoney Lake offers peaceful scenery away from crowds.
• Lunch at basecamp provides a hearty meal with hot drinks, perfect after the ride.
• Small group size (max 8) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Price at $265 includes transportation, guide, UTV, and lunch — good value for an all-in wilderness tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Mahoney Lake UTV Tour?

This tour is designed to give travelers a taste of Alaska’s wilderness without the need for extensive hiking or boating. It starts in downtown Ketchikan, where you’ll meet your guide, and then head out to the White River base camp. The journey includes a quick UTV training session — don’t worry if you’re new to these vehicles, the guides are clear and friendly. Once you’re comfortable, you’ll hit the trails.

The ride covers about 5 miles of muddy, rugged paths that wind through forests, along fjords, and finally to the tranquil shores of Mahoney Lake. After exploring, you’ll return to basecamp for a well-earned lunch and hot drinks, all while enjoying views of the water and forest.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point and Transfers

The adventure kicks off in downtown Ketchikan at the Visitors Center near “The Rock” statue. It’s a short walk from the cruise docks, making this tour easy to access if you’re arriving by cruise ship. For those coming from the Ward Cove Cruise Terminal, there’s a complimentary shuttle that takes around 20-25 minutes to downtown. These transfer options are convenient, especially if you’re tight on time or prefer not to self-transport.

The Drive to Basecamp

From downtown, you’ll drive out to the White River base camp. This part of the experience is an opportunity to learn about Ketchikan’s history and see sites like the Ward Cove Pulp Mill — a bit of local flavor before heading into wilderness.

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UTV Training and Trail Riding

Once at basecamp, the guides provide a short UTV training session, ensuring everyone feels comfortable operating or riding as a passenger. After that, the fun begins. You’ll tear along muddy trails, navigating through forests and along fjordland. Expect some splashes and dirt — this isn’t a polished, paved ride. Instead, it’s authentic off-road fun that gets you into the heart of nature.

Reaching Mahoney Lake

The highlight is arriving at Mahoney Lake, a serene, remote spot perfect for soaking in the scenery. The calm water, surrounded by untouched forest, offers a peaceful break from the usual busy tourist spots. Reviewers mention the experience of reaching this quiet, scenic spot as especially rewarding after the muddy adventure.

Return and Lunch

Back at basecamp, a hearty lunch awaits, served at a picnic table overlooking the water. The meal includes hot drinks, and many reviewers say the food exceeds expectations, with some describing it as quite good or satisfying after the ride.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who don’t mind getting muddy and are eager to see Alaska’s wilderness from a different perspective. If you enjoy outdoor activities, off-road vehicles, and scenic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good choice if you want a small group experience — limited to 8 participants, it feels more intimate and personal.

Travelers who prefer more structured or luxurious experiences might find the rugged nature a bit too raw, especially considering the muddy trails and the basic picnic-style lunch. Also, note that drivers must be at least 18 years old with a driver’s license, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals over 300 lbs.

The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the ride more enjoyable and informative. Many comment on the breathtaking scenery — from lush rainforests to fjord views — making the muddy trek feel worthwhile. One reviewer said, “Great time, beautiful scenery,” and praised the guides Bridgette and Colin for their kindness and interesting info.

That said, a few reviews point out some logistical hiccups. For example, one traveler noted that the drive to basecamp took about half of the paid time, which cut into the actual riding experience. Another mentioned that the lunch, while tasty, was just a picnic at a basic table rather than a scenic campfire meal as some might expect. These are worth considering if you’re after a more polished, scenic picnic experience.

The Value for Money

At $265 per person, the price includes round-trip transportation, a guide, UTV training, the ride itself, and a lunch with hot drinks. For those wanting to combine adventure with scenery and cultural insights, it’s a solid deal. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which many find adds to the sense of fun and safety.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour offers a fun, adventurous way to explore Alaska’s wilderness with expert guides leading the way. The combination of muddy trails, stunning views, and a peaceful reward at the lake makes it a memorable experience. The inclusion of a satisfying lunch and transportation makes it convenient, especially for cruise passengers.

While it’s not perfect — some might find the ride a bit muddy or the lunch basic — it’s an authentic taste of outdoor Alaska that many travelers cherish. If you’re eager for adventure, love nature, and don’t mind getting a little dirty, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
This tour is primarily designed for adults, as drivers need to be 18+ with a valid license. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, and the off-road nature might be too rugged for younger children.

How long is the ride?
The total tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including transport, training, riding, and lunch. The actual time spent on the trails is likely less, but the experience covers about 5 miles of off-road paths.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, layered outdoor clothing. Be prepared to get muddy, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes are a must.

Can I drive the UTV?
Yes, you can! Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a driver’s license. If you prefer to sit as a passenger, ask when booking — the guides are accommodating.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your fare covers transportation to and from Ketchikan, guide services, UTV training, the ride itself, lunch, and hot drinks.

Is there a lot of waiting or downtime?
The reviews suggest the experience is quite active, with most of the time spent riding. Some mention that the drive to the basecamp takes a good chunk of the tour, which might feel like downtime.

What if I get too muddy or dirty?
Expect to get muddy. The trails are definitely off-road, so plan to wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. The guides probably have best practices for cleaning up afterward.

Are there any restrictions for health conditions?
Yes, pregnant women, anyone with back problems, or over 300 lbs should consider whether this adventure suits them, as it involves off-road driving on rugged terrain.

This UTV tour from Ketchikan offers a terrific way to see Alaska’s wilderness from a new angle. If you’re comfortable with some dirt, enjoy scenic landscapes, and want a guided experience with friendly hosts, you’ll likely find this to be a memorable part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: