Stikine River Wilderness Tour

Planning a trip to Alaska and eager to see its legendary wilderness? The Stikine River Wilderness Tour offers a chance to experience some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes North America has to offer. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and why it might just be the adventure you’re craving.

What really gets us excited about this experience are the chance to see wildlife like moose, eagles, and even bears, as well as the opportunity to drift among floating icebergs in a glacier-fed lake. Plus, the small-group setting promises a more intimate, personalized adventure. On the flip side, it’s a four-hour tour, so don’t expect a full-day expedition—perfect if you’re looking for a taste of wilderness without a huge time commitment. It’s best suited for those who love nature, wildlife, and dramatic scenery, and are comfortable with boat rides and variable weather.

One thing to keep in mind: lunch isn’t included, so bringing your own is a good idea if you’d like a picnic on the water. This tour feels like a fantastic choice for active travelers, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting to add an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience to their trip. Now, let’s break down what this adventure involves and why it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see moose, bald eagles, seals, and possibly black bears along the shoreline.
• Glacial Beauty: Stand on floating icebergs at Shakes Lake and admire the active calving of Shakes Glacier.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by knowledgeable local captains and guides who point out wildlife and explain the landscape.
• Comfort & Convenience: Features include heated cabins, comfortable seats, snacks, water, and restroom facilities on board.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Weather Considerations: The trip is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible but fully refundable if poor weather occurs.

Exploring the Details of the Stikine River Wilderness Tour

An Introduction to the Route and Experience

This four-hour journey begins right in Wrangell, a charming Alaskan town with a storied past. From there, you’ll board a high-speed custom boat built for comfort and exploration, designed to handle the braided, glacier-fed waters of the Stikine River. As the boat glides through the river’s twists and turns, you’ll get a real sense of the untouched wilderness that defines this part of Alaska.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenery, wildlife, and glacial sights. It’s not just about the thrill of a boat ride; it’s about experiencing a landscape that feels truly wild and far from the crowds. The guide’s knowledge enriches the trip, pointing out wildlife and explaining the geology and ecology of the area.

The Stops and What You’ll See

The Braided Stikine River

The journey begins with a cruise through the river’s braided channels, a feature that makes this waterway unique. These channels twist through dense forests and steep canyon walls, creating a landscape that looks like a puzzle of water and land. The river’s glacier-fed waters are rich in wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a moose quietly grazing along the shoreline or a bald eagle perched high in the trees.

The reviews emphasize the stunning views and abundant wildlife. One reviewer mentioned seeing mama moose and her calf swimming, which illustrates how close you can get to nature. The opportunity to see seals and eagles adds to the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural environment.

Shakes Lake and Glacier

The highlight for many is the stop at Shakes Lake, a pristine, glacier-fed body of water filled with floating icebergs calved from the nearby Shakes Glacier. Here, you get to drift among the icebergs and witness the active calving process—where chunks of ice break off from the glacier’s face and tumble into the lake. It’s a rare sight that few get to see in person, and it offers a surreal, almost otherworldly experience.

The rugged mountain peaks surrounding the lake frame the scene perfectly. One reviewer mentioned standing on an iceberg, which sounds like a fun, if chilly, photo opportunity and a memorable part of the trip.

The Guided Experience and Small-Group Dynamics

The tour is led by a knowledgeable local captain and guide, who makes the experience informative and engaging. They point out wildlife, give insights into the landscape’s formation, and ensure everyone stays comfortable and safe. From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides go out of their way to maximize your chances of wildlife encounters and to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group size offers a more relaxed atmosphere and individual attention. It’s a great choice for those who prefer an intimate, less touristy experience.

Comfort and Amenities

Onboard, you’ll find heated cabins and comfortable forward-facing seats—a welcome feature if the weather turns chilly or rainy, which is common in Alaska. Snacks and water are included, but lunch is not, so bringing some food along is advisable. The boat also has a restroom, so you won’t need to worry about breaks during the trip.

Duration, Pricing, and Value

At $249 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the remote locations visited and the exclusive access to wilderness areas. It’s about a four-hour experience, making it a manageable half-day adventure that can fit nicely into a broader trip itinerary. The reviews praise the value, with one mentioning the tour lasted about five hours—an extra half-hour of wildlife and scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in seeing Alaska’s unspoiled wilderness. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate a small-group, personalized experience and want to avoid large crowds. If you’re comfortable on boats and enjoy being outdoors in variable weather, this trip will likely be right up your alley.

It’s not necessarily designed for families with very young children, but older kids and teenagers who enjoy wildlife and scenery should find it captivating. Remember, the tour requires good weather—so it’s best to plan for a flexible schedule or a backup plan in case of cancellations.

Final Thoughts: Is the Stikine River Wilderness Tour Worth It?

For those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this tour offers a unique window into Alaska’s wild heart. The chance to see wildlife, floating icebergs, and glaciers all in one trip makes it a compelling choice. The expert guides and small-group setting add to the overall experience, making it both educational and personal.

The value is evident—though it’s not a full-day tour, it packs in plenty of scenic and wildlife encounters. The price reflects access to some of North America’s last untouched landscapes, and the amenities onboard ensure comfort during the journey. Plus, the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

If you’re ready for an adventure filled with stunning views, wildlife sightings, and a true sense of wilderness, the Stikine River Wilderness Tour could very well be a highlight of your Alaska trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it could be suitable for older kids who enjoy wildlife and outdoor adventures. Always check with the provider if you have young children.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’re welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it on the boat or at the stops.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and prepare for variable weather. A waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you want to stand on icebergs.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
There’s no specific information on accessibility, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have mobility concerns.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see moose, bald eagles, seals, and possibly black bears along the shoreline.

How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is about four hours, but some reviews mention it lasted closer to five hours.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same meeting point: 4 Front St, Wrangell, AK.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 19 days ahead, so planning early is a good idea, especially during peak season.

This Stikine River Wilderness Tour stands out as a genuine chance to connect with Alaska’s wild side in a comfort-aware, small-group setting. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a glacier fanatic, or simply someone craving scenic adventure, this trip offers a slice of Alaska few get to see.