Yes. Transportation is provided from Berth 3 of the cruise terminal. Guests docking at Ward Cove can take the shuttle to the main terminal to catch this tour. Pick-up at Ward Cove may be provided upon request, and further details are included on your ticket voucher.
Guests arriving by air/ferry, locals, and all other non-cruise guests can arrange an alternative pick-up location with the tour operator. Further details are included on your ticket voucher.
No. Because the tour takes place in an Alaskan temperate rainforest, rain is likely and can be a beautiful part of the experience.
No. You will be walking on a trail the whole way. The route may include boulders, roots, and other obstacles to navigate around.
If needed, backpacks and trekking poles are available to use. Depending on availability, we have ponchos for those without rain gear, bottled water, and one pair of binoculars to share. Please bring your own rain gear if possible.
Unfortunately no. There are a limited amount of trails that allow commercial tours in the Ketchikan area. Deer Mountain and Dude Mountain are regulated by the Tongass National Forest, and commercially guided hikes on these trails are not allowed.
With your guide, you will be one of only a few tour groups permitted on the trail for this Mountain Lake Extended Tour.
This trail is not high-traffic for wildlife, so large animals are not often spotted. We have seen a deer on the trail once, and occasionally black bear scat can be found. In late summer, mountain goats are sometimes spotted on the ridges above us. Ravens, eagles, and loons are more common sights. This is not a designated wildlife tour.
Yes, your guide will have bear spray. You are unlikely to see a bear, but it is an important precaution anywhere in the Alaskan wilderness.
Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour. Water bottles are provided, but you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own. Please be aware that this is a Leave No Trace excursion. If no trash facility is available on the trail you will need to carry any/all trash with you.
We recommend a warm outerwear layer (sweatshirt/jacket/sweater), rain gear, and hat/gloves as needed. Ketchikan is very rainy and you should anticipate getting wet. Please wear sufficient hiking boots/shoes.
Face masks may be required on this tour, which the operator can provide. If you have a specific type of mask requirement or preference, please bring your own.
Check out other frequently asked questions here!