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Explore Alaska's largest national forest and its abundant wildlife on a guided four-hour kayak tour through Clover Pass. Paddle serene waterways, encounter sea lions and bald eagles, and learn about the coastal ecosystem from expert guides.
Explore Alaska's largest national forest and its abundant wildlife on a guided four-hour kayak tour through Clover Pass. Paddle serene waterways, encounter sea lions and bald eagles, and learn about the coastal ecosystem from expert guides.
Set your paddle in the calm waters fifteen miles north of Ketchikan, where the Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest—presses its dense green edges against sapphire ocean waves. The Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour unfolds here, offering a four-hour immersion into an ecosystem where rainforest islands dare you to explore tangled shores and intertidal life brims beneath rippling currents.
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Operated by Ketchikan Kayak Company · Ketchikan, Alaska
Set your paddle in the calm waters fifteen miles north of Ketchikan, where the Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest—presses its dense green edges against sapphire ocean waves. The Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour unfolds here, offering a four-hour immersion into an ecosystem where rainforest islands dare you to explore tangled shores and intertidal life brims beneath rippling currents.
Your journey begins on still water beneath a sky often cleared by a microclimate that favors Clover Pass over the typical moisture of downtown Ketchikan. As you glide away from the docks, the dense foliage of spruce, hemlock, and cedar leans toward the sea, while resident Steller sea lions bark from their rocky haul-outs, their voices riding the breeze.
Paddling tandem sit-inside kayaks provided for stability and space, you’ll meander around three scenic islands, each with its own character. Bald eagles, fixtures here with nests often hosting fledglings, wheel overhead with a commanding presence. Seals slip through tidal inlets, curious at your approach. Occasionally, the deep blue of the ocean shivers as humpback whales breach or porpoises dart, while salmon jump with defiant energy in the shallows below.
This eco-tour transcends mere paddling. Guided by seasoned locals and educators who share their knowledge of rainforest ecology and tidal life, you’ll pause often—eyes fixed on clusters of sea stars, urchins, and limpets clinging to submerged rock faces, an underwater city waiting with stories.
The tour’s pace is unhurried, letting nature dictate your rhythm. After your paddle, return to shore with a sense of discovery, warmed by local smoked salmon, dips, and hot beverages. Small group sizes (capped at 12 guests) and expert guide ratios (6:1) ensure an intimate experience focused on connection, not speed.
Pragmatically, the tour includes full rain gear and transportation from downtown cruise docks or Ward Cove, accommodating most cruise schedules with hassle-free pickup. Dress comfortably for a forest hike and prepare your feet for confined kayak cockpit spaces—bulky boots won’t fit. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, though those with back or heart issues should proceed with caution.
For travelers seeking a wildlife-focused paddle through Alaska’s lush rainforest edge, this tour perfectly balances adventure, education, and accessibility.
NearbyCity: Ketchikan, Alaska
No experience is necessary; guides provide a brief lesson before launching, and tandem kayaks offer stability.
Wildlife is abundant but sightings cannot be guaranteed; guides will navigate to maximize chances based on conditions.
Children must be at least six years old and accompanied by an adult; contact the company if younger children may qualify.
Dress in layers appropriate for outdoor hiking; wear footwear that fits inside kayak cockpits, avoiding bulky boots.
Yes, private transportation from downtown cruise docks and Ward Cove is included with the tour.
Tours may be canceled for bad weather with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure.
Ketchikan Kayak Company operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Set your paddle in the calm waters fifteen miles north of Ketchikan, where the Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest—presses its dense green edges against sapphire ocean waves. The Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour unfolds here, offering a four-hour immersion into an ecosystem where rainforest islands dare you to explore tangled shores and intertidal life brims beneath rippling currents.
Set your paddle in the calm waters fifteen miles north of Ketchikan, where the Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest—presses its dense green edges against sapphire ocean waves. The Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour unfolds here, offering a four-hour immersion into an ecosystem where rainforest islands dare you to explore tangled shores and intertidal life brims beneath rippling currents.
Your journey begins on still water beneath a sky often cleared by a microclimate that favors Clover Pass over the typical moisture of downtown Ketchikan. As you glide away from the docks, the dense foliage of spruce, hemlock, and cedar leans toward the sea, while resident Steller sea lions bark from their rocky haul-outs, their voices riding the breeze.
Paddling tandem sit-inside kayaks provided for stability and space, you’ll meander around three scenic islands, each with its own character. Bald eagles, fixtures here with nests often hosting fledglings, wheel overhead with a commanding presence. Seals slip through tidal inlets, curious at your approach. Occasionally, the deep blue of the ocean shivers as humpback whales breach or porpoises dart, while salmon jump with defiant energy in the shallows below.
This eco-tour transcends mere paddling. Guided by seasoned locals and educators who share their knowledge of rainforest ecology and tidal life, you’ll pause often—eyes fixed on clusters of sea stars, urchins, and limpets clinging to submerged rock faces, an underwater city waiting with stories.
The tour’s pace is unhurried, letting nature dictate your rhythm. After your paddle, return to shore with a sense of discovery, warmed by local smoked salmon, dips, and hot beverages. Small group sizes (capped at 12 guests) and expert guide ratios (6:1) ensure an intimate experience focused on connection, not speed.
Pragmatically, the tour includes full rain gear and transportation from downtown cruise docks or Ward Cove, accommodating most cruise schedules with hassle-free pickup. Dress comfortably for a forest hike and prepare your feet for confined kayak cockpit spaces—bulky boots won’t fit. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, though those with back or heart issues should proceed with caution.
For travelers seeking a wildlife-focused paddle through Alaska’s lush rainforest edge, this tour perfectly balances adventure, education, and accessibility.
NearbyCity: Ketchikan, Alaska