Alaska Self Guided Trails

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Alaska offers some of the most scenic hiking trails accessible from popular cruise ports. These hikes range from easy walks suitable for families to more challenging treks. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best hikes at Alaska cruise ports, including family-friendly trails:

1. Juneau: Mount Roberts Trail

• Trail Overview: The Mount Roberts Trail is accessible right from the cruise port. You can either hike all the way up or take the Mount Roberts Tramway partway up and hike from there. The trail offers breathtaking views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding forests.
• Distance: 5 miles round-trip (if hiking from the base)
• Difficulty: Moderate (the first part is steep, but the tram option reduces difficulty)
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• If hiking with children, consider taking the tram part of the way up, then explore the shorter trails at the top, including a gentle 1-mile loop.
• The visitor center at the top of the tram offers educational exhibits about the area’s wildlife and culture, making it engaging for kids.
• What to Bring: Snacks, water, layers for changing weather, and sturdy shoes.

2. Ketchikan: Deer Mountain Trail

• Trail Overview: Starting just 1 mile from the cruise port, Deer Mountain Trail offers stunning views of Ketchikan, nearby islands, and mountains. The trail is steep but well-maintained, passing through lush forests with excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Distance: 6.7 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (the ascent is steep, but families with older children or teens will enjoy the challenge)
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• You don’t have to do the entire trail. There’s a viewpoint about 1 mile in that offers a great spot for families to rest and take in the scenery.
• Bring binoculars to spot wildlife along the way.
• What to Bring: Snacks, plenty of water, bug spray, rain gear (it’s often wet in Ketchikan).

3. Skagway: Lower Dewey Lake Trail

• Trail Overview: This trail starts near the cruise dock and takes you through beautiful alpine scenery to Lower Dewey Lake. The trail is popular for its easy access and relatively short length, making it perfect for families.
• Distance: 3 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Moderate (there’s some elevation gain at the start, but the trail flattens out)
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• This is a great picnic hike. Pack a lunch to enjoy by the lake, where there’s plenty of space for kids to run around.
• Keep an eye on the weather as it can change quickly.
• What to Bring: Picnic lunch, water, jackets, and good shoes for the uphill section.

4. Sitka: Totem Trail in Sitka National Historical Park

• Trail Overview: Located about a mile from the cruise terminal, Totem Trail is a flat, easy path winding through a forested area filled with traditional totem poles. The trail offers stunning coastal views and is perfect for learning about the local Native culture.
• Distance: 1-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• Ideal for younger children or those who prefer a leisurely walk.
• Visit the park’s visitor center before or after your walk to learn more about Tlingit and Haida cultures.
• There are restrooms and picnic areas near the trailhead.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera for taking pictures of the totems, and light snacks.

5. Icy Strait Point: Nature Trail to Cannery

• Trail Overview: This is an easy and flat trail that winds through forested areas, leading to the historic Hoonah Cannery. It’s a family-friendly option that offers a great combination of nature and history.
• Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• This trail is stroller-friendly, making it a great option for families with younger children.
• There are educational signs along the trail about the local wildlife and plant life, adding an engaging element for kids.
• Visit the nearby zip-line or bear-viewing tour for more adventurous family activities.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a jacket.

6. Seward (pre- or post-cruise port): Exit Glacier - Harding Icefield Trail

• Trail Overview: This is one of the more iconic hikes in Alaska, located near Seward. While the full Harding Icefield Trail is challenging, families can hike to the Glacier View area for an easier adventure.
• Distance: 2 miles round-trip to the glacier overlook
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (just do the first section for a family-friendly option)
• Family-Friendly Tips:
• The 2-mile hike to the Glacier View is perfect for kids and offers stunning views of Exit Glacier.
• Bring snacks or have lunch at one of the scenic spots.
• Take the ranger-led tour, which adds educational value to the hike.
• What to Bring: Warm layers, water, and snacks.

General Tips for Family Hiking in Alaska

• Weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress in layers, carry rain gear, and wear sturdy shoes, as trails can be muddy.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, but remember to maintain a safe distance from animals like bears and moose. It’s a good idea to carry bear spray, especially on longer hikes.
• Plan for Time: Check your cruise’s schedule to make sure you have enough time to complete the hike and return to the ship without rushing.
• Snacks & Water: Most trails don’t have places to buy food or drinks, so pack enough snacks and water for your family.
• Stroller-Friendly Trails: Totem Trail in Sitka and the Nature Trail at Icy Strait Point are good options for families with strollers.

These trails offer the perfect combination of Alaska’s stunning scenery and outdoor adventure, allowing families to experience nature together while cruising through the state’s beautiful ports.

 

Provided by:  Vacationguy.com

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