Bicycle around the village of Hoonah for an up-close and personal look at Alaska's largest Tlingit settlement.
After receiving a safety briefing and being fitted for your bicycle and helmet, you will climb aboard your bike and begin your 8-mile cycling tour by first heading to the ferry terminal. Here, you'll learn about the Alaska Marine Highway, which is the ferry service operated by the state of Alaska. There are routes throughout southeastern Alaska and Hoonah is just one of the spectacular stops.
Bicycling is a great way to get an intimate view of the area and learn its most fascinating facts, as your local guides are exceptionally knowledgeable. Next, you'll ride to the harbor, a naturally protected area at the crossroads of Icy Strait and Glacier Bay. Even the name "Hoonah" reflects the harbor's well-chosen location as it translates as "where the north wind doesn't blow" in the language of the indigenous Tlingit Indians.
You will discover more about the Tlingits as you bike along the loop that takes you from the harbor to the airport to a school where several totem poles are displayed. Each wooden totem tells a story of Indian history, culture or legend. It's truly enlightening, as is the entire tour around this charming fishing village of approximately 900 residents.
Traveling at a comfortable pace, you will be treated to a wonderful and intimate exploration of Hoonah. Along with the picturesque scenery you will be viewing, there is also bountiful wildlife in the surrounding waters and forest so you will want to be sure to bring along your camera.
Please note: This tour includes limited walking as it is primarily a cycling tour. There are some moderately hilly dirt and paved roads to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns and participants should be in good physical condition. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed on the tour and children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. There is a minimum height requirement of 4'6" to participate. Closed-toe athletic shoes; warm layered clothing and waterproof outerwear are suggested. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver before being allowed to take part in the tour.