Kayak and Hike Adventure Combination
Our kayaking and hiking adventure is for visitors with a full day in Ketchikan and a desire to experience Alaska off the beaten path. This tour works best for travellers who are staying overnight in Ketchikan, however we can fit the tour into some cruise ship schedules, so if you are travelling by cruise ship, please call or email us to check availability.

The day begins with a 20 minute boat ride to beautiful Orcas Cove. Our friendly guides will give a safety briefing before we depart by kayak for Icehouse Cove. The area is accessible only by boat and changes remarkably with the tide. Kayaks are the ideal vessels for exploring the shallow coves and rock gardens. The 20 foot tide zone is home to an amazing variety of creatures. Brilliantly colored starfish, sun stars and even sea cucumbers are visible beneath the kayaks in the crystal clear water. Kingfishers and Great Blue Herons feed along the shore and bald eagles nest in the trees. Although there are no guarantees on seeing whales or wildlife we can see pods of Humpbacks and Orcas and sometimes even black bears.

Kayakers in IceHouse Cove

A Rugged Alaskan Hike
The trail at Icehouse Cove is wild and rugged and visitors will quickly see why we outfit them in Ketchikan's famous Xtra Tuff "Alaskan Sneakers." Learn about the unique ecosystem of the Tongass National Forest and the creatures that inhabit the area as you ascend through the old growth forest. We do not have to cover a set distance on our hike rather we adapt the pace to suit the group and weather.

Lunch

Relax on the beach or at the lake with lunch and watch the movement of the tide. Our lunches include sandwiches, chips and cookies. We return to the Orcas Cove by kayak to board the boat for town.

Who Should Take the Day Trip?
The day trip is designed for independent travellers and independent spirits. If you are travelling by cruise ship, you must have a minimum of 8 hours in port to take this trip. We recommend this trip for people who are physically fit and adventurous. Our guides need at least one member of the group to be able to help move the 90lb kayaks above the tide zone. There is no sugar coating here: this is rugged terrain and real sea kayaking. Minimum age to participate is ten years old and young participants should be aware that the hiking and kayaking can be challenging. All equipment is provided including dry bags for your cameras. Raingear is also provided and we ask that you dress in warm, comfortable layers. We outfit participants with outerwear and rubber boots. Southeast Sea Kayaks only uses lightweight fiberglass kayaks, not plastic, for your comfort and enjoyment.

Passing a sea star, near Icehouse COve

Trip Details & How to Book
Day trips run Mondays and Fridays 9:30am - 4pm and Wednesdays 8:30am - 3pm. Day trip participants can meet our van at the Rain Gauge at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau or to meet us at our store. To book the day trip, please call or email us to check on the availability for your date.

USFS Logo
Under special permit from the USFS. Southeast Sea Kayaks is an equal opportunity service provider.