Wilderness Cruise on Alaska's Inside Passage: Wrangell to Juneau
Sierra Club Outings Trip | Small Boat
![Photo: Cristina Breen Wilderness Cruise on Alaska's Inside Passage](https://content.sierraclub.org/outings/sites/content.sierraclub.org.outings/files/styles/trip-main/public/trips/main-images/17020_1_Dan%20Leighton.jpg?itok=KDC3uRA9)
Highlights
- View whales, eagles, seals, bears, and other wildlife
- Hike through rainforests and kayak in calm coves
- Watch grizzlies and black bears fishing for salmon
Includes
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Yacht lodging and all meals on the boat
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Chef and marine biologist on the yacht
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All admissions, permits, and fees
Overview
The Trip
Join us as we explore the natural history and tribal heritage of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage from the comfort of a small yacht. We will watch humpback whales, journey deep into fjords, and kayak near a tidewater glacier and amongst icebergs. Unique to cruising in a small vessel is the ability to voyage into coves and small channels to view marine and terrestrial wildlife up close. We will also likely see both brown and black bears feasting on salmon and as well as many coastal birds, including bald eagles, puffins, and oyster catchers. Most of our voyage takes place in the Tongass National Forest—the largest temperate rainforest in North America
The Trip
Join us as we explore the natural history and tribal heritage of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage from the comfort of a small yacht. We will watch humpback whales, journey deep into fjords, and kayak near a tidewater glacier and amongst icebergs. Unique to cruising in a small vessel is the ability to voyage into coves and small channels to view marine and terrestrial wildlife up close. We will also likely see both brown and black bears feasting on salmon and as well as many coastal birds, including bald eagles, puffins, and oyster catchers. Most of our voyage takes place in the Tongass National Forest—the largest temperate rainforest in North America. Each day, we'll go ashore to experience beautiful beaches and forests, tumbling waterfalls, alpine meadows, and wetlands filled with incredible plants. Accompanied by a naturalist, we'll comb the shoreline for intertidal creatures, birds, plants, and marine animals.
Itinerary
On this adventure, we'll voyage between Wrangell, Alaska and Juneau, Alaska. Early in the afternoon of the first day, we will gather together to visit the Wrangell Museum and meet with a Tlingit tribal member at Chief Shakes Island. We'll tour the island and the re-creation of a traditional Tlingit tribal house originally built in 1940 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Later that evening, we'll rejoin for a no-host dinner and trip orientation. Lodging and dinner in Wrangell the first night of the trip are not included in the trip price
On this adventure, we'll voyage between Wrangell, Alaska and Juneau, Alaska. Early in the afternoon of the first day, we will gather together to visit the Wrangell Museum and meet with a Tlingit tribal member at Chief Shakes Island. We'll tour the island and the re-creation of a traditional Tlingit tribal house originally built in 1940 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Later that evening, we'll rejoin for a no-host dinner and trip orientation. Lodging and dinner in Wrangell the first night of the trip are not included in the trip price.
Our cruise will officially begin the following day, where we’ll assemble at the marina, meet a crew member, and board the Snow Goose—a 65-foot steel motor-vessel. We’ll be assigned cabins, have a safety talk, and then get underway. Over the next 10 days we’ll then enjoy a number of highlights.
Every day we’ll have opportunities to leave the boat and go ashore to walk the beaches and trails of the Tongass National Forest. At some stops, there will be an opportunity to explore the coast by sea kayak. Every night we'll stop in a new and secluded anchorage, and depending on our arrival time each day there will often be time before dinner to take a quick shore trip, kayak, or simply read and relax in your favorite deck chair.
We’ll travel through Frederick Sound, Chatham Strait, and Stephens Passage. Home to hundreds of humpback whales, this is considered the best area in southeast Alaska to see these amazing creatures. We will be watching for the whales and, with luck, view some spectacular whale behavior, including the chance to witness the feeding style known as "bubble-net feeding." We’ll also likely observe sea otters, orcas, dolphins, porpoises, terns, and other interesting seabirds. One night will be spent within an island group called The Brothers, part of Admiralty Island National Monument, where we can take our skiff or kayaks to observe sea lions and enjoy a gorgeous hike through a rainforest on the largest of the islands.
We will spend a day among the gigantic icebergs as we cruise up one of the fjords to the foot of a large tidewater glacier—perhaps the Dawes Glacier. These glaciers extend hundreds of feet above the water and are constantly calving icebergs into the water below. Within the fjords it is common to see seals resting on the many ice floes—a relatively safe spot to avoid the threat of marauding Orcas.
Depending on schedule and interest, we may continue to Five Fingers lighthouse for a shore excursion or even go as far as Kake, one of the native villages in this part of Alaska. We may also stop at Petersburg, an interesting small town where we can take a hike through a nearby bog (known in Alaska as a “muskeg”) full of unusual plants that are unique to that environment, or take a hike out of Petersburg itself.
One highlight will be a day-long visit to Anan Creek Bear Observatory (subject to obtaining Forest Service permits), which has the largest run of pink salmon in southeast Alaska. It has long been used by brown bears, black bears, and humans as a fishing and food-gathering site. The U.S. Forest Service maintains a trail to the falls along with a simple observatory and river-level viewing blind on the site of a former Tlingit village. These facilities give us an opportunity to watch the bears up close. Studies have estimated that there are over 50 black bears and about a dozen brown bears in the area. The Forest Service minimizes human impact with a permit system, and we will have one of these few permits to enjoy this special place.
We'll also spend time with a visit to Baranof Warm Springs for a relaxing soak and a chance to hike to a lake above the picturesque falls. During this time, we will also visit Admiralty Island National Monument, which has the highest concentration of brown bears (coastal grizzlies) and nesting bald eagles in North America.
Our flexible daily itinerary will be based on group interests, weather conditions, and, of course, wildlife sightings. Occasionally, changes may occur in the trip—either in advance or during the trip. Please be aware that we will make every attempt to visit all the highlights listed above; however, if weather, equipment, or any other condition causes a change, please be flexible and respect the decision of the leader. The safety of the group is our number one concern. While wildlife in the Alaska islands is abundant, we cannot guarantee that you will see all of the species listed.
Logistics
Getting There
You will need to make your transportation arrangements to arrive in Wrangell and depart from Juneau. Alaska Airlines serves both cities. Talk with your leader prior to making arrangements and plan to arrive in plenty of time to meet with the group early in the afternoon on the first day of the trip. Be aware that bad weather frequently causes flights to be delayed or cancelled. There is much to do and see in Southeast Alaska, and this trip can serve as the centerpiece for an extended trip
Getting There
You will need to make your transportation arrangements to arrive in Wrangell and depart from Juneau. Alaska Airlines serves both cities. Talk with your leader prior to making arrangements and plan to arrive in plenty of time to meet with the group early in the afternoon on the first day of the trip. Be aware that bad weather frequently causes flights to be delayed or cancelled. There is much to do and see in Southeast Alaska, and this trip can serve as the centerpiece for an extended trip.
Accommodations and Food
Our home will be a 65-foot-long Snow Goose. Built in 1973 as a private yacht, this U.S. Coast Guard-certified passenger vessel boasts a motorized inflatable raft (Zodiac) for shore excursions, and several sea kayaks to allow passengers to quietly explore islands and shorelines. The knowledgeable crew consists of a captain, a professional cook, and an experienced deckhand. In addition, there we will have a naturalist on-board with expertise in marine biology, ornithology, and anthropology.
The yacht sleeps 12 passengers in six private, fully heated cabins. As well there are three toilets and two hot showers. The main deck features an airy salon, a library, a galley, and a dining area. Large windows permit unobstructed views out all sides of the vessel and doors are located to provide easy access to the outside decks. The upper bridge deck provides a good vantage point for spotting whales and onshore wildlife. It has comfortable seating for passengers who wish to learn about navigation.
Unique to this cruise is the small vessel, which allows access to shoreline areas inaccessible to larger ships. Even when traveling from one place to another, we’ll be pausing to observe marine life and making one to three stops each day to go ashore and explore.
All meals will be on-board the ship. We will have a social hour before dinner and evening discussions about our experiences that day. Most nights will be spent anchored in quiet coves. The trip price includes all meals, starting with lunch on the second day and ending with breakfast on the last day. A professional cook will prepare all the meals, although volunteer help is always welcome. There will be ample quantities of fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products. Delicious, wholesome meals will be served family- or buffet-style. Complimentary wine is served before and with dinner. Otherwise, guests are responsible for bringing their own alcoholic beverages or soft drinks. Coffee and tea are also provided. Please note that smoking is not permitted aboard the ship.
Trip Difficulty
This will be a leisurely trip. Hikes will be optional and generally easy, covering moderate terrain. There may be some optional longer, more strenuous hikes. Insects should not be a significant problem, although mosquito repellent will be useful on some hikes. You must be able to descend a short ladder to board an inflatable launch (Zodiak boat) for shore excursions. Daytime temperatures usually range from 55-85 degrees. Although we should have days with sunshine, we must also be prepared for rain and gusty winds. The minimum age for the trip is 12 years.
Sierra Club outings in Alaska and Arctic Canada are special experiences in true wilderness, but they also carry an element of risk. Trip locales are often remote and away from the amenities of civilization, including sophisticated medical care and immediate evacuation possibilities. Most of our Alaska trips now carry satellite phones, but even with this technology, communication with the outside world can be difficult and emergency assistance can be days away. Weather in Alaska is unpredictable, and inclement weather can be severe. Among other hazards are cold river and stream crossings, tidal activity, calving glaciers, the psychological effects of remoteness, and the presence of large wild animals. You're in good hands, though, so don't worry; your trip leaders have traveled extensively in the Last Frontier, and they'll provide all the guidance you need.
We use professional outfitters and guides for our trips. The industry practice is that our outfitters require participants to sign a waiver similar to the Sierra Club waiver you will be asked to sign. Your trip leader will provide you with the details for your trip.
Equipment and Clothing
You will receive a detailed clothing and equipment list specific to this trip from the leader after signing up. In general, layered clothing, excellent raingear, and knee-length rubber boots are appropriate. Photographers of all skill levels will have ample opportunities to take pictures of wildlife and scenery. Camera battery charging is available onboard. Those who are particularly interested in bird-watching will have a treat in store, so good binoculars are essential. Although this is not a fishing trip, there may be some limited opportunities to fish. An Alaska fishing license is required and may be purchased before the trip. Please coordinate with the leader.
References
- Muir, John, Travels in Alaska. Discover Alaska through the eyes of the Sierra Club's founder.
- Wiley, Sally, Blue Ice in Motion, The Story of Alaska’s Glaciers. This book provides an illustrated introduction to Alaska's glaciers, with details on how they form, why they move, and the landforms that result.
- McPhee, John, Coming into the Country. Alaska is far more complex geographically, culturally, ecologically, and politically than most Americans appreciate, and few writers are as capable of capturing this complexity as McPhee, who describes his travels through much of the state.
- Reid, William, The Raven Steals the Light. Savor Reid's fascinating stories and legends of the Haida people.
- Mitchner, James A., Alaska. Explore Alaska and its peoples from early times to the present day.
- L'Amour, Louis, Sitka. An early adventurer faces the dangers of Russian-owned Alaska.
- Hedin, Robert and Gary Holthause, Alaska, Reflections on Land and Spirit. This book provides a collection of stories by writers who are native to Alaska or have traveled and lived in Alaska. It includes accounts of explorers, natives, naturalists, and others.
- Lende, Heather, If You Lived Here, I'd Know Your Name: News from Small-Town Alaska. Her offbeat chronicle brings us inside her busy life. We meet her family and a colorful assortment of friends and offbeat neighbors, including aging hippies, salty fishermen, native Tlingit Indians, Mormon spelunkers...as well as the moose, eagles, sea lions, and bears with whom they share this wild and perilous land.
- Jans, Nick, The Grizzly Maze: Timothy Treadwell's Fatal Obsession with Alaskan Bears. This book is about Timothy Treadwell, self-styled "bear whisperer" who dared to live among the grizzlies, seeking to overturn the perception of them as dangerously aggressive animals. When he and his girlfriend were mauled in October 2003, it created a media sensation.
Conservation
Drawing upon the knowledge of our crew and your trip leader, we will discuss several environmental issues for Southeast Alaska. The Tongass National Forest encompasses our planet’s largest remaining temperate rainforest, but human impacts increasingly affect this area. The forest has 19 designated federal wilderness areas, but it is also home to over 75,000 people who depend on the land and sea for their livelihoods. Forest Service management of the Tongass has been a source of controversy for over a century. Despite President Clinton’s Roadless Rule and the Tongass Timber Reform Act, some of the Tongass’ old growth is still slated for clear cutting. We’ll take time during our trip to discuss how mining, road-building, and especially clear-cutting continue to erode the wilderness character of the Tongass and threaten its wildlife and unique plant communities. We’ll also discuss the impacts of global climate change on the region.
Sierra Club National Outings is an equal-opportunity provider and when applicable will operate under permits obtained from U.S. federal land agencies.
Staff
Important Notes
- Carbon Offsets
- Carpooling
- Electronic Billing and Forms
- Electronic Devices
- Equipment
- Essential Eligibility Criteria
- How to Apply for a Trip
- Leader Gratuities
- Medical Issues
- Non-discrimination Statement
- Participant Agreement
- Seller of Travel Disclosure
- Single Supplements
- Terms and Conditions
- Travel Insurance
- Trip Feedback
- Trip Price
- Wilderness Manners