Top Outdoor Adventure Travel Experiences in Southeast Alaska

Boardwalk Lodge is the perfect hub for outdoor adventure travel in Southeast Alaska. With activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife tours, it offers a variety of exciting ways to explore the region's stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top adventure experiences you can enjoy during your stay.

Top 7 Alaskan Outdoor Adventure Travel Experiences


1.    Fishing Excursions
2.    Hiking
3.    Sea Kayaking
4.    Wildlife Tours
5.    Cave Exploration
6.    Aerial Glacier Tours
7.    Camping

These outdoor adventures showcase the best of Southeast Alaska, and are sure to make your stay at Boardwalk Lodge unforgettable. From peaceful hikes to thrilling fishing trips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor Adventure Travel Experiences Near Boardwalk Lodge

Whether you're looking for relaxation or excitement, these activities are the perfect blend of both, giving you the chance to fully immerse yourself in Alaska's great outdoors.

1. Fishing Excursions

Fishing in Alaska is a world-class experience, and Boardwalk Lodge offers some of the best opportunities to cast your line in these waters. Whether you’re after Alaska king salmon, halibut, or trout, the surrounding rivers and coastal areas are teeming with fish.

Guided fishing excursions provide everything you need for a successful trip, including gear and local expertise. And with Alaska’s long fishing season and the lodge’s prime location, anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a rewarding adventure on the water.

For those looking for a full day or overnight trip, Boardwalk Lodge offers customized fishing excursions to suit your preferences. You can choose saltwater fishing for halibut, or stay closer to shore to catch salmon in the nearby rivers. Experienced guides lead each trip, helping you and your fellow trip participants find the best place for fishing while providing tips to make the most of your experience.


2. Hiking

Hiking around Boardwalk Lodge is an incredible way to experience Alaska’s diverse landscapes. The trails wind through lush rainforests, along rugged coastlines, and up into the Price of Wales Island’s mountains, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Hikes range from easy nature walks suitable for beginners to more challenging trails that reward hikers with stunning overlooks of the surrounding wilderness.

A guided day hike is available for the outdoor enthusiast who wants to learn more about the local environment and wildlife. Experienced guides share their knowledge of the area's plants, animals, and unique ecosystems, making the hike both educational and enjoyable.

While rock climbing isn't one of the main outdoor recreation activities on Prince of Wales Island, nearby areas like Ketchikan offer opportunities for adventurous travelers looking for more challenging physical activity.

3. Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking in Alaska offers a unique way to explore the region’s pristine waters and dramatic landscapes. Paddling along the coastline near Boardwalk Lodge gives you a front-row seat to stunning fjords, secluded coves, and lush rainforests. The calm, protected waters make it accessible for both beginners and experienced kayakers alike, and the quiet nature of kayaking allows you to get up close to wildlife without disturbing the natural environment. It’s not uncommon to spot sea otters, seals, and even humpback whales as you glide through the water.

Guided sea kayaking tours are available for those who want to explore safely while learning more about the area. These tours often include stops at hidden beaches or scenic viewpoints, providing a deeper connection to the natural beauty of Alaska. Experienced guides make sure that all participants have the necessary gear and knowledge to enjoy their time on the water, making this an ideal activity for any traveler seeking both adventure and relaxation.

4. Wildlife Tours

Wildlife tours around Boardwalk Lodge offer an incredible chance to witness some of Alaska’s most iconic animals in their natural habitats. One of the highlights of these tours is whale watching, where travelers can watch humpback whales breaching and playing in the waters along the coastline. The calm, protected seas around the lodge are prime spots for seeing these majestic creatures up close, making it an unforgettable experience. In addition to whales, the area is home to an abundance of other marine life, including seals and sea lions.

For those interested in land-based wildlife, bear watching and bald eagle watching are also popular activities. Our guides can direct you to viewing areas where black bears can often be seen fishing for salmon, especially during the spawning season. Meanwhile, the skies above are often dotted with bald eagles, soaring through the air or perching on treetops.


5. Cave Exploration

Cave exploration on Prince of Wales Island is a unique adventure for those looking to discover the hidden underground of Southeast Alaska. The island’s extensive karst system has created fascinating limestone caves, with El Capitan Cave being one of the most well-known. As the largest mapped cave in Alaska, El Capitan offers an experience that takes you through impressive chambers and intricate rock formations, all formed by the slow erosion of limestone over thousands of years. The hike to the cave entrance is very scenic, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and coastline that makes the journey just as exciting as the cave itself.

In addition to El Capitan, there are several smaller caves scattered across the island that can be explored, such as Cavern Lake Cave. These caves provide a glimpse into the island’s geologic history and are ideal for adventurers looking to try something new during their stay.

Guided tours ensure safety while providing information about the formation and significance of these cave systems. Exploring the caves on Prince of Wales Island is a great way to add a bit of mystery and discovery to your outdoor adventure travel experience at Boardwalk Lodge.

6. Aerial Glacier Tours

One of the most breathtaking ways to experience Alaskan landscapes is through an aerial glacier tour. From a seaplane, you’ll take in the stunning views of massive ice fields, rugged mountain peaks, and deep blue crevasses that can only be fully appreciated from above. These tours offer a unique perspective of the region’s glaciers, showing the power and beauty of the frozen wilderness that defines a large portion of Alaska’s terrain.

Aerial glacier tours can be arranged as part of your adventure travel while staying at Boardwalk Lodge. Experienced pilots guide you over some of the most remote and awe-inspiring glaciers in the area, often flying low enough for you to see the intricate details of the ice formations. It’s a must-do experience for any traveler looking to see the vastness of Alaska's wild beauty in a way that simply can't be done from the ground.

7. Camping

Camping in Alaska is a great way to experience the rugged beauty of the region. Many travelers enjoy setting up camp in scenic spots around Prince of Wales Island, where they can explore nearby trails, fish, and take in the views. After days of outdoor adventure, some campers choose to wrap up their trip with a stay at Boardwalk Lodge, where they can relax in comfort and enjoy a little extra luxury before heading home.

Ending your journey at Boardwalk Lodge offers the perfect contrast to the simplicity of camping. After days spent in the wilderness, the lodge provides a comfortable place to unwind, enjoy a hearty meal, and reflect on your adventures in a peaceful setting. It’s the ideal way to relax and recharge after exploring Alaska’s wild landscapes.

What Should I Pack for Outdoor Adventure Travel?

Packing the right gear is key to having a comfortable and successful outdoor adventure trip in Alaska. The weather can be unpredictable, and the activities require some preparation. To make sure you're ready for the conditions and any adventure that comes your way, here’s a list of items to pack:

·     Waterproof jacket and moisture-wicking base layers for changing weather
·     Durable hiking boots for trails and uneven terrain
·     Quick-dry clothing for activities like kayaking or fishing
·     Hat, gloves, and sunglasses to protect against the elements
·     Backpack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers
·     Binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing and capturing scenery
·     Headlamp for low-light conditions
·     First aid kit for minor injuries
·     Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs
·     Sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun
·     Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on hikes and excursions

By packing these items, you'll be prepared for a wide range of activities and weather conditions.

Safety Tips for Outdoor Adventure Travel

When preparing for an Alaskan outdoor adventure, safety should always be a top priority. The region’s remote wilderness, unpredictable weather, and diverse wildlife require a few precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind during your trip:

·     Check the weather: Alaska’s weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before heading out. Pack for rain and cold, even in summer, and avoid long hikes or water activities during storms.
·     Stay on marked trails: Whether you’re hiking or exploring caves, it’s important to stick to designated trails and areas. This not only protects the environment, but also ensures you don’t get lost in unfamiliar terrain.
·     Carry a first aid kit: Always bring a basic first aid kit for any outdoor adventure, and make sure someone in your group knows wilderness first aid basics in case of an emergency.
·     Be bear aware: Bears are common in Alaska. Follow local guidelines for bear safety, including making noise while hiking, storing food properly, and carrying bear spray.
·     Listen to your guides: If you're on a guided trip, such as kayaking or wildlife tours, always follow the instructions of your trip leader to stay safe and respect the environment.
·     Let someone know your plans: If you're heading out on an independent trip or hike, be sure to inform someone of your trip schedule, including your route and expected return time.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Alaska while having a safe adventure.

Ready for Your Alaskan Outdoor Adventure?

With so many incredible outdoor adventure travel experiences waiting for you in Alaska, Boardwalk Lodge is the perfect place to begin your journey. Whether you're eager to hike through lush forests, paddle alongside whales, or explore hidden caves, the lodge offers a comfortable base for all your adventures. After days filled with thrilling activities in the great outdoors, you can unwind in the lodge’s cozy atmosphere, reflecting on your adventure while surrounded by the region's stunning natural beauty.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. Book your stay at Boardwalk Lodge today, and get ready to experience Alaska’s wild, untouched beauty in a way that will leave you planning your next trip before you even leave.





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