Explore a land of breathtaking beauty, rich in history and native culture while helping to improve the environment so others may enjoy it. Assist in rebuilding trails while surrounded by towering Sitka spruce, bald eagles, and moose, earning up to 40 hours of community service. Hike through an amazing mountain wilderness. Fly by bush plane to a secluded outpost to learn about marine mammals, then, sea kayak among humpback and orca whales, seals, sea lions, and otters. Learn about native Tlingit and Russian history in Haines and Juneau, then raft an amazing whitewater river.
Explore Historic Juneau
After being met by our trip leaders in Juneau, we’ll acclimatize near the base of Mendenhall glacier. Juneau is a picturesque and bustling little town rich in history and is Nestled between steep forested mountains covered with glaciers to the east and Gastineau channel to the west. We'll begin our orientation at the impressive Alaska State Museum where we'll orient ourselves for our amazing three-week adventure then check out the Alaska State Museum, the Salmon fish hatchery, and the nearby historic Russian Orthodox.Hike While Rebuilding Alaska's Trails
A scenic ferry trip up Alaska's Marine Highway takes us to the historic town of Haines where we'll work on the scenic trails of Mount Ripinski while hiking in a spectacular mountain setting. The views from this peak are so beautiful they are almost surreal. We'll also volunteer with the Alaska State Parks in improving and maintaining public lands for the enjoyment of others. Each day we'll roll up our sleeves for some hard and satisfying work.Discover Alaska's Cultural Heritage
While visiting Haines, we'll learn about its colorful Russian, military, and Native history. We'll also roll up our sleeves and help the locals with many interesting and needed community projects. In the evenings we'll visit the Tlingit Indians to learn about their wonderful and interesting culture. We'lll visit with the tribal elders and enjoy a traditional salmon bake.Raft the Blanchard River
Just a few miles north of Haines, the Blanchard River tumbles out of the dramatic and beautiful Tatshenshini Mountains. Equipped with wetsuits and life jackets, we'll enjoy an exhilarating day of impressive and exciting whitewater.Experience Alaska by Bush Plane
Visiting southeast Alaska wouldn't be complete without an opportunity to travel by bush plane, an essential mode of transportation here. A scenic bush flight out to remote Gustavus and back is the only way we can reach the summer home of congregating humpback whales.Sea Kayak Among Humpback Whales
From our remote campsites on Chichagof Island, we'll learn about sea mammals, then sea kayak each day in the finest habitat in the Northern Hemisphere for viewing humpback whales. Observing these gentle creatures from a sea kayak, surrounded by snowcapped Alaskan peaks is an experience of a lifetime! We'll also see plenty of seals, sea lions, otters, and possibly orca whales. Our adventure concludes with our bush flight back to Juneau and our traditional Alaskan Sourdough banquet.
All major components of this trip have been offered by us over the past 36 years.
Teachers/Group Leaders: This adventure or a variation of it can be offered as a private/custom trip with your own departure dates. Please contact our group desk at 800-533-2281.
