Juneau: Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway

Juneau: Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway — An Authentic Adventure in Alaska

When it comes to exploring Alaska’s rugged beauty, a Segway tour might not be the first thing that pops into your mind — but this Juneau experience offers a fresh, engaging way to see some of the state’s most breathtaking sights. Designed for those who love natural landscapes, wildlife, and a bit of fun on two wheels, this three-hour tour promises a memorable mix of scenery, wildlife, and photos.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines easy-to-learn transportation, small group intimacy, and powerful vistas that are often hidden from traditional bus tours. The opportunity to glide through lush rainforests and along shimmering coastlines is genuinely fun, especially because it’s accessible to most (ages 12-78). That said, it does require a bit of balance and mobility — so if you have mobility issues or vertigo, this might not be your best fit. Perfect for active travelers, nature lovers, and those looking for a different perspective on Juneau’s wilderness.

Good To Know

• Unique transportation: Riding a Segway makes sightseeing more interactive and enjoyable.
• Stunning scenery: Expect views of snow-capped mountains, inland waters, and the Mendenhall Glacier.
• Wildlife spotting: Look out for bald eagles, whales, and other native creatures.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides share details about Alaska’s flora, fauna, and history.
• Small group experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Includes snacks and safety gear: Locally sourced snacks, helmets, and rain ponchos if needed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Juneau tour is all about combining adventure with picture-perfect scenery. Starting right near the cruise ship docks, it kicks off with a brief, friendly training session that helps even first-timers get comfortable with the Segway. We loved how the guides, like Carli and Mallory, made safety a priority but also kept the atmosphere lively and fun — a real plus that many reviews highlight.

Once on the machine, it’s a smooth ride along the coastline, where expansive views of Lynn Canal and the Mendenhall Glacier unfold before you. Unlike bus tours, riding a Segway allows you to get closer to nature, stopping at several scenic points to take photos and listen to guide commentary. Expect to hear eagle calls and the gentle lapping of waves while you glide — an experience that feels both intimate and exhilarating.

What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to step off the Segway and walk a short gravel trail to a secluded beach. There, you can enjoy locally sourced snacks while soaking up the tranquility of a less-traveled part of Alaska’s wilderness. The tour also ventures into the Tongas National Forest, known as the largest National Forest in the US, where lush, temperate rainforests surround you.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point and Setup

Your adventure begins in front of the Mt Roberts Tramway, where a van with the tour company’s logo will meet you. After checking in, you’ll be led to a brief safety and training session — don’t worry if you’ve never used a Segway before. The guides, who are attentive and professional, ensure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

Coastline and Mendenhall Glacier

The first highlight is the imposing Mendenhall Glacier, visible shortly after departure. The guides often point out rare wildlife, with reviewers noting sightings of around 40 bald eagles and occasional whales. The coastline ride offers fantastic opportunities for photos, especially with the mountain backdrop. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and there’s plenty of time to take in the views or ask questions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Secluded Beach and Snacks

After about an hour of riding, you’ll dismount for a seven-minute walk along a gravel trail to a quiet beach. Here, surrounded by nature, you can enjoy locally sourced snacks — a thoughtful touch that elevates the experience. Many reviewers mention how relaxed and special this moment feels, away from the crowds and noise.

Forest Exploration

The tour continues into the Tongas National Forest, where lush greenery and towering trees create a serene setting. Your guides share insights into the native flora and fauna, making the journey educational as well as scenic. Expect panoramic views from various vantage points, perfect for photography.

Wrap-up and Return

After several stops and plenty of photo ops, the tour winds down with a smooth ride back to the starting point. The entire experience lasts around three hours, balancing fun, sightseeing, and learning.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the tour includes helmets, rain ponchos if needed, water, and snacks. For those interested in a personalized, active experience that offers more than just sightseeing, this tour offers good value — especially considering the small group size and the personalized attention.

Duration and Timing

At just three hours, it’s a manageable excursion that fits comfortably into a port day or a morning adventure. The availability varies, so booking in advance is recommended, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later — offering flexibility if your plans change.

Group Size and Guides

Limited to 10 participants, this experience ensures you get plenty of individual attention and guidance. The guides are knowledgeable about the area and passionate about sharing Alaska’s natural wonders, which makes a big difference in how engaging the tour feels.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is designed for ages 12-78 and is not suitable for those with limited mobility, balance issues, or vertigo. You should be comfortable standing for at least 30 minutes and walking a short gravel trail. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, children under 12, or anyone over 250 lbs.

Weather Considerations

Rain or shine, the tour runs as scheduled. Prepare with weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear if necessary. The tour’s flexibility with rain ponchos helps keep the experience comfortable regardless of weather conditions.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One guest from the UK praised the “great guides, wonderful views, and wildlife sightings like 40 bald eagles”, which speaks to how rewarding wildlife spotting can be. Another U.S. traveler, Cynthia, appreciated the “energy and enthusiasm of guides Carli and Mallory”, noting their knowledge and friendliness made the experience special.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One reviewer found the ride less interesting, mentioning that riding on streets and visiting a waterfall felt underwhelming compared to more adventurous or scenic options. This highlights that while the tour excels in scenic and wildlife viewing, some may find it less engaging if they seek a highly adventurous or varied experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who want a mix of fun, scenery, and wildlife in a manageable time frame. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on a Segway or eager to learn, as guides are attentive and safety is prioritized. Nature lovers seeking a more personal encounter with Alaska’s landscapes will find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a good choice for those who prefer an intimate group setting and enjoy photography, as many stops are designed to maximize photo opportunities. However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline, highly adventurous experience or have mobility restrictions, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Juneau Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway offers a rare chance to see Alaska from a different perspective. It’s a fun, relaxed way to explore the coastline, glacier views, and lush forests without the fatigue of long hikes or crowded bus tours. The guided commentary enriches the experience, giving you insight into Alaska’s native environment and wildlife.

The inclusion of snacks, small group size, and the chance to photograph extraordinary scenery make this a well-rounded option for those who want both adventure and comfort. It’s a genuine way to connect with Alaska’s wild side, especially if you love wildlife and scenic vistas.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers seeking a manageable, engaging outdoor activity that balances fun, scenery, and education. Ideal for couples, families, or solo explorers who want to uncover Alaska’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

FAQ

Can I ride a Segway if I’ve never used one before?
Yes, the tour includes a brief training session that helps you get comfortable before heading out. Most beginners find it surprisingly easy and fun.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Rain gear and ponchos are provided if needed, so you don’t have to worry about the weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for ages 12-78. Children under 12 are not allowed, and those with mobility issues or vertigo should consider if they’re comfortable standing and walking for a few minutes.

How long is the walk to the beach?
The walk to the beach is about 7 minutes on gravel. It’s a gentle trail, but good footwear is advised.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, reports mention sightings of bald eagles, whales, and the chance to observe other native species in their natural habitat.

What’s included in the price?
Helmets, rain ponchos, water, and locally sourced snacks are included. The small group size ensures a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during peak times. You can reserve now and choose to pay later if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. It’s designed to be flexible, with rain gear provided.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized, engaging experience.

Can I bring my own camera or smartphone?
Absolutely. The stops along the coastline and at the beach are perfect for taking photos of the stunning scenery.

This Juneau Segway rainforest safari offers an engaging, scenic route to discover Alaska’s coast and forests. Whether you’re new to Segways or a seasoned rider, you’ll find this tour provides a delightful mix of fun, nature, and memorable vistas.

You can check if your dates are available here: