hicking in ketchican and skagway

[dusty]

there are so many tours to choose from it is giving me a headache.

after being on the ship for 3 to 4 days i am really planning on doing some hicking in one of these ports. i walk 3 miles a day now on hilly streets, so i am not worried about the physical part of some of the tours listed on the carnival site. has any one done any of these and can recommend them or should i just set out on my own and wander. i really hate the thought of getting lost or being late to get back to the ship. i have no idea if you can even get lost? i will be in these ports in early sept. and will be with carnival spirit ship. please let me know if you done any hicking and what type you did. thanks alot. dusty

[Karen16]

Hiking is excellent everywhere in Alaska. Perhaps consider going on your own in some areas- even hook up with someone on the ship. Easy areas- Skagway- Lower and Upper Dewey Lake- trailhead between 3-4 ave at the train tracks. Juneau- East Loop trail 3 1/2 miles, need to get to Mendenhall glacier, ultimate cheapness , take the city bus, stop is on Franklin St. down and across from the Red Dog. Drop off is 1+ level mile from the visitor center, verify return times as the bus doesn't run that often. Or take the glacier shuttle $10 RT. Trail head is behind the visitor center. In Ketchikan- it is walkable to the Deer Mt trail but far better is the Preserverence trail out by Ward lake which requires a car. Consider renting from Alaska car rental, they used to allow dock drop off, inquire. Also each of the cities have walking tour maps and are a worthwhile activity.

karen16,

thank you so much for the detailed hicking plan. i am going to print the post so i will have it with me when i get there. i am a daily walker and am looking forward to taking in the trails and streets. this is just another reason why this board is the best.
dusty