Our review of the Juneau: Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway offers a vivid look at this engaging tour designed to blend outdoor adventure with wildlife and scenic photography. This three-hour excursion, offered by iRide Alaska, promises a chance to escape the crowds and see some of the most spectacular sights around Juneau — all while zipping along on a Segway. Whether you’re a first-time Segway rider or an avid photographer, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Alaska’s coastal wilderness.
What we love about this experience are the stunning panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and the opportunity to see diverse wildlife like bald eagles and maybe even humpback whales. The focus on natural beauty combined with the fun of riding a Segway makes for an active, engaging outing. One potential consideration is that it involves some walking on uneven gravel trails and is not suited for those with mobility issues or balance concerns. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of light adventure, photography, and nature — and who are comfortable on a Segway.
- Key Points
- Discovering Juneau’s Coastal and Rainforest Wonders on a Segway
- What’s Included and Practical Details
- The Value of This Tour
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
- FAQs
- More Tour Reviews in Juneau Alaska
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Juneau Alaska we have recnetly reviewed
Key Points
- Scenic diversity: From glaciers to rainforests, the tour showcases Alaska’s varied landscapes.
- Wildlife viewing: Spot eagles, whales, and other native animals, making each stop an exciting chance for photos.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.
- Active but manageable: Short walks and riding on gravel trails mean a bit of effort, but no strenuous hiking.
- Small groups: Limited to ten, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
- Rain or shine: The tour takes place regardless of weather, so pack rain gear if needed.
Discovering Juneau’s Coastal and Rainforest Wonders on a Segway
Our journey begins in front of the Mt Roberts Tramway, where your guide will meet you and provide a quick safety briefing. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a Segway before — most people master the controls after a brief practice session, and the guides are attentive to your comfort and safety. After that, it’s time to hop on your personal Segway and start an adventure that feels both exciting and surprisingly peaceful.
The first highlight is a close-up view of the Mendenhall Glacier, a true Alaskan icon. From the road, we cruise past scenic vistas of this immense sheet of blue ice, and it’s easy to appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural wonder. The guides share insights about its formation and ongoing changes, adding context to the stunning visuals. Several stops along the coast allow for photos of the glacier, Lynn Canal, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
What makes riding a Segway in this setting so special is how it allows us to move smoothly and quietly along shoreline paths, almost as if we’re part of the landscape. This means you can truly listen for eagle calls, watch waves lap against rocky shores, and possibly spot a humpback breaching in the distance. It’s a different way to interact with nature compared to traditional sightseeing, giving you an intimate connection to your surroundings.
Next, your guide will lead you on a short walk through the ancient old-growth forest of Tongas National Forest, the largest national forest in the US. The seven-minute gravel trail to a secluded beach offers a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy some locally sourced snacks, and take in the forest’s towering trees and lush greenery. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for a quick break and some memorable photos.
Continuing along the coastline, we stop at multiple points for panoramic views and wildlife spotting. The guides do a good job of teaching about the native flora and fauna, helping you identify eagles and other birdlife. Several travelers have noted how knowledgeable guides enhance the tour’s value, sharing stories and answering questions with enthusiasm.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Juneau Alaska.
What’s Included and Practical Details
Your ticket includes helmets, rain ponchos if needed, water, and a locally sourced snack, making it a well-rounded experience. The tour lasts about three hours, including transportation from the cruise ship docks, a brief training session, and time spent exploring. The small group size — limited to 10 participants — ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
Meeting logistics are straightforward: the guide meets you in front of the Mt Roberts Tramway under the cable cars. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes is recommended. Note that it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, vertigo, or weight over 250 pounds.
The Value of This Tour
Considering the price, you’re paying for a combination of scenic variety, wildlife sightings, expert guidance, and the fun of riding a Segway in a pristine setting. Many reviews highlight the wonderful views and enthusiastic guides as the tour’s core strengths. One traveler from the UK raved about seeing 40 bald eagles, turning this from a simple sightseeing trip into a wildlife spectacle.
Some travelers found the experience less compelling, especially if they were expecting more adventurous rides or more dramatic waterfalls, as one review pointed out. However, most agree that the combination of natural scenery and manageable activity makes for a satisfying experience, especially if you’re looking for something different than standard boat or bus tours.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those who want an active, photograph-friendly way to explore Juneau’s coast and rainforest. It suits travelers aged 12 to 78 who are comfortable on a Segway and able to stand for about 30 minutes at a time. It’s ideal if you’re interested in wildlife (like eagles and whales), stunning glacier views, and forest scenery, but not if you prefer strenuous hiking or have mobility limitations.
The tour is especially appealing to curious travelers wanting a personalized glimpse of Alaska’s wilderness without the hassle of long hikes or crowded group tours. Families with older children, photography enthusiasts, and those looking for an outdoor adventure with a touch of fun will find this experience worthwhile.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For travelers eager to combine scenic beauty with light adventure, this Segway rainforest safari offers a unique perspective. The guides’ local knowledge and the opportunity to see wildlife like eagles and possibly whales add layers of value. You’ll enjoy panoramic glacier views, walk through lush forests, and glide along the shoreline — all in a compact, three-hour package.
While it’s not suited for everyone — especially those with mobility issues or a fear of riding Segways — it’s an excellent choice for those looking to see Juneau’s coastal landscapes in a fun, engaging way. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal experience that’s both informative and relaxed.
If you’re seeking an authentic, active encounter with Alaska’s natural environment — and don’t mind a little rain or gravel underfoot — this tour offers great value and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a memorable way to see some of the best sights around Juneau, blending adventure, wildlife, and stunning scenery into one neat package.
Juneau: Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway
“Great guides, wonderful views, and some decent wildlife seen too – notably about 40 bald eagles!!”
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for ages 12 and up. Younger children are not permitted, likely due to safety considerations.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Rain gear is provided if needed, so check the weather forecast.
What if I’ve never ridden a Segway before?
No problem. The guides provide a brief training session, and most people get comfortable quickly. They are attentive to safety and comfort.
Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, many travelers report sightings of eagles and whales. The guides share insights about local wildlife and the best spots for viewing.
Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions. It’s wise to bring rain gear just in case.
What’s included in the price?
Helmets, rain ponchos if necessary, water, and a locally sourced snack.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately three hours, including transportation, instruction, and exploration.
Is transportation from the cruise ship included?
Yes, the tour begins with a brief 6-mile transfer from the cruise dock to the starting point.
What’s the group size?
Limited to ten participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.
Embarking on this rainforest Segway safari in Juneau offers a delightful way to experience Alaska’s beauty, wildlife, and landscapes in a relaxed, active setting. Whether you’re eager for glacier views, eager to photograph eagles, or just want to try riding a Segway in stunning surroundings, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Alaska’s natural wonders.
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