Healy: Alaska Backcountry Treasure Hunt & Camp Meal Tour

Summary

Family-friendly ATV treasure hunt with campfire meal in Alaska’s wilds

You’ll set out from Healy on an off-road treasure hunt with a local guide, hunting for hidden clues among quartz rocks and old mining paths. Alongside your group, you’ll swap geocache treasures and learn quirky Alaskan history before sharing a hearty backcountry meal in a woodland pavilion. Expect laughter, muddy boots, and moments that stick with you longer than any souvenir.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of gravel under the Polaris Ranger’s tires — not that I’d ever driven one before, but our guide, Jen, made it feel like we were just out for a weirdly bumpy Sunday drive. She handed us a little map and winked, “Don’t trust the moose.” I laughed, but honestly? The way the wind smelled like pine and river mud, it felt like anything could jump out. We started our treasure hunt right outside Healy, bundled up against the chill (even in June), bouncing along old mining tracks that looked almost swallowed by moss and wildflowers.

I kept thinking we’d get lost — or at least lose the plot — but Jen had this way of letting us figure things out while quietly steering us back when we wandered off (which happened more than once). My nephew found the first quartz rock and did a victory dance that scared off a raven. At one point we stopped by Dry Creek River Bed; you could hear nothing but water trickling somewhere nearby and someone’s nervous laughter (mine). Searching for clues wasn’t just about finding stuff — it was about noticing things: how cold the rocks felt, how bright the lichen glowed when the sun broke through. We swapped little geocache trinkets with another family who’d gotten there first; their kid traded me a tiny plastic bear for my keychain from home.

The “treasure” turned out to be this rustic pavilion tucked into the woods where smoke from the fire drifted up through gaps in the roof. Breakfast was biscuits and gravy so peppery I actually coughed (no shame), plus reindeer sausage that tasted richer than I expected. Jen poured coffee into battered mugs and told us stories about miners who used to walk these same trails — she said some still do when nobody’s looking. It felt less like a tour and more like stumbling into someone else’s tradition. On the drive back to Healy, I realized my boots were caked in mud and my head was full of new names for plants I’ll probably forget by next week. But I still think about that quiet moment by Dry Creek sometimes — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Backcountry treasure hunt and dining

• Transport from Healy hotel to Black Diamond Resort
• Safety briefing and board Polaris Ranger
• Explore trails searching for clues and rocks
• Visit rustic pavilion for camp-style meal
• Learn about local history, flora, and fauna
• Enjoy hearty meal with drinks
• Return to hotel with drop-off

Top questions

How long is the Black Diamond Treasure Hunt tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included in Healy?

Yes, complimentary transport from your Healy hotel is available if selected during booking.

What kind of vehicle do we ride on this tour?

You’ll ride aboard a Polaris Ranger—an open-air off-road vehicle similar to an ATV but with seat belts and cover.

Are meals included during the treasure hunt excursion?

Yes, all tours include a traditional camp-style meal—breakfast for morning tours or ribs, steak, chicken, or salmon for later tours.

Is this day trip suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly—children must be accompanied by an adult and infant seats are available upon request.

Do I need prior ATV experience?

No experience is necessary; guides provide safety instructions before departure.

What should I wear or bring?

Dress for variable weather—layers are best—and expect your shoes to get muddy!

Can vegetarians be accommodated?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Healy (if chosen), all snacks and meals as described—like hearty breakfast or lunch at a woodland pavilion—a professional local guide throughout your treasure hunt adventure, plus all equipment needed for exploring Alaska’s backcountry trails together.