Ketchikan: Electric Bike & Rainforest Hike with Salmon Snack

Summary

Cycle the quiet road then walk deep in Tongass forest beside salmon streams

You’ll ride electric bikes along Ketchikan’s quiet coast before hiking into the lush Tongass rainforest with a local guide. Expect salmon streams, waterfalls, maybe wildlife if you’re lucky — plus smoked salmon snacks back at the marina. You’ll feel both small and wide awake under all that green.

What’s the experience like?

We started right at the marina in Ketchikan, helmets a bit crooked and rain jackets zipped up (they handed those out — trust me, you’ll want one). The e-bikes felt weirdly easy after a minute or two; I was expecting more noise but they’re almost silent, just tire hum and some seabirds overhead. Our guide, Jen, pointed out the “road to nowhere” sign — it really does just stop at the edge of the Tongass National Forest. I kept thinking about how green everything looked, like someone turned up the color dial.

The hike started at this mossy trailhead where you could smell wet earth and something sharp — maybe cedar? We walked along a stream that was full of salmon fighting upstream (I didn’t expect them to be so loud). Jen told us about how bears sometimes show up here but we only saw their prints. At one point we stopped by a waterfall that drowned out any conversation, just white noise and mist on your face. I tried to say “Tongass” like she did but probably butchered it — she laughed anyway.

We got down to a little beach where the forest opened up for a second. There were tide pools with tiny crabs scuttling around, and someone thought they saw a seal out past the kelp. I still think about that view — ocean all gray and silver under low clouds. On the way back, legs a bit tired but not wrecked thanks to the e-bikes, Jen handed out smoked salmon and vegan snacks at the marina. It tasted salty and sweet at once, maybe just because I was hungry from riding. Not sure I’ll ever get used to rain sticking in my hair like that, but it kind of fits here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Electric bike ride and rainforest hike

• Travel to trailhead by e-bike
• Enjoy guided rainforest hike
• View waterfall and beach
• Spot wildlife along coast
• Return to marina by e-bike
• Have smoked salmon snacks and beverages

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Ketchikan electric bike tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation is provided from both Downtown Cruise docks and Ward Cove.

How difficult is the rainforest hike in Tongass National Forest?

The hike is on a well-maintained trail and suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.

Are meals or snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, smoked salmon snacks plus vegan options and beverages are included at the end of your tour.

What kind of wildlife might I see on this day trip?

You may spot salmon in streams, black bear tracks, marine mammals like seals or porpoises, and intertidal creatures on the beach.

Does this tour operate in rainy weather?

Yes, tours run rain or shine and excellent rain gear is provided if needed.

How many people are on each electric bike & hike tour?

The group size usually maxes out at 10 people for a small-group experience.

Do I need prior experience riding e-bikes?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions and support throughout.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transport from either cruise dock in Ketchikan, use of an electric assist bicycle with all gear provided (including rain jackets), a guided hike through Tongass National Forest beside active salmon streams and waterfalls, plus smoked salmon snacks with vegan options and drinks when you return to the marina before heading back to town.