Ketchikan: Adventure Kart Expedition

The Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition promises an unforgettable off-road experience in the stunning Tongass National Forest. Thrill-seekers can navigate rugged mountain trails aboard powerful Polaris RZR 1000XP Ultimate karts, with chances to spot local wildlife. Though the 3.5-hour tour requires participants to be 18+ with a valid license, the comprehensive safety briefing and protective gear ensure an exciting yet secure adventure. Those seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey through breathtaking Alaskan landscapes won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

Key Points

• The Adventure Kart Expedition is a 3.5-hour tour with a 2.25-hour off-road expedition in Polaris RZR 1000XP Ultimate karts.
• Participants must be 18+ with a valid driver’s license and meet physical requirements to join the expedition.
• The tour includes a 30-minute motor coach ride to the base camp, offering scenic views of the surrounding natural wonders.
• Participants receive comprehensive safety briefing, protective gear, and practice sessions to ensure their preparedness for the off-road adventure.
• The expedition takes riders through rugged mountain trails, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of Behm Canal and Inside Passage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Adventure Kart Expedition

The Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition offers an exhilarating off-road adventure through the scenic Tongass National Forest.

Priced from $287 per person, this 3.5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation and a guided 2.25-hour off-road expedition.

Participants will drive the latest Polaris RZR 1000XP Ultimate karts, with the opportunity to switch positions for the return trip.

Along the way, adventurers can spot local wildlife like eagles, deer, and bears while taking in views of the Behm Canal and Inside Passage.

The tour is suitable for adults 18+ with a valid driver’s license and within the specified height and weight requirements.

Getting to the Adventure Kart Base Camp

Participants meet at the docked downtown Ketchikan location, 10 minutes prior to the tour start time, at Berth 2 outside the Ketchikan Visitors Center.

Participants meet at the docked downtown Ketchikan location, 10 minutes prior to the tour start time, at Berth 2 outside the Ketchikan Visitors Center.

From there, they board a motor coach for the 30-minute drive to the Adventure Kart base camp. The highlights along the way include:

• Scenic views of the Tongass National Forest

• Passing along the Behm Canal

• Catching glimpses of the Inside Passage

For WARD COVE guests, they meet the driver at the WARD COVE location, not downtown, and look for the sign inside the Welcome Center.

Participants must have a valid driver’s license and be able to get in and out of the karts without assistance.

Gearing Up for the Off-Road Adventure

Upon arrival at the Adventure Kart base camp, participants undergo a comprehensive safety briefing and receive all necessary gear.

They’re fitted with helmets, goggles, and gloves to ensure their protection during the off-road adventure.

The Polaris RZR 1000XP Ultimate karts are then thoroughly inspected, with guides demonstrating their features and operation.

Guests have the opportunity to practice maneuvering the karts in a controlled area before embarking on the main expedition.

This hands-on preparation gives riders the confidence and skills needed to navigate the rugged mountain trails through the Tongass National Forest.

Navigating the Mountain Trails

After the initial safety briefing and equipment preparation, guests embark on their off-road adventure through the rugged mountain trails of the Tongass National Forest.

The 2024 Polaris RZR 1000XP Ultimate karts navigate the harvested timber areas with ease, offering:

• Scenic views of the Behm Canal and Inside Passage

• Opportunities to spot local wildlife like eagles, deer, and bears

• The chance to switch driving positions on the return trip

• Thrilling twists and turns through the lush, green landscape

• A truly unique and unforgettable exploration of Ketchikan’s natural wonders.

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Experiencing the Scenic Views

What makes this expedition so captivating are the stunning panoramic views that unfold throughout the journey.

As the off-road karts ascend the mountain trails, guests are treated to breathtaking vistas of the Tongass National Forest, the Behm Canal, and the serene waters of the Inside Passage.

Towering evergreens, rugged cliffs, and glimmering fjords create a picturesque backdrop for the adventure.

Sightings of bald eagles, deer, and even bears add to the natural splendor.

This unique blend of thrilling off-road action and awe-inspiring scenery makes the Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition a truly unforgettable experience.

Potential Wildlife Sightings

Perhaps the most thrilling aspect of the Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition is the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

As you navigate through the Tongass National Forest, keep your eyes peeled for:

• Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead

• Graceful Sitka black-tailed deer foraging in the underbrush

• Powerful brown bears fishing for salmon in the nearby streams

• Curious river otters playfully swimming in the Behm Canal

• Elusive Alaskan moose grazing on the lush vegetation

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the remote and pristine setting of this off-road adventure increases your chances of encountering the local fauna.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

To participate in the Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition, drivers must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.

Participants must also meet height and weight requirements, ranging from 57 inches minimum to 300 pounds maximum.

Participants must meet a height requirement of at least 57 inches and a weight limit of up to 300 pounds.

The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals without a driver’s license.

Guests must be able to get in and out of the karts without assistance.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

These requirements ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the off-road adventure through the scenic Tongass National Forest.

Important Information and Meeting Points

Participants are to bring their driver’s license and a credit card, as well as wear closed-toe shoes and layered clothing for the excursion.

The tour operator strictly prohibits alcohol and drugs during the activity.

The meeting point is at Berth 2, outside the Ketchikan Visitors Center, 10 minutes prior to the tour time.

However, for WARD COVE guests, the meeting point is inside the WARD COVE Welcome Center, where they should look for the designated sign.

Key information:

• Arrive 10 minutes early to the meeting point

• Bring required documents and attire

• No alcohol or drugs allowed

• Different meeting point for WARD COVE guests

Ask Away

Can I Bring a Camera on the Adventure?

You can bring a camera on the adventure. The itinerary allows time to take scenic photos along the mountain trails and of the surrounding Tongass National Forest and Behm Canal during the 2.25-hour guided off-road experience.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Gloves and Helmet?

The tour operator provides all necessary safety gear, including helmets and gloves. Guests don’t need to bring their own. Just be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring your driver’s license and layered clothing for the outdoor adventure.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Karts?

There is a 40-300 lb (136 kg) weight limit for the karts. Guests over 300 lbs are not permitted to participate in the activity.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

There are no listed discounts or package deals for the Adventure Kart Expedition. The price is a flat rate of $287 per person for the 3.5-hour guided off-road adventure tour.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be to Operate the Karts?

No prior experience is needed to operate the karts. The tour provides a safety briefing and all necessary gear. Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid license and meet the height and weight requirements.

Final Words

The Ketchikan Adventure Kart Expedition offers an unforgettable off-road experience through the stunning Tongass National Forest. Participants drive Polaris RZR karts, with opportunities to spot wildlife and take in breathtaking views. The tour includes safety precautions and a practice session, making it accessible to those 18 and older with a valid driver’s license. This adventure promises an adrenaline-filled journey through the rugged Alaskan wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: