Almost all of our trips are designed to accommodate beginners. Our experienced guides give a thorough pre-trip orientation before every trip. This includes kayaking instruction and paddling techniques, a safety overview, site-specific information, and helpful tips. Remember, the goal of our trips is to really get a sense of the spirit of the land and water. To do this we find it is much better to move a bit more slowly and deliberately rather than try and “bag” as many miles as possible.

Spirit Walker is a guide-owned and operated company that has been leading trips throughout Southeast Alaska for over 35 years. We were the first outfitter to develop many of the trips that we offer — including day and overnight trips to Point Adolphus. Our local knowledge and guiding experience there and elsewhere means you will experience the best that those areas have to offer. Our long history in the region has led to a deep commitment to preserving these ecosystems — our approach emphasizes wilderness stewardship and minimum impact techniques.

Spirit Walker has guided families with children as young as three years old, and parents as old as 96! We welcome the opportunity to introduce children (old and young) to some of the mysteries of Southeast Alaska. We routinely create custom / private trips for families with younger children.

Spirit Walker provides nearly everything that you will need for your trip. This includes all kayaking and camping gear, food, raingear, rubber boots, and dry bags. You will need to bring the appropriate clothing, and a few personal items we recommend in our packing list.

We are often asked this question. There is no simple answer. But here are a few considerations which might help you decide:

• April and May – Commonly known for crystal clear, sparkling, sunny days with cool nights. Life is “returning” now. This is our own personal favorite time to be out.
• May and June – Driest months, statistically speaking. This is the best time for wildflowers, snow-covered hills, and awakening wildlife.
• July and August – Warmest months. Berries are ripening, and salmon are running. This is the most popular time to come.
• August and September – Shorter days, so this is the best time to see northern lights and bi-luminescence
• September and October – Increasingly shorter days and rainfall, but offer more opportunity for wilderness solitude.

Depending on the trip and the time of year, there is a good chance of seeing bears along the shore. Most of our bear sightings occur while we are paddling.  In camp we practice safe bear camping and have never had an incident with a bear.