Excursion John muir hike tour at Wrangell

Walk in the footsteps of John Muir up the Mount Dewey trail, which is dedicated to one of the most renowned naturalists of the last two centuries. It was on this trail in 1879 that Muir built a fire so large that the people of Wrangell thought it was St. Elmo's Fire, as its light reflected on the clouds above it and created an eerie effect for all to see.

Set out on this short excursion, meet your guides and sign a waiver before making your way to the trailhead. Make a short 20-minute hike to the Mt. Dewey trail, which in part was constructed by local high school students participating in a hands-on educational program.

Enjoy a moderate hike of 1.5 miles (described as challenging for those in normal physical condition but still "doable"), listening to your local guide as they share the colourful history of Wrangell and point out species of flora and fauna along the way. The trail gains over 500 feet of elevation in just over half a mile, but there is time to rest at viewpoints along the way, with the best vantage point at the top, overlooking Wrangell and the scenic Zimovia Strait.

From the top of the trail it is easy to see the fascinating horseshoe shape of Wrangell and witness its bustling activity, all in sight of the awe-inspiring, far-off mountains that were just as beautiful when John Muir was here. As you step, enjoy the peaceful quiet of the trail, with the forest floor dampening sound, making it easier to hear birdsong and detect hidden wildlife rustling amidst the trees.

After some time at the scenic overlook to take in the beauty of the view and forest, it is time to make the return hike down back to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Mount Dewey Trail, guided tour, scenic view of Wrangell and Zimovia Strait

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, approximately 0.9 miles and 462 steps each way, including walking uphill 700 meters to a trailhead with a mix of stairs and fairly even trail. It does include a 300m total elevation gain. Much of the walking is a forest trail with natural surfaces and exposed roots; this trail is not suitable for those with mobility or serious vision issues and cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Guests should be in adequate physical shape; this tour is not recommended for those who are knee replacement candidates. Guests must sign a waiver to participate. The minimum age to participate is 6 years old, provided the child can follow directions. If guides or other guests find children to be disruptive or jeopardize the safety of the group, they and their guardians will be escorted back to the trailhead and still charged for the tour. Guests are recommended to dress in layers and wear sturdy walking shoes; open-toed shoes are not acceptable as trails are muddy. Space on this tour is limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Wildlife sightings likely but not guaranteed. Snack or meal not included on this 1.75-hour tour; we suggest you bring a small snack if needed.