Eklutna ATV Adventure

  • 4 hours
  • Single Seat ATV or UTV
  • Gear & Snack Included

May - Oct | 4 hours | from $225 pp

ATV Ride + Gear

Rates:
$225.00 – single-seat ATV
$300.00 – two guest ATV

Hit the trail at Eklutna on our ATV Adventure near Anchorage. Journey into Alaska’s backcountry on a trail built for excitement and stunning views. Beginning at Eklutna Lake, this four-hour tour is surrounded by towering mountains, spruce forest, and glacier-blue water. This 28-mile trip offers plenty of chances to splash through water and ride through the exciting Alaskan terrain. The trail offers opportunities for wildlife and glacier viewing, and is fun for all experience levels.

Note: We do not provide drivers for our tours. You must be at least 18 and licensed to drive a machine (auto/car driver’s license).

These tours are only available on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Your guide leads the way, pointing out waterfalls and wildlife as you power through some of the most scenic terrain near Anchorage. Expect photo stops, a quick snack, and plenty of time to explore the lakeside trail. It is fast, adventurous, and built for anyone who wants a true off-road Alaska experience.

Snowhook Eklutna ATV Group 01

What's included?

This tour includes a guided 4-hour ATV or UTV ride along the Eklutna Lake Trail, all safety gear and helmets, and a light snack during the trip. Your guide provides full instruction before the ride and leads the group throughout the tour.

Tour Details

Meet your guide near Eklutna Lake, about an hour from Anchorage. After a safety briefing and gear check, you will start your engine and head out onto the trail. The route runs about 28 miles along the lake, with solid ground and open views of the Chugach Mountains. The pace is steady, and the ride is comfortable for both new and experienced drivers.

You will stop at scenic spots to take photos, stretch, and enjoy the view. The lake, glacier, and forest create a backdrop that feels straight out of an adventure film. It is the kind of trail that keeps your focus sharp and your adrenaline high from start to finish.

The tour lasts about four hours, including stops. We provide the vehicles, helmets, and safety gear. A light snack is included. Bring water and wear layers for changing weather. This tour runs all year and is open to adults and teens ready to explore Alaska’s wild side.

Tour Dates & Times

Choose an ATV or UTV adventure at the booking page; full-day and half-day tours are available

Departs Daily: 10 am | 3 pm | 6 pm

Available: May – October (dependent on seasonal weather). These tours are only available on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Ages: Suitable for people of all ages.

NOTE: We do not provide drivers for our tours. You must be at least 18 and licensed to drive a machine.

Our UTVs (Side by Sides) do not require prior experience!  But you must have prior ATV riding experience to rent one of our ATVs. Riding an ATV requires coordinated physical input, and you need to use your body to be actively involved with the steering and driving of the ATV for proper operation.  Please also note that the maximum amount of weight an ATV can accommodate is 300 pounds.

Join us for the Eklutna ATV Adventure

Related Adventures

FAQ's

No prior experience is needed. Our guides provide full instruction before the ride, including how to start, steer, and safely handle your ATV or UTV on the trail. The route along Eklutna Lake is well-maintained and beginner-friendly, so first-time riders feel comfortable within minutes. Your guide stays with the group the entire time and helps you navigate any rougher spots. We focus on safety, confidence, and fun, so you can relax and enjoy the views without worrying about skill level.

The Alaska ATV Adventure lasts about four hours from start to finish, including breaks for photos and a snack. You’ll cover roughly 12 miles each way along the Eklutna Lake Trail. The pace is steady, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife while still keeping the ride exciting. Plan for about half a day between meeting your guide, gearing up, and wrapping up the ride. This makes it a great outdoor option for travelers who want adventure near Anchorage without committing to a full-day trip.

Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate an ATV or UTV. Passengers can be as young as 8 years old, as long as they fit safely in the vehicle with a seat belt and helmet. Younger guests typically ride with a parent or guardian in a two-seater UTV. We tailor the pace of the tour to suit all participants, keeping the ride smooth and safe while still offering an authentic off-road Alaska experience for families and small groups.

Yes. Our UTVs and some larger ATVs are equipped for two riders, so you can share the experience with a friend or family member. Riding together is a great option if one person prefers to relax and take photos while the other drives. Just note that the driver must be at least 18 with a valid license. We’ll pair you with the right vehicle type based on your group size and comfort level, so everyone gets the best balance of safety and fun on the trail.

Dress in layers suitable for changing weather conditions. Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes or boots, and a light jacket or rain shell. Gloves and sunglasses are also helpful for comfort and visibility. We recommend avoiding loose scarves or hanging accessories while driving. Helmets and safety gear are provided, but it’s a good idea to bring an extra layer for cooler temperatures near the lake. Expect to get a little dusty or muddy, which is part of the fun of off-road riding in Alaska.

Yes. We provide helmets, goggles, and any additional safety gear needed for the ride. Before departure, your guide will walk you through a quick safety briefing that covers vehicle operation, hand signals, and trail etiquette. We take safety seriously and inspect all equipment before each trip. You only need to bring weather-appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure. Our gear ensures you can focus on the experience and enjoy the ride with confidence.

The Eklutna Lake Trail is considered moderate and is great for beginners and experienced riders alike. The surface is mostly packed gravel with a few muddy or uneven sections that add a touch of challenge without being technical. The route is wide and easy to navigate, with scenic views throughout. Your guide sets a pace that matches the group’s comfort level, ensuring everyone feels safe and has fun. It’s a balanced trail that mixes smooth riding with just enough adventure.

You’ll drive on a mix of packed dirt, gravel, and light mud along the Eklutna Lake Trail. The route is wide, well-maintained, and surrounded by forest, mountains, and glacier-fed water. Most of the terrain is smooth with a few uneven or rocky sections that make the ride more exciting without being difficult. It’s suitable for both first-time and experienced drivers. Depending on the season, you might hit puddles, soft sand, or patches of snow, which add to the adventure. The focus is on scenic, controlled off-road driving with steady momentum and plenty of chances to stop and take in the view.

Eklutna Lake is about an hour’s drive from Anchorage, located just north of Eagle River in Chugach State Park. The meeting point is easy to find with paved access roads and clear directions provided after booking. Many guests make the drive themselves, but private transportation options can be arranged locally if needed. The short drive makes this tour a great half-day adventure for anyone looking to escape the city and get into the Alaskan wilderness without a long trip.

We run tours in most weather conditions, including light rain or snow, since that’s part of the Alaskan experience. However, if weather conditions make the trail unsafe or visibility too low, we will contact you to reschedule or offer a full refund. Our guides monitor forecasts closely and make safety the top priority. Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket, since weather can change quickly in the mountains. Even with clouds or drizzle, the ride and scenery are still incredible.

Yes. A light snack and bottled water are provided during the tour. We make time for a short break along the route so you can eat, hydrate, and take photos. If you prefer specific snacks or dietary options, you’re welcome to bring your own as long as they are easy to pack and carry. Staying fueled helps you keep energy up throughout the ride, especially during longer or cooler days on the trail.

Yes, you can bring your camera or phone to capture photos during the ride. We recommend using a secure strap, pocket, or mount to keep it safe while driving. There are planned stops along the route where you can safely take pictures without rushing. Your guide will also point out the best photo spots along the lake and mountains. Keep in mind that Alaska’s backcountry can be dusty or muddy, so protect your gear if possible.

Transportation from Anchorage is not included in the standard tour price. Most guests drive themselves to the trailhead, which is about an hour north of the city with easy directions provided after booking. If you don’t have a vehicle, there are several local shuttle and rental options available, and we can help with recommendations. The drive is scenic and straightforward, making it a great part of your Alaska adventure day.

Safety is our top priority on every tour. Before departure, your guide provides a full briefing on ATV or UTV controls, braking, and hand signals. All riders wear helmets and safety gear, and vehicles are inspected before each trip. We keep group sizes small for better control and supervision on the trail. The guide leads the ride at a safe, steady pace so everyone can enjoy the experience without taking unnecessary risks.

Yes. The Eklutna ATV Adventure runs year-round, including during winter. In colder months, the trail transforms into a snow-covered route, and our vehicles are equipped to handle icy or packed surfaces safely. Winter rides offer a completely different experience with frozen lakes, crisp air, and quiet mountain scenery. We provide additional cold-weather gear if needed, and the guides adjust the pace to match the trail and conditions. These tours are only available on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

You can book online through the website or by calling directly. Select your preferred time (10 AM or 3 PM), confirm your group size, and complete your payment to secure your spot. Early booking is recommended during summer and fall when availability fills quickly. Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with directions, what to bring, and check-in details.

Additional Information

If you want to preview the terrain before your ride, check out the Eklutna Lakeside Trail on AllTrails. You can view recent photos, trail conditions, and reviews from other visitors who’ve explored the same route. For more details about the area, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources provides maps, regulations, and updates on trail access within Chugach State Park.

If you’re visiting from out of town, the Visit Anchorage website is a great resource for nearby dining, lodging, and activities to pair with your ATV adventure. Whether you plan a quick day trip or a full weekend around Eklutna Lake, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your time exploring Southcentral Alaska.