Exploring Icy Strait Point: A Wild Ride Through Alaska’s Hidden Gem

If you’re looking for raw, untouched Alaskan beauty, Icy Strait Point is one of those rare cruise ports that delivers. Tucked away in the small town of Hoonah, this stop may be tiny, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in epic scenery, wildlife, and pure, rugged adventure. We only had a few hours here, but from backcountry jeeping to soaring gondola rides, it was a day I’ll never forget.

Back Country Jeep Adventure: Off the Grid and Into the Wild

There weren’t many excursions to choose from in Icy Strait Point, which made the decision easy. My mom, grandma, and I booked the Back Country Jeep Adventure, and I volunteered to drive so they could sit back, relax, and take in the views. (And, let’s be honest, I wasn’t passing up the chance to get behind the wheel on a wild Alaskan trail.)

Each Jeep is linked to the guide’s vehicle via radio, so even as you're off-roading on your own, you’re part of a fully guided experience. The narration was both fun and informative, weaving in stories of local culture, native wildlife, and the deep-rooted history of Chichagof Island.

We bounced along old logging roads, keeping our eyes peeled for bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and even coastal brown bears (no sightings this time, but the thrill was real). There were scenic stops to switch drivers and soak in the mountain views, and I couldn’t get over how vast and peaceful it all felt, like we were in a completely untouched world.

The tour lasted about 2.5 hours, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Sky-High Views: Gondolas and a Glimpse of Culture

After the off-roading adventure, we rode the red gondolas up to Sky Peak, and let me tell you, the views were stunning. Mountains, dense forests, and the sparkling Alaskan coast stretched as far as the eye could see. It was one of those "take a deep breath and just be" kind of moments.

We also caught a Tribal Performance at the Heritage Center, a short but powerful showcase of local Indigenous culture. Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time to explore after that since we had to get back to the ship, but the experience was absolutely worth it, even just for those peaceful, panoramic views.

For the thrill-seekers out there, Icy Strait Point is also home to the Sky Glider ZipRider, one of the longest ziplines in the world. You soar down from the top of the mountain, talk about a bucket list-worthy view.

Quick Bites at The Cookhouse

Before heading back to the ship, we made a quick stop at The Cookhouse Restaurant, located right on the waterfront. It’s cozy, not overly crowded, and the views from the deck? Chef’s kiss.

We weren’t super hungry, so we ordered a personal cheese pizza and side of fries to share (both of which were surprisingly delicious), and my mom and I each got a shot to toast to our wild Alaskan adventure. It was the perfect low-key way to wind down before boarding.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Visit, But Not a Must-Repeat

While Icy Strait Point was a fun and unique stop filled with unforgettable views and peaceful moments, I won’t be rushing back. There are so many other places in Alaska that I truly fell in love with and would prioritize visiting again. That said, if you’ve never been, it’s absolutely worth experiencing at least once. The off-road adventure, the natural beauty, and the cultural touches make for a well-rounded and memorable Alaskan day.