Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo

Exploring the Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo in Juneau

Our review focuses on the Trails and Ale Tour combined with the Tram experience—a package that promises an authentic taste of Juneau’s natural beauty, indigenous culture, and vibrant craft beer scene. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and thoughtful design suggest it offers a well-rounded, engaging outing that appeals to curious travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and local flavor.

One of the first things we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines outdoor exploration with a cultural narrative. The guided hike along the Totem Loop of Mt. Roberts offers incredible views and fascinating insights into Alaska Native traditions and the region’s flora and fauna. The tour’s second highlight, the craft beer tasting and the wooden nickel reward, adds a laid-back, social element that’s perfect for winding down after a scenic walk.

A potential consideration is the tour’s moderate physical activity level—it involves a hike, so not ideal if mobility is a concern. Also, booking well in advance seems to be necessary, with an average reservation window of about 76 days, so planning ahead is recommended.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who love nature, culture, and good local beer, and who want a well-organized, small-group experience that balances education with fun.

Key Points

• Combines outdoor hiking with cultural storytelling about Alaska Native traditions.
• Includes scenic views from the Mt. Roberts Tram and observation decks.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their humor and depth of knowledge.
• Offers local craft beer tastings with a wooden nickel reward—adding a relaxed social element.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention.
• Requires moderate physical activity—suitable for those comfortable with walking/hiking.

An In-Depth Look at the Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo

Starting Point and Overall Structure

This tour begins at 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, and offers a roughly 1-2 hour experience, making it a manageable half-day activity. The price point of $125 per person provides access to both the scenic tram ride and a guided trail hike, plus a beer-tasting component. When you consider the included tram ticket, expert guides, and the unique cultural insights, many travelers find this to be good value—especially compared to standalone activities.

The Goldbelt Tram Ride: Scenic Elevation and Views

The adventure kicks off with the Goldbelt Tram, ascending Mt. Roberts. This tram is a favorite among visitors for its breathtaking vistas. The ride itself is smooth and offers a quick, comfortable way to reach higher elevations without the sweat of a strenuous climb. Once at the top, explorers can enjoy observation decks that provide panoramic views of Juneau, the surrounding mountains, and distant glaciers.

Multiple reviews highlight how beautiful and accessible the tram is. One reviewer notes, “The Tram is amazing! Beautiful views and trails,” and appreciates the efficiency and front-of-the-line access that makes the trip more enjoyable—no long waits.

The Trail Hike: Nature and Culture Collide

The guided hike along the Totem Loop is the core of this experience. It’s designed to be environmentally friendly and historically informative, with guides sharing stories about the local tribes, clan totems, and the natural environment. The hikes are described as “a breeze” by previous participants, which means the terrain is accessible for most moderate fitness levels, but still offers enough activity to be satisfying.

As one reviewer states, “Greg our guide did an excellent job. The hike was a breeze and very environmentally and historically informative.” This suggests guides are well-versed not just in natural history but also in the cultural stories that make the landscape come alive. The focus on Alaska Native culture, including totem poles, oral traditions, and ecological knowledge, enriches the hike far beyond a typical nature walk.

Wildlife and Flora Focus

Part of the tour’s appeal lies in the opportunity to observe Alaskan flora and fauna. While specific wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, guides are praised for their knowledge about local plants and trees, giving participants a deeper understanding of the land. The tour emphasizes the interconnection of nature and indigenous culture, making it a meaningful experience rather than just a physical activity.

The Beer and Wooden Nickel Reward

After the hike, the tour concludes with a visit to the Timberline Bar and Grill or Tr’Ale House Beer Garden. Here, your wooden nickel—valued at up to $10—can be redeemed for any drink. This thoughtful inclusion encourages relaxation and socializing, and the reviews praise the quality of the beer and the friendly atmosphere. For children, the wooden nickel can be used for non-alcoholic drinks at the Timberline restaurant, making it a family-friendly feature.

Reviewers commonly mention how the beer was exactly what they needed after the hike, with one noting, “The beer after the tour was exactly what we needed to cap off the excursion.” This casual, social component balances the more structured outdoor activity with a laid-back finish.

Cultural and Historical Insights

One of the standout features, according to many reviews, is the guide’s storytelling. They share personal stories about local tribes, clans, and the significance of totem poles. For instance, “Greg was an amazing guide. He told us so many stories about different tribes and clans, and about his family and the totems,” writes one reviewer. This kind of personal touch elevates the experience from a simple hike to a meaningful cultural exchange.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour averages bookings 76 days ahead. This ensures availability and allows for better planning.
• The moderate physical activity involved makes it suitable for most but not ideal for those with mobility challenges.
• Weather can affect the experience; the tour offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, so keep an eye on forecasts.
• The small group size of up to 12 travelers means a more personalized experience, but also means early reservations are wise during peak times.

What the Reviews Say

Authentic traveler feedback offers valuable insight:

• “Greg our guide did an excellent job. The hike was a breeze and very environmentally and historically informative,” highlights the quality of guiding.
• “Informative walk/hike with an excellent view. Greg was full of knowledge and had a great sense of humor,” shows the blend of education and fun.
• “The Tram is amazing! Beautiful views and trails… lunch and beer at the top restaurant was amazing,” demonstrates how the whole experience is well-rounded.
• “The tour is a worthwhile value—great views, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed atmosphere,” captures the overall sentiment.

Some reviewers also mention the VIP access that skips long lines, and appreciate the personalized stories that bring the local culture to life.

The Value and Who It’s Perfect For

At $125, this experience offers a compelling package: scenic tram rides, a guided nature and cultural walk, and local craft beer. The small group size and knowledgeable guides add to the overall value, making it feel more intimate and customized than larger bus tours.

This tour is ideal for adventurous souls, culture enthusiasts, and those looking for a balanced mix of outdoor activity and local flavor. Families with children can also enjoy the non-alcoholic options, making it a versatile outing.

It’s especially fitting for visitors who want an active, educational experience that provides insight into both the land and its people—without the rush of larger, more commercialized tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided hike along the Totem Loop, a ride on the Goldbelt Tram, and a wooden nickel voucher for drinks at local bars.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 1 to 2 hours, including the tram ride, hike, and beverage time.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, there’s a moderate hike, but previous guests say it’s a “breeze” and suitable for most physically fit travelers.

Can kids participate?
Yes, kids can join and use their wooden nickel for non-alcoholic drinks at the Timberline restaurant.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking in advance—around 2-3 months ahead—is recommended due to popularity and limited group size.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour will be canceled with a full refund if weather conditions are unfavorable.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews praise guides for their storytelling, humor, and depth of knowledge about local culture and environment.

Can I combine this with other Juneau activities?
Yes, it pairs well with other outdoor or cultural activities, but check timing and availability ahead of your trip.

Final Thoughts

The Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo in Juneau offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and local craft beer. It’s clear from the reviews that the guides’ expertise, the breathtaking vistas, and the unique cultural insights make it a highlight for many travelers.

While it involves some moderate activity, the small group size and thoughtful design mean you’ll feel like you’re exploring with friends who know the land inside and out. The included beer and the relaxed atmosphere at the end make it a perfect way to unwind after a scenic adventure.

This tour delivers genuine value for those who seek an authentic, educational, and fun slice of Juneau’s natural and cultural landscape. Whether you’re interested in indigenous traditions, wildlife, or simply soaking up stunning views while enjoying a local brew, this outing has something to offer.

In the end, the Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo is best suited for curious explorers who want a taste of everything: nature, culture, and craft beer—an experience that’s both enriching and enjoyable.