ATV Tour Frequently Asked Questions
Planning an ATV adventure near Anchorage? Below are answers to common questions about our Chugach State Park Backcountry ATV Tour, including what to wear, where the Bird Valley trailhead is located, and what to expect during your ride.
Do I need to make a reservation, or can I just show up?
Reservations are required to guarantee a spot on our ATV tours. Booking in advance allows us to schedule the appropriate number of guides and ensure that our groups remain small, safe, and enjoyable.
Our tours depart from the Bird Valley Trailhead in Bird Creek, located about 30 minutes south of Anchorage. Because guides travel to the trailhead specifically for scheduled tours, there may not be a guide onsite if no reservations are booked for that departure time.
Once your reservation is confirmed, we will send detailed directions and arrival instructions for the trailhead.
What time does my ATV tour depart?
The time listed on your reservation is both your check-in time and your scheduled tour departure time.
After check-in, our guides provide a safety briefing and ATV driver training before heading out on the trail. The exact departure onto the trail can vary slightly depending on weather conditions, group readiness, and safety considerations.
Our goal is always to begin the ride as soon as everyone is safely prepared for the adventure.
Our Chugach State Park Backcountry ATV Tour lasts approximately three hours, including safety training, riding time, and scenic stops along the trail.
Tours depart daily at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM from the Bird Valley Trailhead.
How long is the ATV tour?
Our Chugach State Park Backcountry ATV Tour lasts approximately three hours, including safety training, riding time, and scenic stops along the trail.
Tours depart daily at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM from the Bird Valley Trailhead.
What is the difference between a private tour and a shared tour?
A shared tour means you will ride with a small group of other guests on the same departure. Our guides lead the group along the backcountry trails in Chugach State Park, and everyone receives the same safety training and riding experience.
A private tour reserves the departure exclusively for your group. This allows your guide to tailor the pace of the ride and stops along the trail to your group’s interests while exploring the Bird Valley backcountry.
Both options offer the same scenic ATV experience and are available at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM departures.
Why does a private tour cost more than a shared tour?
Private tours reserve the entire departure exclusively for your group and include a dedicated guide for your party. Because the guide, machines, and departure time are reserved only for your group, the cost of operating the tour is not shared with other guests.
The private tour price is the same whether you have 1 guest or up to 6 guests. Private tours are especially popular with families and groups traveling together, since your group sets the pace of the ride and you do not need to coordinate with other parties on the trail.
If your group has more than 6 guests, please contact us directly. Larger groups require an additional guide, and each additional guest beyond 6 is $306 per person. For safety and guide ratios, the maximum group size is 12 machines.
Private tours with up to 6 guests can be booked online, and larger groups can call so we can confirm guide availability and coordinate your tour.
Do I need previous ATV experience?
No previous ATV experience is required. Before heading onto the trail, all guests receive ATV driver training and a safety briefing from our guides.
Many of our guests are first-time riders. Our guides make sure everyone is comfortable operating the machine before entering the backcountry of Chugach State Park.
Can children join the ATV tour?
Yes. Children are welcome on our ATV tours as passengers. All participants must be at least 8 years old, 48 inches tall, and weigh at least 50 pounds to safely ride on the machines.
Guests who wish to drive their own ATV must be at least 16 years old, at least 60 inches tall, and weigh 100 pounds or more.
Safety always comes first. Our guides may determine that a participant cannot continue on the tour if safety requirements are not met.
Can two people ride on one ATV?
Yes. We offer Can-Am 2-Up machines designed for one driver and one passenger. The driver operates the ATV while the passenger rides comfortably in the seat behind.
These machines are specifically designed for backcountry riding and are a popular option for couples or families.
What is the address for the Bird Valley Trailhead where the ATV tours depart?
The Bird Valley Trailhead, where our ATV tours depart, does not have a physical street address.
To get directions, simply enter “Bird Valley Trailhead” into Google Maps or your GPS and it will guide you directly to the correct location. The trailhead is located at the end of Konikson Road in Bird Creek, Alaska, about 30 minutes south of Anchorage.
Detailed directions will also be included in your booking confirmation.
Is there parking at the Bird Valley Trailhead, including space for RVs?
Yes. There is free parking available at the Bird Valley Trailhead, where our tours depart, and there is generally plenty of space for vehicles to park and turn around.
Guests do occasionally arrive in RVs or larger vehicles, and the parking area can typically accommodate them.
Please note that overnight camping is not permitted, as the trailhead is located within Chugach State Park.
Are there restrooms at the trailhead?
Yes. Chugach State Park provides an outhouse-style restroom at the Bird Valley Trailhead where our tours depart.
Please note that this is a basic park facility, so guests may want to plan accordingly before arriving for their tour.
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for riding in the backcountry. We recommend long pants, closed-toe shoes or boots, and a warm top layer.
Because our tours operate in the coastal rainforest of Chugach State Park, it is best to dress in layers and wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and comfortable.
You may get a little dirty on the trail, so bringing extra socks or a change of shoes for after the ride is a good idea.
What should I wear for the ATV tour?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for riding in the backcountry. We recommend long pants, closed-toe shoes or boots, and a warm top layer.
Because our tours operate in the coastal rainforest of Chugach State Park, it is best to dress in layers and wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and comfortable.
You may get a little dirty on the trail, so bringing extra socks or a change of shoes for after the ride is a good idea.
What should I bring for the ATV tour?
We recommend bringing rain gear, as the Bird Valley area is part of the coastal rainforest. If you do not have your own rain gear, we do have raincoats and rain pants available to borrow.
Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture photos of the beautiful scenery in Chugach State Park.
Do tours still run if it is raining or windy?
Yes. Our ATV tours operate rain or shine. The Bird Valley trail system is located within the northernmost coastal rainforest of Chugach State Park, so wet conditions are a normal part of the experience.
Guests should plan for changing weather and dress appropriately.
What wildlife might we see on the tour?
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but guests sometimes see bald eagles, moose, black bears, and occasionally brown bears in the Bird Valley area.
Our tours travel through the backcountry of Chugach State Park, which is home to a wide variety of Alaska wildlife.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellations made 15 days or more before your scheduled tour will receive a full refund minus a $25 processing fee.
Cancellations made 14 days or less before the scheduled tour are non-refundable. This policy also applies if a guest decides not to participate in the tour after arrival.
Are there any extra fees that I will have to pay on top of the listed price?
The tour price listed on our website includes the guided ATV experience, safety training, helmets, and any necessary riding gear.
During the online booking process, there may be standard booking or processing fees charged by the reservation system. These fees are displayed before completing your reservation.
There are no sales taxes added to the tour price.
Optional gratuities for your guide are always appreciated but are not required.
Still have questions?
If you have additional questions about our Chugach State Park ATV tours, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you plan your Alaska adventure.