JUNEAU ATV/UTV FIELD GUIDE
Denali by Side‑by‑Side: Ridge Runs, Tundra Vistas and a Backcountry Dinner
Drive a two‑person Side by Side through the Alaska Range, climb to Black Diamond Peak for Healy Valley views, spot wildlife and finish with a full‑service backcountry meal — ideal for couples and families and requiring no prior experience.
Denali by Side‑by‑Side: Ridge Runs, Tundra Vistas and a Backcountry Dinner.
This is a raw, mobile way into Alaska’s high country: after a short safety briefing you mount a two‑person Side by Side and follow guides up foothills, across tundra and along stream cuts toward the Alaska Range. The tour threads to high viewpoints such as Black Diamond Peak and through the Dry Creek river bed, with multiple scenic stops and a full‑service backcountry meal at the end.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Black Diamond Peak and Healy Valley Views
The route climbs to high vantage points where the Alaska Range opens into broad Healy Valley panoramas — a repeated photo opportunity on the itinerary.
A Full‑Service Backcountry Dinner (and More)
Every tour includes a full‑service backcountry meal; operators list rotating menus and provide examples of hearty options for breakfast and lunch/dinner service.
Side by Side Driving Across Tundra and Streams
You drive two‑person Side by Side machines along rough roads, across valleys and stream crossings — a tour that can accommodate novices yet is also described as geared to more experienced ATV riders.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The flow is direct: a safety briefing and equipment fitting precede a guided run through foothills, valleys and tundra at moderate speeds. Guides lead the group along designated tracks of the Alaska Range, pausing at scenic overlooks and animal‑watching spots before descending to riverbeds and a backcountry meal site.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress for Alaska weather; bring weather‑appropriate clothing. All drivers must bring a valid ID. Tips for guides and bus drivers are appreciated.
Tours include a full‑service backcountry meal. Sample menus vary by tour time: a morning tour lists breakfast items; later tours list lunch/dinner items and beverages, with menus changing daily.
Pickup is available at most major Denali area resorts; pickup times are normally about 20 minutes prior to the scheduled tour. The meeting location is Healy, Alaska.
Guides fit participants with helmets, safety glasses and gloves prior to departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need prior ATV experience?
No prior experience is required; the tour begins with safety training and instruction before you drive.
What should I bring with me?
Bring weather‑appropriate clothing and a valid ID for all drivers; tipping the guide and bus driver is appreciated.
Where do we meet and is pickup available?
The meeting location is Healy, Alaska; the operator will pick up at most major Denali area resorts, normally about 20 minutes prior to the tour start time.
Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes — guides will fit you with a helmet, safety glasses and gloves as part of the pre‑ride procedures.
What is served for the backcountry meal?
The tour includes a full‑service backcountry meal; menus change daily but sample items provided by the operator include options such as cornbread muffins, Alaskan bison chili, grilled salmon and fresh berry dessert for lunch/dinner, and a range of breakfast items for morning tours.
How fast do the Side by Sides go and what is the terrain like?
The outing includes rough roads and speeds reported between 5 and 25 miles per hour as you traverse valleys, streams, foothills and tundra.