Our Story
Our Story
We started Tidecrest Adventures with a simple belief: Alaska's wilderness should be experienced, respected, and preserved. We've spent countless hours exploring Sitka's hidden trails and marveling at the forest that makes our home so special. What began as weekend adventures with friends evolved into something bigger—a mission to share these incredible places with fellow nature lovers while fostering the same deep respect for the environment that drives us every day. Every guided tour we lead is an opportunity to create authentic connections between our guests and Alaska's wild beauty. We believe that when people truly experience nature's wonder, they become its greatest protectors. That's why each adventure with us isn't just about breathtaking views and unforgettable memories—it's about inspiring conservation for future generations. Join us and discover why Sitka's wilderness has captured our hearts and will surely capture yours.
Our Mission
At Tidecrest Adventures, we believe the best way to inspire conservation is through authentic connection with nature. Our private guided hiking tours in Tongass National Forest are designed to create transformative experiences that foster deep respect for Alaska's wild beauty. We're passionate about sharing these untouched landscapes while ensuring they remain unspoiled for future generations. What sets us apart is our commitment to small-group, personalized adventures that prioritize both safety and environmental stewardship. Every step we take together builds not just unforgettable memories, but lasting advocates for wilderness preservation. When you explore with us, you're not just witnessing Alaska's breathtaking beauty—you're becoming part of its protection story.
Our Team
Olga
Olga (Ollie) is the owner and primary guide of Tidecrest Adventures. She has called Sitka home since 2008 and knows these trails like the back of her hand. A Wilderness First Responder and lifelong adventurer, she has shared the beauty of Sitka with friends, family, and now visitors for years – helping everyone enjoy the outdoors safely and at their own pace. Her approach is adventurous, encouraging, and adaptable, making sure every hike is exactly the experience you’re looking for. When she’s not guiding, you’ll find her trail running, camping, or reading. Passionate about protecting the environment, she runs every hike with Leave No Trace mindset while making sure each experience is fun, memorable, and adventurous.
Dave
Dave is an assistant guide at Tidecrest Adventures. Born and raised in Sitka, he grew up exploring the Tongass National Forest and knows the local trails as only a lifelong Sitka resident could. A Wilderness First Responder and CPR/First Aid instructor, Dave brings years of experience keeping people safe and comfortable in outdoor adventures. His approach is friendly, encouraging, and safety-focused, making him a trusted companion on every hike. When he’s not guiding, you’ll find him playing darts, scuba diving in Alaskan waters, or chasing new adventures around the world – from Kilimanjaro to the Inca Trail to the Alps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about your Sitka hiking adventure. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you still have questions.
Absolutely! Our private tours are designed with cruise guests in mind. We'll coordinate with you ahead of time to customize the experience around your ship's schedule, your interests, and your activity level, and we guarantee you'll return to your ship with plenty of time before departure.
All our tours are private and personalized designed for small groups of 1-6 people! Your group size is entirely up to you - whether it's a romantic couple's adventure, family expedition, or small group of friends; we never combine unrelated parties – your guided experience is completely yours. This ensures personalized attention, flexible pacing, and the intimate wilderness experience that makes Sitka's temperate rainforest truly magical.
All of our hikes are operated as exclusive private tours. Because you are reserving a professional guide and vehicle solely for your group, we use tiered private-tour pricing rather than per-person ticketing. Our base rate covers one to two guests, which reflects the minimum cost to operate a private excursion. Additional participants may be added at a reduced rate. This structure ensures transparent pricing, high-quality service, and truly personalized hiking experience.
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome to book a tour. All hikes are private, so your group will never be combined with others. Our pricing is based on a two-person minimum rate, which means the cost is the same whether your group has one or two participants.
We offer half-day hikes ranging from 2-4 hours and full-day hikes that can last up to 6-8 hours, depending on the trail and your group’s preferences.
The recommended minimum age for our hikes is 8 years old. Children must be accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian. Guests who are 17 years old may participate with written permission from a parent of guardian, while participants 18 and older are welcome to join on their own.
Younger children may be accommodated on some tours depending on the hike. If you are planning to bring a younger child, please feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to discuss the best options for your group.
Booking is simple! Please fill out the form on the Contact page and we can discuss your preferred tour and dates, customizing your perfect Sitka hiking experience. We'll work with you to select the best trails based on your interests and fitness level.
Summer in Sitka is the busiest season, so we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred date and time. Last-minute booking may be available depending on availability.
Full payment is required at the time of booking to reserve your private tour. Because we offer small, private experiences with limited availability, your reservation is confirmed once payment is received.
Yes! We understand plans can change. For a full refund, please cancel at least 7 days before your scheduled hike. If you cancel 3-6 days in advance, we offer 50% refund. You may reschedule your hike during this time if space is available. Cancellations within 2 days or less before your hike, or no-shows, are non-refundable, as private tours cannot easily be filled. If we need to cancel due to weather or safety concerns, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule. (We are not responsible for cruise delays or missed port calls; last-minute cancellations due to these events are considered non-refundable. However, we will work with you to reschedule your tour if possible.)
Generally, yes. Our hikes are designed for reasonably fit individuals. We’ll customize each tour to your group’s experience and fitness level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for all participants.
Our private tours are customized to your fitness level and hiking experience! Whether you're a beginner wanting gentle rainforest walks or an experienced hiker seeking challenging alpine terrain, we'll design the perfect adventure. We can discuss your comfort level when booking to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Alaska weather can be unpredictable. We monitor conditions closely and may adjust the route or reschedule if necessary to ensure safety. Your safety is our top priority.
Wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes with good traction, dress in layers for Alaska's changing weather, and bring a waterproof jacket. We'll share detailed packing recommendations when you book. We provide water, snacks, and hiking poles for your adventure with us!
Yes! Our tours are led by experienced guides. Both guides are CPR certified, Wilderness First Responder certified, and trained in the use of epinephrine injectors. Safety is our top priority, and we are prepared to handle emergencies so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
Your safety is our top priority. The guides carry cell phones, satellite phones, and first aid kits on every hike. We hike only on established trails that we know well, and we monitor weather and trail conditions closely, cancelling or rescheduling if anything could affect safety.
We are experienced in the local wilderness, including wildlife encounters, and carry bear spray as an added precaution. Before each hike, we brief all guests on safety procedures and best practices to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe. Our goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable adventure while respecting the natural environment.
Yes! Both Ollie and Dave are certified Wilderness First Responders and carry fully equipped medical kits on every hike. We’re trained to provide immediate care and handle emergencies, so you can relax and enjoy your adventure knowing you’re in safe hands.
While wildlife is never guaranteed, Sitka’s trails are full of life. You can expect to see forest birds and eagles, and on some hikes, fish in the streams. If you’re lucky, you might spot deer or even a bear – every hike offers its own unique chance to experience Alaska’s wildlife.
Yes! Ollie is a certified Leave No Trace Instructor, and all of our tours follow Leave No Trace principles. Before each hike, we provide a brief orientation on how to enjoy the trails responsibly. We stay on established paths, minimize impact on plants and wildlife, and encourage guests to respect the environment while having fun.
We do not allow pets on our hikes. Many trails pass through sensitive habitats and areas with wildlife, and we want to ensure everyone on the tour stays safe and enjoys the experience. We love pets too, but this policy helps us protect the environment and provide the best experience for our guests.
Yes! We offer convenient pick-up and drop-off at your preferred location, so you can focus on enjoying your hike without any transportation worries.
Your adventure begins the moment we pick you up! We’ll meet you at your preferred location – cruise ship, hotel, or another spot – and bring you directly to the trail.
Yes, all of our hikes have parking available at the trailhead. Space can be limited during the busy summer season, so we recommend arriving early if you plan to drive yourself. If you prefer, we’re happy to pick you up from a convenient location.
Your tour includes a certified guide, convenient pick-up and drop-off, snacks, extra water, hiking poles, and a safe enjoyable experience exploring Sitka’s trails and wildlife. We provide all guidance, safety equipment, and local expertise so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.
All tours include snacks. We provide a mix of sweet, savory, and protein options, and we always accommodate dietary needs when requested. Water is also provided, so you can focus on enjoying your hike without worrying about refreshments.
Most of the trails we visit do not have restrooms along the way. Some trails have facilities near the trailhead or partway through the hike. On the backcountry sections, we follow Leave No Trace principles to manage human waste safely and responsibly, ensuring the trails and wilderness remain pristine for everyone.